Air Travel With Cancer
Flying with cancer can sometimes have significant benefits.
In some cases, people may need to fly to the cancer center where they will be treated.
In general, any incisions should be well healed and any drains removed.
Erik Witsoe / EyeEm / Getty Images
TSA recommends calling their helpline 72 hours before travel to discuss the screening process.
Medications and Medical Devices
Many people with cancer will need to travel with medications or medical devices.
Oral Medications
Carry all medications on board in a carry-on rather than checking them with your luggage.
This includes any medications you use for side effects such as anti-nausea drugs or pain medications.
Keep all medications in their original containers.
If this is an issue, talk with the pharmacist responsible for prescribing your medications.
It’s also very important to double-check that your medication is legal in the countries you are visiting.
For example, drugs containing pseudoephedrine (such as Sudafed) are illegal in Japan.
Amphetamines such as Adderall are illegal in Japan and Saudi Arabia.
Narcotics may be illegal or restricted, for example, codeine is illegal in Greece and Hong Kong.
This is true for CBD oil as well.
While the TSA does not search for marijuana, if detected they defer to local law enforcement.
People with cancer should not travel with medical marijuana outside of the United States.
In some cases, a pat down may be required.
it’s possible for you to request a private screening if you would like.
Getting Around in the Airport and Boarding
Most airports provide transportation services beyond the security checkpoint.
Check with the airports you will be visiting to see what services are available.
Advance Seating
Airlines usually announce advance seating for people with disabilities along with first class passengers.
If you need assistance with boarding, this option may be helpful.
Prolonged sitting raises the risk of developing blood clots.
Cancer treatments such as surgery and chemotherapyincrease the risks further.
Oxygen levels may be lower than this on small planes.
For those who are healthy, the body accommodates to this lower oxygen saturation quite well.
Talk to a healthcare provider before flying.
They may be able to make recommendations or offer tests to determine if you will require oxygen in flight.
While commercial airliners carry oxygen, this is reserved for emergencies.
Traveling With Oxygen
Some airlinesbut not allallow portable oxygen to be carried on board the aircraft.
The FAA requires that the battery time is 150% of your cumulative flight times.
For this reason, healthcare providers recommend not flying for a period of time after certain procedures.
Most people with brain tumors can travel by air safely, though symptoms may worsen.
In some cases, oncologists may recommend steroids or anti-seizure drugs prior to flying.
Changes in air pressure can also cause swelling in the hands and feet.
This risk drops to less than 3% for those further away.
Wearing a mask is also an option.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations may be required for travel to certain regions of the world.
In contrast, some immunizations may be recommended, such as the injectable flu vaccine.
Others offer services in addition to reimbursing your ticket cost, such as emergency medical care at your destination.
check that to read the fine print.
If you are traveling by air for treatment, you may be able to get some assistance.
Several organizations provide free air travel for those with cancer who need to travel for medical treatment.
Remember that flying is only one part of your journey.
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