Flying With RSD...

01-15-2009, 12:08 PM

Dear Mslday.

You have certainly shared alot of wisdom with flights. It would be no surprise to me if you are a CPO for a Major Airline.

What's your thought's on Hawaiian cruises? I realize I need to fly from S. CA. to Hawaii. My son would love for me to take him their.

He"s sixteen and loves to surf. Much Love, Roz

Pauliana · 01-15-2009, 12:15 PM

Ali,

I just wanted to wish you a wonderful trip. I've been to Vegas a couple of times,and it is a fun place to go. The Vegas airport was a connection stop for me a few times on various flights and it it is is a very nice airport..All that was before my RSD though, so I can't advise you there..

I did use to be a Travel Agent years ago, please do have your Mom request assistance and make sure the Travel Agent knows that, as well as the Airline. The front of the line is best for sure..: )

Most of all have fun! You deserve that, you are such a sweet person..

Pauliana

finz · 01-24-2009, 02:58 AM

Hi Ali,

I just noticed this thread.

My sons are 12 and 14 and I have been thinking about a trip to Vegas with them. You know that you can't go into the gambling portions of the casinos, right ? I asked what there was to do in Vegas for teens in a poker forum that I belong to. There are some good responses in this thread although there are some stupid responses like "get them a hooker" too, so please forgive the fresh responses
[ URL removed]

I hope that you have a great time !

Mslday · 01-24-2009, 12:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by buckwheat

Dear Mslday.

You have certainly shared alot of wisdom with flights. It would be no surprise to me if you are a CPO for a Major Airline.

What's your thought's on Hawaiian cruises? I realize I need to fly from S. CA. to Hawaii. My son would love for me to take him their.

He"s sixteen and loves to surf. Much Love, Roz

Hi Roz,

Not a CPO but I did used to work for major airlines. I was in management and then transferred into the training department before I was fired/retired due to my rsd.

One thing about a Hawaiian cruise is you get to see all the islands and don't have to pack and fly to each island. If you do go make sure your itinerary stops in Lahaina on Maui, not Kahalui. If you go to Kahalui you are stuck having to take tours because it is a port town and not very nice to just get off the boat and do your own thing. Some cruises may start in Kahalui Maui and that would be ok because the airport is close by. If it stops in Lahaina at least there are lots of things to do on your own. Shore excursions through the cruise line can be great too, it just depends on your budget and temperament for going with the crowd additionally they can tell you how strenuous the tour would be. My husband and I are more independent minded. On a European cruise we left the ship overnight in Italy, rented a car and drove to Sienna for a very romantic evening, the next day we drove through Tuscany to meet the ship in the next port of Livorno. It was a very memorable experience. Your 16 yr old son might well enjoy just staying put on one island and hanging at the beach with the surfers.

Personally I don't want to let RSD run my life so I do everything I can to stay in the race and manage the condition around my lifestyle choices as best I can. Travel has always been a big part of my life and I don't ever want to let RSD stop me from doing that.

Go for it and have a great time.

MsL

01-27-2009, 12:33 PM

Hello Ali

I had to fly from Michigan to Japan, before I new I had RSD, my Mom was with me,

But I had my Dr write me a note that I needed to board 1st and not wait in the long lines, and the use of a W/C they will take you right thought everything
at least here they did for me and in Japan,they took me right though everything it was so much easier , also they took all bags and my mom did not have to do anything they did it all, so that can help your mum also
also you can ask for a seat on the plain that gives you more room if you need to lay back more, there should have handicap seating on the plain,
call a head, and when you get to the air port, let them know and if you have a note from your Dr make sure you give it to them, and someone should take you right thought everything,
my flight was about 24 Hrs also, and it was not easy, on me, but if I did not have that note from my Dr, it would of been a lot worse,
I hope you have a great time there, and enjoy your trip,
so ask your Dr soon and if there are more needs you need to fly, then make sure you get your Dr to ask for everything you need, ok

take care
and have some fun there!
Peace

PS take your own pillows and a blanket if you need it, the ones on the plain are not soft and the pillows are to small,, or big enough,,

flyaway · 01-27-2009, 07:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ali12

Hi everyone,

I just wondered whether anyone has flown in an aeroplane with RSD and if so, how did you react?

My mum has booked for us all to go to Las Vegas on the 1st March for 5 days and whilst I am really looking forward to the break, I am also a bit worried about whether the flying could potentially make my RSD worse.

I have flown in an aeroplane with RSD before but it was only for 2 hours and the flight to Vegas is nearly 11 hours. I didn't react too bad to the 2 hour flight however it did make my pain worse with the turbulance and the swelling became worse also.

