Lymphedema

Hi Maree,

I went to Europe last August with a stop over in Singapore with no problems at all. Wore my support sleeve on the plane , never took it off. I did my exercises and crawled up the wall near the servers area. I explained my sleeve and the exercises and had no problems with the staff - very friendly and helpful when I told them why. I flew Singapore airlines, extremely wonderful staff. I did laps around the plane doing punches and arm exertions - no swelling and Panadol took care of the pain . I think the key is to use your arm . Hope you enjoy your holiday . Bep xx

Good point Michelle, I remember my oncologist suggested the same as apparently there is an increased risk of DVT while taking Tamoxifen. 

Hi Maree,

I'm not sure if you are n Tamoxifen but my Oncologist advised me if travelling on long haul flights to stop taking Tamoxifen for 2 days prior to leaving and 2 days prior to coming home. Just as a precaution as I had a lot of leg swelling while on Paclitaxel. 

Good luck,

Michelle

Hi Maree,

I am 4 years out now, and have done 3 (long) overseas trips with no sleeve and no problems at all. We are flying to Europe in a week (via Singapore also) and apart from the compression socks, will not be using anything.  Planes are well pressurised and my MO always said it was not a worry.  Enjoy your trip!  x Michelle

I had a friend come out from Europe for a 2 month holiday with me exactly 12 months after her surgery.

She travelled 29 hours (3 planes) each way (no compressiom garments as where she comes from nor available or affoedable) and no issues so do not be too scared.

And she had little ones to worry about on the flight so not even time to do much for her self. 

Just remember to do a bit of exercise every couple od hours to keep the circulation going.

By the way if U r on Tamoxifen make sure you set alarms for tourself to take it in regular intervals - that part was her only challenge as between changing timezones it was hard to keep track when the next dose was.

And have a fantastic holiday

Jel.

Hi Maree, I wore my compression sleeve on my trip to the UK last year with no noticeable effect. I also kept up the daily massage and was careful about not carrying anything too heavy and all went well. 

Always good to get some further advice from your breast care nurse and physiotherapist for further tips but I reckon just go for it! Jane xx

Hi Maree, my right arm gives me a little trouble, however my lymphoedema nurse ordered and fitted me a sleeve for travel, as any change in atmosphere can challenge your fluid levels. It has made a great difference to me when traveling in the car. Recently we drove over Mount Hotham, and my sleeve was awesome. Well worth a visit to your breast care nurse or lymphoedema nurse / physio I reckon. Warmest wishes and hoping you have a great holiday, Trace ??????