Flying and LE

Options
sunflowerE152
sunflowerE152 Member Posts: 83
edited June 2014 in Lymphedema

I developed a mild case of LE (swelling in my hand mostly) after my mx a year ago.  I have since had DIEP and it got a little worse to begin with, but since it turned cool, it is better.  In fact, I cannot tell a difference with my sleeve and glove, so I have not been wearing them except when I do heavy labor.

I am flying for the first time this week.  What precautions should I take?  I will wear my sleeve and glove - anything else? 

 I truly appreciate those of you who hang out here and give advise.  Without this board, I probably would not have gotten the treatment I needed and would have had a much worse case.

· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • crystalphm
    crystalphm Member Posts: 1,138
    edited November 2011

    Good for you for taking precautions, yes, absolutely wear your sleeve and glove, and if it is a long flight, I stretched my arms above my head quite a few times. Move around.

    Also, stay hydrated! I am not an expert here, but lymph moves easier when we drink well and stay hydrated, and planes can be so drying.

    I am also careful to wear my sleeve and glove if I have to be pulling my suitcase with that arm...

    Good luck!

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • kira66715
    kira66715 Member Posts: 4,681
    edited November 2011

    Just to add to Crytal's excellent advice, here is the position paper from the NLN on flying--it's on the page and opens as a pdf:

    http://www.lymphnet.org/lymphedemaFAQs/positionPapers.htm

    Air travel presents several considerations for individuals with lymphedema and for those at risk for
    lymphedema. It is the position of the National Lymphedema Network that:

    Individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of lymphedema should wear some form of compression therapy while traveling by air.


    As Crystal said, hydrate, pump your fists, move around and you can put the sleeve/glove on at the gate, but should wear them for an hour after you land.

    Have a great trip!

    Kira

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories