Has anyone done any flying with Chiari? Fiance and I were discussing a trip in May to see the girls and he was concerned what the higher altitude would do to my head. I have not done any research on this yet, so would appreciate any feedback.
Hi Rese!
From what I've been told my doctors, flying can be a problem. I've avoided flying when I've travelled, taking the train instead. However, as cabins are 'pressurized', this would not normally be too much of a problem. But, if the cabin were to lose pressure (fairly rare I think) or, more problematically, hit air pockets or lose altitude, that could potentially cause problems with 'intra-cranial pressure' and Chiari. Really anything that rocks, falls quickly, or creates a pressure change can be a problem -- I had to stop roller coasters which I loved (lol). So, I think it's fine to take the plane but they are a few potential risks as I've outlined.
I have traveled many times, frequently very long distances, by airplane before and after surgery and never had a problem. Others may have a different exoerience.
Rese,
I personally have Chiari with Hydrocephauls, airplanes are a hit and miss with me. If I travel around my female cycle it makes it worse. (Our interIntercranial pressure incresses during that time).
I know my NS has told me to take a strong decongestent, and it helps. Others have been given meds to decrease CSF, but they have gone through all the neasary testing and they are flying in for surgery.
Bea
I have had issues with dizziness and equilibrium problems and now know to always take Dramamine with me and it does help.
I have a hard time riding in a car anywhere. The slightest bump and I'm aggravated. Plus any fast stops make me dizzy. Leo tries really hard to be careful, but some things just cannot be avoided. I cannot imagine a 2 day trip to Florida in a car. I try to avoid driving myself because I do get dizzy just driving around the Walmart parking lot sometimes. Thanks for the input. I will still ask the doc, but it's nice to see several people who have been able to fly.
I was a flight attendant for 10 years and didn't have issues with my chiari. I had issues with my ears and sinuses, but when I travel now I always carry a decongestant and Afrin.
I flew right before I was diagnosed and I remember having issues. Still not sure if they were chiari’s related but I’m pretty sure they were. But now that I’ve had surgery I think I’m fine. Have you had the surgery?
I have not had surgery. I'm just beginning the whole process. One of my tasks today is to research surgeons. Not sure I want to mess with the neurologist.
Hey Rese I flew in December and flying did not aggravate my symptoms. It was tiring going thru the airport tho. Staying hydrated may help and I ordered some ear plugs I read about on a website. I t may have been on this site…I think they are called flight mates. I have an extra unused pair (they come in pack of two) I’ll bring them next time I get to see you!
Aside form the actual flying which may or may not be a problem physically as some have noted, the whole process can be a problem.Crowds, lines, getting bumped, boarding etc. While some of the need can be taken care of at the counter during check in. To arrange special assistance it's best to give a quick call to the airline directly and ask them to add an APFAX to your reservation. An APFAX is simply a note requesting the golf cart or a wheelchair if the cart isn't available, early boarding assistance through security etc. Don't worry, its very common. Once the file is noted, things go pretty quickly when you check in. You won't need to answer questions or provide "proof' with the airline just tell then your needs (ADA won't let them ask) Be sure and face forward on the cart ride.........
I have flown many times. Sometimes no problem and other times I have side effects. I also lived at 8,000 ft with constant symptoms. Moved to sea level for the winter with so much improvement I’m afraid to go back home. I am not symptom free here but, no headaches, vertigo, vomiting, light sensitivity on and on.
When I flew living in Colorado symptoms were worse flying. Flying out of South Carolina, whatever is in check stays in check. Neck pain, ringing in ears, pain in joints and back I can deal with.
I have slowed my life down in so many ways to take most types of stress off my body and went to a GF diet. So far so good. Hope this helps.