Lymphedema and Travel

If you have had surgery that affected your lymph nodes, traveling might be a worry  Traveling can cause stress on your body, especially if you're at risk for swelling. The extra pressure on your lymph system can cause swelling that might last a long time or  be permanent. While it's important to take steps to stay safe while flying, you don't need to avoid traveling just because you're worried. Recent studies suggest that flying may not cause problems for people with lymphedema.

Traveling itself can be stressful because of things like:

• Rushing to catch your plane or train.
• Being bumped by people in a crowd.
• Lifting, pulling, or pushing heavy bags.
• Changes in weather or air pressure.
• Risk of getting sick.

Managing Stress, Lymphedema, and Travel

Avoid Injury to Your Affected Body Part

• Be careful not to bump the arm or leg at risk of lymphedema.
• Use lightweight suitcases with wheels and avoid lifting heavy bags.
• Ask for help with your bags.
• Use your unaffected arm to carry your bags if you can.
• Wear comfortable and loose clothing.

Avoid Staying Still for Too Long

• Move around and stretch when you can.
• While traveling, do exercises like shoulder rolls, elbow bends, wrist rotations, knee bends, and ankle rotations.

Avoid Infection

• Bring a backup prescription for antibiotics.
• Carry hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.
•  Wash your hands as much as possible.
• Cover any cuts or wounds with bandages.
• Wear sunscreen (even under compression garments).
• Use insect repellent and anti-fungal powder between your toes and in skin folds.
• Get any needed vaccinations in your unaffected arm.
• Keep your feet covered, especially on the beach.

Air Travel and Lymphedema

• For those at risk for developing lymphedema, it is recommended that you take the above precautions and discuss further concerns with your therapist or provider.
• For those with episodic swelling, it is recommended that you wear a compression sleeve or stocking when taking any airplane flights or increasing altitude above 8000 feet. Speak with your therapist regarding specific recommendations.
• For those with chronic lymphedema, it is recommended that you apply compression bandaging for all air travel. Bandages should be applied before air travel and should remain on for 1-2 hours after reaching your destination. If this is not possible, it is acceptable to wear a compression sleeve or stocking fit by a certified fitter. A trained therapist or certified fitter at a surgical supply or durable medical equipment provider can fit you with an appropriate garment. It is important that the compression not be too high; contact a trained professional to fit you with an appropriate compression sleeve or stocking.
• Use a compression garment that is in good condition- if you wear a garment you MUST use a gauntlet or glove as well. Wearing just a sleeve may cause hand swelling.
• Carry a backup garment.

If you plan on traveling and have any concerns, you should consult with your therapist or provider.

Next Article: FAQs About Lymphedema Garments and Bandaging »