flying and MS

[jojo2504]

G'morning. If there have been previous discussions about the connection between flying and MS symptoms/flares, would you mind providing the link? I'm new here and not yet adept ... Thanks much!

[Johnnymac]

I think it may be difficult to draw a reliable conclusion of flying causing flares....other than stress perhaps and the physical demands/heat of the airport/airplane? I know all it takes is the littlest bit of stress to make my wife's symptoms flare, and airports are very stressful places.

[Algis]

I flew a lot before being diagnosed and 'flares' happened 50% of the time. At one trip I had to request a wheelchair at landing.
I am sure stress is mostly responsible. It's your job to try to 'ease' your Beauty as much as you can before going to the airport. Give a glass of wine 'to celebrate' or something like that...?

Good luck Buddy

[globab]

i flew since diagnosis.. and didnt have a flare up....

[dlb]

I have flown several times since my diagnosis without any episodes as well, but the topic has a lot of interest to me, because hubby is looking at an Expat job which would likely involve some very long overseas trips for me as well, so I have to say this question has crossed my mind. Also Blue Cross coverage for my copaxone. Lots for us to consider right now.

[carney]

My job requires me to travel - flying at least twice a month. I developed a routine to make if work for me -
- before your trip contact the airline and ask about special accomidations. Let them know you have MS and find out what they can do for you. Some airlines give special rates to travel companions and most will offer you a preferred seat - just behind first class which is much more comfortable then being back in the pack.
- ask for an asile or exit seat for easier restroom access (because you are drinking lots of water!) and for ease of standing up and walking a bit
- get to the airport EARLY so you don't have to be stressed about traffic, ticket and security lines.
- once through security get a big bottle of water - dehydration makes flying much worse.
- take an ipod or mp3 player to drown out the chatter and hum - or just earplugs
- get one of those blow up neck pillows for comfort
- bring along your own snacks - nuts and dried fruit - airline snacks are some of the worst and usually provide not much more than sugar and salt
- also bring along reading material, puzzles, DVD player or anything else that will keep you entertained and occupied ( I take movies to watch on my laptop or rent them at the airport) .
- don't be afraid to ask for transport assistance to connecting gates or baggage claim - even if you don't have any issues with walking. Sometimes the stress of just getting through the crowds can be too much.
- If you have a long layover seek out a nice cafe or bar in the airport to relax and get out of the crowd
-make sure you have a clear plan on your arrival - someong picking you up or rental car lined up. Know were the rental car offices are and what the car pick up procedure is. Know where you are going when leaving the airport - google and print maps before leaving home and don't rely on the rental desk for directions and maps. Uncertainly and confusion on arrival can cause a quick and easy breakdown.
- decide before leaving home that the trip will be smooth and easy

Happy traveling to you all!

[carney]

Sorry I sort of went off topic diving into my flying tips but I guess that was a round about way to say I fly alot and have had no issues with my MS. I avoided air travel for the first couple of years after my diagnosis - the stress of thinking about the stress of it was too much.
I think stess avoidance and hydration are the main factors for successful flying. Takes a little more planning but it is doable.

[dlb]

Thanks Carney,

Those are all really helpful tips - I've never called the airport ahead of time to ask for any special concessions - worth a try definitely! The rest of what you say... we've pretty much done.

[ariehs]

Until I stumbled on this topic, I didn't know there was a connection at all. I was only diagnosed this past year, but I have been on plenty of flights both before and after, including at least 6 transatlantic flights. I don't find flying stressful, though. I have been flying regularly since I was only a few years old, and it is just normal to me. It's a small world, and we get around it in jets.

I think the advice above makes sense... if you're relaxed and prepared for the flight, then whatever aspect of flaring comes from stress won't get a boost from flying.

[JenniferF]

I don't recall having any trouble symptom-wise with flying this summer, other than the ordinary aches of being stuck in cattle-class for hours, etc etc.

My personal approach for managing travel-stress is to try to find a handful of young people, preferably ones who dislike each other, and try to get them across country to attend a wedding. If possible, bring at least one biter, one spitter, one nose-picker, and one who uses a really, really whiny voice. Spend three weeks staying on the living room floors of various relatives, with these young people as your responsibility. If possible, it should be 110 degrees out, and no yard to play in anyway.

If you arrange your trip this way, you'll hardly notice the whole "flying" thing. : - ).

[But seriously, again: No symptom issues for me that I recall. Then again, I may have suppressed the memories.]

Jen.

[carney]

Too Funny Jennifer!

[jojo2504]

Thank you for your advice and feedback!

[SandyK]

JenniferF...If you arrange your trip this way, you'll hardly notice the whole "flying" thing. : - ).

That was hilarious! Thanks for that.