If you live with lymphedema, or you’ve been told you’re at risk for developing it, getting ready for a flight may come with a few extra questions.
Will the change in cabin pressure make swelling worse? Should you wear compression? What about a long flight when you’ll be sitting for hours?
The good news is that having lymphedema doesn’t automatically mean you need to give up air travel. But a little planning can help you stay more comfortable and manage swelling while you’re away.
Does Flying Actually Make Lymphedema Worse?
There’s a long-standing belief that changes in cabin pressure can trigger or worsen lymphedema. However, current evidence doesn’t show that flying itself causes lymphedema, even in people who may already be at risk.
That doesn’t mean you won’t notice changes during or after a flight.
Sitting still for several hours can contribute to fluid pooling and temporary swelling, even in people who don’t have lymphedema. If your lymphatic system is already compromised, you may be more aware of those changes.
Long-haul flights may be especially challenging simply because they involve more time sitting in one position.
Rather than being afraid to fly, it can be more helpful to think about how you can support your body throughout the trip.
Keep Moving When You Can
Your lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump like your heart. Muscle movement plays an important role in helping move lymphatic fluid through the body.
Unfortunately, airplanes aren’t exactly designed for leisurely strolls.
When it’s safe to do so, getting up periodically and walking down the aisle can help break up long periods of sitting. If you can’t get up, even small movements in your seat can be useful.
Try gently:
- pumping your ankles up and down
- making ankle circles
- bending and straightening your knees
- opening and closing your hands
- rolling your shoulders
- taking slow, deep breaths
Organizations that provide lymphedema guidance commonly recommend regular movement and gentle exercise during long journeys.
An aisle seat may also make getting up and moving around a little easier.
What About Compression Garments?
This is one area where advice needs to be individualized.
If you already wear a prescribed compression sleeve, stocking, or other garment for lymphedema, your lymphedema therapist or physician may recommend wearing it while you travel, particularly during a longer flight.
But if you don’t currently wear compression, a flight isn’t necessarily the time to buy a sleeve online and start experimenting.
A compression garment that is the wrong size or provides inappropriate compression can create problems rather than prevent them. Breast Cancer Now specifically notes that there isn’t evidence that simply wearing a compression sleeve during a flight will prevent lymphedema from developing in someone who is only at risk.
If you’re unsure whether you need compression for travel, talk with a Certified Lymphedema Therapist or your healthcare provider before your trip.
Choose Comfortable Clothing
Vacation may be the time for cute shoes. The actual flight may not be.
Loose, comfortable clothing can help you avoid unnecessary pressure around areas that already tend to swell. Comfortable shoes are important too, since feet and ankles commonly become a little puffy during long periods of sitting.
If you have upper-body lymphedema, think about your luggage as well. A heavy shoulder bag hanging from one side may not be the most comfortable choice.
A lightweight rolling suitcase can reduce the amount you’re carrying through the airport, and a backpack may distribute weight more evenly than a one-sided bag when appropriate for your individual situation. Travel guidance for people with lymphedema also recommends avoiding unnecessary strain from heavy luggage.
Hydration Still Matters
Flying is dehydrating, and it can be tempting to avoid drinking much because nobody enjoys squeezing out of an airplane seat every hour to use the restroom.
But deliberately restricting fluids isn’t a good strategy for managing lymphedema.
Drink water regularly throughout the day and follow any fluid recommendations your healthcare provider has given you.
And, inconvenient as those bathroom trips may be, they do have one advantage: they get you out of your seat and moving.
Pay Attention to Your Skin
Skin care is an important part of managing lymphedema because areas affected by lymphedema can be more vulnerable to infection.
Travel introduces plenty of opportunities for small skin injuries such as scrapes, insect bites, sunburns and blisters from walking around in new shoes.
Pack whatever you normally use to protect and moisturize your skin, and take care of small cuts or abrasions promptly.
If you develop sudden or significant swelling, redness, warmth, pain, or symptoms that are unusual for you, don’t assume it’s simply travel-related swelling. Seek medical advice.
What If You Don’t Have Lymphedema but Are at Risk?
Maybe you’ve had lymph nodes removed or radiation as part of cancer treatment but have never developed lymphedema.
Understandably, flying for the first time afterward can feel a little intimidating.
The reassuring part is that there is currently no evidence showing that either short- or long-haul air travel causes lymphedema to develop.
You don’t necessarily need to treat your body as fragile.
Instead, focus on sensible habits: move regularly, wear comfortable clothing, stay hydrated, protect your skin and become familiar with what is normal for your body.
If you notice persistent swelling, heaviness, tightness, aching, or a change in how clothing or jewelry fits after your trip, that’s worth discussing with your healthcare provider or a lymphedema specialist.
Planning Ahead Can Make Travel Easier
Having lymphedema may mean thinking about a few things other travelers never have to consider, but it doesn’t mean you have to stay home.
Before a longer trip, check that your compression garments still fit correctly if you use them. Think about how you’ll handle movement on the plane, pack clothing that won’t feel restrictive, and make sure you have any supplies you normally use to manage your condition.
And if you’re unsure what your lymphatic system may need before or after travel, a Certified Lymphedema Therapist can help you make an individualized plan.
At The Supine Studio, we provide Manual Lymphatic Drainage and lymphedema-focused care for clients who want support managing swelling and feeling more comfortable in their bodies.
Planning a trip and wondering how to manage your lymphedema along the way?
Schedule an appointment with The Supine Studio before you pack your bags.