Stroke Patients: Flying Safely After A Brain Attack

is flying safe for stroke patients

Flying after a stroke is a common concern for stroke survivors. While it is generally considered safe for people to fly after a stroke, there are several factors to consider, such as the type of stroke, the time since the stroke, and individual risk factors. Medical professionals recommend waiting for a period of time before flying to ensure safety and prevent the risk of a second stroke, which is highest in the weeks after the initial stroke. During this period, stroke survivors may experience new medical conditions or require ongoing medical care and therapy.

Characteristics Values
How long after a stroke can I fly? The Stroke Association recommends waiting at least two weeks after a stroke before flying. The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests waiting until you are stable and recovered enough. Most airlines advise against flying until 10 days after a TIA or 21 days after a stroke. Some airlines recommend waiting three months after a stroke if you have residual symptoms.
What medical conditions make flying unsafe? Hypercoagulability, patent foramen ovale, paradoxical embolism, and uncontrolled high blood pressure can make flying unsafe.
Does flying increase my risk of another stroke? Flying increases your body's tendency to form clots, which can lead to ischemic stroke. The risk of developing a blood clot increases during and after air travel. However, the incidence of stroke while flying is low.
What happens in the worst-case scenario? If you experience a stroke on a plane, the pilot may attempt an emergency landing to get you to the nearest medical facility.
How can I prepare for safe air travel after a stroke? Get medical clearance from your doctor, contact the airline for special assistance, travel with a companion, get travel insurance, keep medication in your carry-on bag, give yourself extra time at the airport, wear compression socks, and move around during the flight.

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How long after a stroke can I fly?

It's understandable that stroke survivors and their families may worry about the safety of flying after a stroke. While it is ultimately up to your doctor to decide if and when it is safe for you to fly, there are some general guidelines and precautions you can follow to ensure safety and increase peace of mind.

Guidelines for Flying After a Stroke

According to the Stroke Association, it is best to wait at least two weeks to fly following a stroke. This is because individuals are at an increased risk of a second stroke after suffering a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. During this time, it is advisable to be close to emergency medical interventions that can reverse the effects of a stroke, such as the administration of medications. Additionally, new post-stroke medical conditions may arise within a few months of the initial stroke, so it is best to remain near your medical providers. If your travel plans are flexible, waiting 1-3 months to travel after a stroke is ideal.

Risks of Flying After a Stroke

There are several risks and complications that can accompany flying after a stroke. These include:

  • Hypercoagulability (Excessive Blood Clotting): Flying increases the tendency for blood to form clots, which can lead to ischemic stroke when an artery in the brain becomes blocked. Long flights can elevate clot risk by 26%. Inactivity in cramped spaces can also lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), where a blood clot forms in the leg.
  • Reduced Oxygen Levels: Lower air pressure on a plane means less oxygen is available to the body and brain. While this may not pose a risk for stroke survivors, it can be an issue for those with breathing difficulties or heart conditions.
  • Delayed Medical Treatment: In the event of a stroke on a plane, emergency medical attention may be delayed, and certain interventions for stroke, such as tissue plasminogen activator (TPA), must be administered promptly.

Tips for Flying After a Stroke

If you have been cleared to fly after a stroke, here are some tips to improve your safety and well-being:

  • Contact the airline to arrange special assistance, such as vision or hearing assistance, wheelchair service, or mobility and medical device transport.
  • Travel with a companion if possible, for added peace of mind and assistance.
  • Obtain travel insurance to protect your trip and ensure coverage for medical care abroad.
  • Allow extra time to get through security and reach your terminal, and rest when needed.
  • Keep medication in your carry-on bag and ensure you have enough for your entire trip.
  • Carry medical documentation and declare medication upon arrival in a new country to avoid confiscation.
  • Wear compression socks to improve circulation and prevent blood clots.
  • Stay hydrated, avoid excessive salty snacks, and be mindful of your diet to maintain healthy blood pressure.

While flying after a stroke can be safe with proper planning and precautions, it is important to consult your medical team and carefully consider the risks involved.

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What precautions should I take before flying?

Flying can be safe for stroke patients, but it is important to take certain precautions to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Here are some essential precautions to consider before flying:

  • Get Medical Clearance: Before booking your flight, consult your doctor to ensure that your health is stable enough for air travel. Your doctor will evaluate your condition, consider the type of stroke you had, and advise you on any necessary precautions or restrictions. It is generally recommended to wait for at least two weeks after a stroke before flying, and in some cases, it may be advised to wait several months.
  • Understand the Risks: Be aware of the potential risks associated with flying after a stroke. These include the formation of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or DVT) due to immobility during long flights, reduced oxygen levels in the plane, and delayed access to medical treatment in case of an emergency. Discuss these risks with your doctor and follow their recommendations to mitigate them.
  • Arrange Special Assistance: Contact your airline in advance to request special assistance if needed. This may include wheelchair services, mobility assistance, or medical device transport. Airports also have assistance points to help you navigate the airport if needed.
  • Travel with a Companion: Consider travelling with a companion or professional assistant. This can provide peace of mind and ensure that someone is there to assist you if needed. Inform your companion about your medical history, requirements, and how to respond in an emergency.
  • Allow Extra Time: Give yourself plenty of time when travelling. Arrive at the airport early, allow extra time for security and boarding, and factor in rest breaks when creating your travel itinerary. This will help reduce stress and make your journey more comfortable.
  • Keep Medication Accessible: Always keep your medication in your carry-on bag, ensuring easy access during the flight. Bring enough medication for your entire trip, and be sure to declare your medication upon arrival at your destination, following the specific requirements of the country.
  • Wear Compression Stockings: Compression socks or stockings are recommended to improve circulation in your legs and prevent blood clots. Choose stockings that provide adequate compression, typically in the range of 20-30mmHg.
  • Stay Hydrated and Avoid Dehydrating Drinks: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration and increase the risk of blood clot formation.
  • Move Around and Perform Leg Exercises: During the flight, get up and walk around the cabin when it is safe to do so. If you are unable to walk, perform leg exercises while seated, such as marching in place, extending your knees, or pumping your ankles. Movement helps prevent blood clotting.
  • Limit Salty Snacks: Avoid consuming excessive salty or fried foods while travelling, as they can increase blood pressure and cause fluid retention.
  • Obtain Travel Insurance: Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers pre-existing medical conditions, including your history of stroke. Ensure that your insurers are aware of your medical history to avoid any issues with claims.
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What are the risks of flying after a stroke?

