My First Flight... Any Tips?

[sarahm]

Next week I am taking my first flight since I got sick. If you have any helpful tips or positive feedback I would love to hear it. No horror stories please!!

[ophelialit]

Hi there! If you search the forum, you'll find tons of threads on this subject as it's one that can cause quite a bit of anxiety in us POTSIES. I fly frequently for work (blah!), and here are some tips I've accumulated over the years:

* Hydrate! Before, during and after the flight--I can't stress this one enough!

* Allow yourself plenty of time so that you're aren't rushed while parking, checking luggage, waiting in the security line, etc.

* If you have a heavy bag that needs to go in the overhead bin, allow someone else to put it in there for you--I don't know about you, but lifting heavy things over my head sometimes results in major dizziness.

* Try to snag an aisle seat--preferably in bulkhead or an exit row---extra room means extra space to stretch out, less pooling in the lower extremities and fewer claustrophobic feelings. If you can't reserve one of those seats when you book the flight (or if they try to charge you), wait until you get to the gate and NICELY ask the gate agents--they'll often make the switch for free!

* iPods and in-flight entertainment are lifesavers when it comes to distracting you from the length of the flight--most airlines now offer wi-fi so you can use your laptop, iPad, etc. Delta utilizes "Go-Go" wifi, and you can get 15-minute increments for free.

That's all I can think of for now, but that strategy has gotten me through more flights than I care to remember--so kick back, try to relax and enjoy the flight! Tiny bags of peanuts for everyone!

[corina]

I'd like to add wearing compression hose as that's what my doc advized me (not sure if you have/need them, but if so that could be of help!). You could also take an empty water bottle with you and fill it after security (Issie thought of that one and I love it!). Good luck o your trip!

[sarahm]

Great thanks for the tips.

[DoozlyGirl]

If you have a connecting flight, you can arrange for a wheelchair escort to get you around the airport. I flew Delta last month and I am so glad I arranged for the wheelchair. That was a first for me and I thought I'd feel funny about it, but it was fine. This way I didn't have to rush to my next gate, and i could save my energy for other things. The wheelchair escorts even offered to stop to a restroom or store if needed. I was also surprised that the gate agents moved my seat on each of my travel legs, moving me closer to the front of the plane, into preferred seating rows and I didn't have to pay extra. I didn't have to ask for this.

I also wore compression garments (spanks), drank lots of water, and had salty snacks on hand, which helps keep my BP up. When traveling, I always wear slip on shoes so I can clear security faster and slip them off during the flight if needed, as well as wear layers in case my temperature varies throughout the flight. I kept my meds and other aids in a carry on I kept with me at all times. I choose the window seat, so I can lean into the window to sleep.

Safe travels,

Lyn

[sarahm]

Lyn, Yes I did arrange for a wheelchair. Im glad you found it worth your while. I didn't think I would be able to wait in the security lines without one if they were long. I was in a wheelchair for a while when I first got sick so I don't feel weird about doing that.

[mully2014]

You can have your doctor sign a sheet saying that you need an aisle seat for your flight, that is what we did. The hardest part for my condition was my body adjusting to the ascent and descent (mostly when we were going up though). I hope it goes well! Good luck!