Flying when you suffer from APS.

[jagessar]

I was diagnosed with APS twelve years ago after a severe stroke.I am taking Warfarin for life and have my INR checked regularly. All is fine but I have avoided flying anywhere up to now.It will be necessary to make a short flight later on this year and I have a irrational reservation about this due to this Syndrome.I am prepared to keep hydrated and to check my INR prior the flight and intend to discuss the situation with my specialist but I don't know what information I have come across to make me feel that even on a short flight and being within the correct range,I would still be at high risk for clotting! I would be very grateful to know about other APS patients who have flown with or without any coagulation problems. Thank you.

[jagessar]

Thank you for your quick reply APsnotFab. As much as I take on board all the medical theory,it is always helpful to consider the experiences of others who have APS which has resulted in a stroke. I have made a good recovery from my stroke so I have no concerns regarding that.I find that your flying experience has put my planned short flight into perspective! My GP has no reservations and I am pretty sure that my Specialist will have the same opinion when I go for my annual check up. I don't know why I had a unsupported suspicion that my INR could be compromised under certain flying conditions maybe I have thought about it too much!Take care.

[Manofmendip]

Hi

I agree with my colleague APsnotFab and I have made several flights on Warfarin and also since I've been on Fragmin shots instead.

Dave

[CormorantWatcher]

I've made dozens of flights, the clearance from the doctor being that I am in range immediately before flying and if it's a long trip away, to arrange for a test there to ensure in range before return.

This caused issues on my trip to the ststes, as you can't just walk into a hospital. Similarly a holiday to Italy caused a comedy of sorts in presented a pre-prepared letter from out hotel owner asking for the test...

[jagessar in reply to CormorantWatcher]

Thank you CormorantWatcher,I am hoping that as I am only going away for one night,this won't apply to me but this is very relevant for any future travel.I will check out my INR prior to the short flight and make sure that I remain cosistent with my diet and exercise for the duration of the wedding I am attending.

[DebbyL]

Hello. I know for my teen son who has APS and has had clots, his doctor recommends he wear compression socks when he flies. I don't know if that's primarily due to the fact his clot was in his thigh or it's just a good way to stimulate your legs that sit idle for prolonged periods inflight. Good luck.

[jagessar in reply to DebbyL]

Thank you DebbyL.