Just wondered whether anyone had ever flown with RSD and if so, how did you react and is there anything that I should use/try to make the flight more comfortable and to prevent flares? I am REALLY looking forward to the trip to Vegas with my mum and dad as I need a break after everything i've been through but the last thing I want is to end up in a major flare so that I can't enjoy our time there!!

Any input is greatly appreciated!

Hey Vegas Lady, I give you the first hand info--if I was at work I might be the one taking you there. most flight do not go direct to las vegas but i could be wrong--usually a connection in chicago dallas los ang or new york. Needless to say it's long but if there is a break it helps.
not k nowing where your rsd i give you the general idea and you can ask me anything other.
Window seats on international do not give you more leg room and if you say you have a disability they will not give it to you anyway.--the bulkhead also does not offer anymore room and the armrest normally do not raise either. this is important to have--if you are seated in a row with your family and get uncomfortable you can raise the armrest and and try and get more comfortableand maybe get lucky with an open seat next to one of you. as anyone you will swell--but more--do not intake anything with salt--even drinks-it is my experiece that alot of uk residents like tomato juice--don't do it--plus there is alot of sodium in airplane food--bring your own--drink alot of water--by the biggest bottle after you pass security(you cannot bring any liquids through). most crews are not allowed to refill your bottle for sanitary reason and due to the fact that fresh water supply is limited. werar shoes that are expandable and extremely comfortable(in las vegas it is quite a long distance to baggage claim--call ahead and ask for a wheel chair--trust me you want one--just make sure when you check in at THE GATE that it is on your iteniary).keep any effected areas elevated as much as possible--lets be seriuos all airlines have cut out all extra space to put in more. stick your feet in the seat back. hate to say it but they tell passengers to walk around but it drives the flight attendants crazy and they might get testy with you up and about (just being honest) if you are making a stop in another location before you get to las vegas you will be walking(are riding in a wheelchair) a long way. forgive me if some of this is out of sequence just trying to remember everything to make sure your comfortable for your trip.
most hotels have wheelchairs that they allow you to use to get to your room or whilde you gamble in /their hotel--ooops forgot--this is me--approx 45 min before landing a cool air comes into the aircraft--that is usually when you will feel more pain. when leaving Las vegas--=WHEELCHAIR--but arrive EARLY--sometimes they will only allow the wheelchair person ahead of the security linme. in las vegas that line can be over an hour long.
I hope this helps--anything else just let me know--wish I was going--but im still off work because of an accident a passenger caused--so be nice to the crew--they will treat you well

cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

flyaway!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

flyaway · 01-28-2009, 10:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mslday

HI Ali,

How exciting for you to have the opportunity to get away. I travel all the time and I have a number of tips for you that should help you manage your RSD while flying.

First it is important that your parents request ground assistance from the airline. They should request a wheelchair for you, it does not matter if you don't need to use a a wheelchair regularly or not. The airlines are well versed on how to help people with disabilities and they know how challenging it can be for people who have any type of mobility issues. This will help you to get through all the line ups and security with minimal stress. An airport agent takes you through the whole process right up the the gate. They will also pre-board you and help you get settled on board the plane. When I came home from Germany this year following my surgery I did this and it really helped me, especially upon arrival in Canada when I had to go through customs and transfer to another flight to make it back to Vancouver. Pre- boarding also helped because I didn't have to worry about my leg getting bumped by all the crowds. It's really nice to to be able to get taken to the front of the line.

It is also important to understand the physiology of flight. Once the aircraft door is closed the cabin is pressurized. An aircraft planning to cruise at 40,000ft is programmed to rise gradually from take-off to around 8,000ft in cabin pressure altitude, and to then reduce gently to match the ambient air pressure of the destination. Because of this swelling can occur, even for those without RSD, many people frequently experience bloating and swollen feet but most peoples bodies are forgiving of these abuses. Flight attendants are advised to get uniforms that are 1 size larger for this reason as well.

I always take extra anti inflammatory medication about 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time and again about 45 minutes prior to landing.

Airplanes can be very cold and drafty so if you are sensitive to cold like i am you might want to consider taking a hot water bottle (empty of course) with you in your carry on bag. Once on board you can have the flight attendant fill it with hot water for you and they are happy to help. I think in England you have lots of hot water bottles with nice soft covers. They don't use microwaves on airplanes so you can't have those types of heating pads warmed up on board.

Be sure to drink lots and of water, at least 1 full glass per hour. I always buy a big bottle of water at the airport after going through security because there are times when I need water and the flight attendants are in their seats.

Avoid soft drinks because they can give you gas when you fly, juice is better if you like something sweet. Try to eat fresh fruits, I usually pack a couple of apples and a banana along with some nuts or trail mix.

