Flying Home After Surgery

[AStephenson 159]

I will have a 7 1/2 hour flight home (two connecting flights with hour layover in between) and am worried about blood clots as I am at increased risk for them due to my varicose veins. I will be wearing compression hose but have NEVER flown before and am wondering if I will be able to get up and move around any while on the plane or will I be stuck in my seat??

I had myself convinced I would be okay but my SIL just told me today about some story she had seen on CNN about a lady traveling home on a plane after surgery somewhere and she died of a pulmonary embolism

[JerseyGirl68 1,172]

Tell the doctor of your fears, maybe he can give you a heprin shot before leaving the hospital. Also talk to the flight attendant and explain you just had surgery and your concerns. They might be more willing to let you stand, walk. Even talk to the attendant when you check in, you might be able to get a bulkhead seat with more leg room to help you out. Good luck!

[AStephenson 159]

Thank you JerseyGirl..I had thought about asking the airline about it when I booked my flight, I will be given heparin and the stockings for the flight home as well. I'm nervous enough about flying and the added thought of doing it again after major surgery and with an increased risk of clots..well, just want to do everything I can to help prevent them!

[julielle 199]

You can get up and walk, as long as the seatbelt sign isn't on. They turn it on during turbulence for your safety.

[JerseyGirl68 1,172]

Thank you JerseyGirl..I had thought about asking the airline about it when I booked my flight, I will be given heparin and the stockings for the flight home as well. I'm nervous enough about flying and the added thought of doing it again after major surgery and with an increased risk of clots..well, just want to do everything I can to help prevent them!

Good luck and Happy Thanksgiving!