Flying after a stroke is a common concern for stroke survivors. While the incidence of a stroke during a commercial flight is low, there are still some risks to be aware of. Here are some of the key risks to consider:

Hypercoagulability (Excessive Blood Clotting)

Flying increases the risk of blood clot formation, which is already elevated after a stroke. Research shows that long flights can increase the risk of blood clots by 26%. Inactivity in cramped spaces can lead to blood clots developing in the legs, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If a blood clot breaks loose, it can travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism, or to the brain, leading to another stroke.

Reduced Oxygen Levels

The lower air pressure in an aircraft cabin means there is less oxygen available to the body, including the brain. While this may not pose a significant risk to stroke survivors, it can be a concern for those with breathing difficulties or heart conditions. It is essential to consult a doctor to assess the risks.

Delayed Medical Treatment

In the event of a stroke on a plane, emergency medical attention may be delayed. Although emergency landings can save lives, the time required to receive appropriate treatment may be prolonged. Some stroke treatments, such as tissue plasminogen activator (TPA), must be administered promptly, which is why doctors recommend waiting for a certain period after a stroke before flying.

Practical Challenges

Stroke survivors may face practical challenges when flying, such as impaired speech, vision changes, and difficulty walking, which can make navigating an airport and communicating with others difficult. Deficits in spatial perception can increase the risk of getting lost, and coordination problems can make walking long distances through the airport challenging. As a result, many stroke survivors may benefit from travelling with a companion or professional assistance.

Overall, while the risk of a stroke during a flight is low, stroke survivors should carefully consider the potential risks and consult their medical team before flying. It is crucial to follow the advice of healthcare professionals to ensure a safe travel experience.

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What are the signs that I am ready to fly?

Flying after a stroke is a common concern for stroke survivors. The signs that you are ready to fly include:

  • You have waited at least two weeks after your stroke: The Stroke Association recommends waiting at least two weeks before flying, as this is when your problems are likely to be most severe and there is an increased risk of a second stroke. In the most severe cases, it is recommended to wait up to three months.
  • Your doctor has cleared you to fly: Every stroke is different, so getting clearance from your doctor is important. They can determine if you are medically stable enough to fly.
  • You have considered the risks: Flying can increase the risk of blood clots, especially for those with hypercoagulability (excessive blood clotting). It can also lead to reduced oxygen levels and delayed medical treatment in an emergency. Understanding these risks can help you make an informed decision about whether to fly.
  • You have taken necessary precautions: This includes allowing extra time, keeping medication accessible, wearing compression socks, and travelling with a companion if possible.
  • You have checked with your airline: Different airlines may have different policies and guidelines regarding flying after a stroke. It is important to check their website or contact their helpline to ensure you are following their protocols.

Overall, the decision to fly after a stroke depends on your individual circumstances and should be made in consultation with your doctor.

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What should I do if I need to fly urgently after a stroke?

If you need to fly urgently after a stroke, there are several things you should do to ensure your safety.

First, consult your doctor to get medical clearance. It is important to get individual advice from a medical professional about the risks of travelling after a stroke, as every stroke is different. Your doctor will be able to determine if you are medically stable enough to fly.

If your doctor clears you for travel, be sure to take the following precautions:

  • Keep your medication in your carry-on bag so that it is easily accessible. Also, ensure you have enough medication for your entire trip.
  • Carry medical documentation and ensure you have the necessary paperwork for your medication when travelling to a new country.
  • Wear compression socks to improve circulation and prevent blood clots from forming in your legs.
  • Stay hydrated and avoid excessive salty snacks to maintain healthy blood pressure.
  • Get up and walk around the cabin when possible, or perform leg exercises while seated to prevent blood clots.
  • Allow yourself extra time at the airport and when navigating security to reduce stress.
  • Consider travelling with a companion who can assist you if needed.
  • Contact the airline in advance to arrange any special assistance you may require.
  • Get travel insurance to protect your trip in case of any unforeseen issues or medical emergencies.

Additionally, be aware that most airlines will not carry passengers within a few days of a stroke, so it is important to check the specific policies of your airline before booking your flight.

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Frequently asked questions

The Stroke Association recommends waiting for at least two weeks before flying, as the risk of a second stroke is highest in the weeks after the initial stroke. However, there is no formal medical guidance on how long to wait, and the recovery timeline varies for everyone. Consult with your doctor to get individual advice.

Before flying, consult your doctor to ensure you are fit to travel and discuss any specific health requirements. Keep your medication in your carry-on bag and declare it upon arrival. Stay well-hydrated and avoid salty snacks. Wear compression socks to improve circulation and prevent blood clots.

Flying increases the risk of blood clots, especially during long-distance flights. The reduced oxygen levels on a plane can trigger arrhythmia or changes in blood pressure in those with cardiovascular conditions. Delayed medical treatment during a stroke on a plane is also a concern.

Allow extra time at the airport, book extra legroom, and stay hydrated. Travel with a companion if possible, and consider hiring a medical professional to fly with you. Contact the airline in advance to arrange special assistance and discuss any requirements.

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