If it is a longer flight I will take my sleeping medicine too and it does help me get some rest.

As you know it is important keep your rsd leg moving, you can do some exercise for your leg if you have to stay in your seat for a long time. Most airlines have a some exercises listed in their in-flight magazine or some have exercise videos if you have an on demand entertainment unit in the back of the seats. When the seat belt sign is turned off I will try to get up and exercise my leg, I do this while waiting in the bathroom line or going to the galley door areas.

It sounds scary to fly with RSD but as I said I do it all the time and I do ok overall, it can be managed. Don't worry too much about it, just follow some of the tips, find out what works for you and I'm sure you will have just as much fun traveling as I do.

Have a blast in Vegas.

MsL

good morning Msldy,

I had just had to respond--ypu must travel alot and gave her some really good ideas, however there is a reason for the larger size uniform and i thought you might get of kick out of it. when flight attendants go from flying domestic (where we serve no food these days) to international flying it is a whole new experience. all though most of them would LOVE to blame it on the air pressure it is in fact the food. an average flight attendant going from domestic to international will gain approx 10 pounds within the first 3 months. first of all--the food is all new to them and different foods are served according to the destination. during those long flights we also get bored--so they do what is we call grazing. they start by eating a meal in the cabin that they are working and as all other cabins finish their service they go there to see what is left to eat. usually there are two meals served and sometimes a mid snack. hate to admit it, but airplane food looks good if your starving aboard a silver tube for 11hrs--but you would never choose it once your off the airplane. It is not for the diet conscious. once they get to the destination they can't wait to go out to eat and experience that countries food (plus once back in their room they will eat what they brought from home) and the new taste of the lagers are irrestible. the process then begins all over with the flight home. you would think it would be walked off with all the miles we walk,but it's not and before they know it they are now a size larger and most hilarious-- all they wonder how!!!! before they instituded the removal of weight check you would find most overweight flight attendants on international flights-- they usually leave later in night when supervisors have already gone home-- so it was less likely that they would run into one and be asked to "weigh in". hawaii, the uniform wore for that destination was called a "mu mu"-it was one large piece of material(god awful big flowers all over it)that you just wrapped around yourself--we swore some of them had sewed two of them together. In time, some of them return to a normal size but since the weight check was elimanated they have less of a reason why.
I just thought you might enjoy some inside info--hope this finds you in good health--

cheers!!!!

fireball!!!!!!!!!!!!----------------still a size 6!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

daniella · 01-28-2009, 01:04 PM

Hi. First I hope you enjoy your trip. My mom and I are going to have a fun day in Las Vegas never been if I get well. Anyhow I have flown more times with rsd then without due to my rsd and needing to get to the location. A few thoughts I have and I have rsd in legs and possibly eyes/ear. Anyhow I always get a wheel chair to and from the gate. The walk would be too long and painful and then they allow you to board first anyhow usually or you can tell them. Standing in the line pre hand is not good. I usually fly alone so I get an aisle seat because some people don't like to get up if you need to use the restroom and I don't want any accidents on my leg. On that note you should wait till all get off cause it is very close and I learned this almost getting hit by accident. It would of been a bump but to my rsd leg it may as well of been a bat as you know I am sure. I too get cold so bring layers. Try to not get to nervous. Since I have this in my eyes and ears I also get nervous but the anxiety makes it worse. It is just a long day but not so bad and I try to focus on getting to my goal and knowing I did it and you too. Try to get up and go to the bathroom even if you don't have to just to prevent cramping. Ok sending many safe and happy wishes for an amazing time.

jjjuen · 08-21-2009, 01:54 PM

Hello MsL,

I know that this is a very old post from you but it answers a lot of questions I have been searching for.
I just celebrated (Ha Ha) my 1 year anniversary with RSD. My brother recently proposed to his girlfriend and they are talking about having their wedding in Mexico. As I live in Minnesota, I have a lot of concerns about attending their wedding. I talked to my doctor and physical therapist about my concerncs about the flight- whether or not I could simply take a sleep aid to get through the flight and they both said that the were concerned about more than just the flight itself. They said it may be very difficult for me to deal with the temerature changes and other differences between Mexico and Minnesota. My doctor was concerned that I would be very sick throughtout my stay in Mexico. I really hope this is not the case.
You said that you travel a lot. Do you have difficulties setteling in to the new cities that you travel to? Should I expect more than the usual jetlag on any flights that I take? Does anyone have any suggestions on how to combat this?

Thanks,
JJJMN

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mslday

HI Ali,

How exciting for you to have the opportunity to get away. I travel all the time and I have a number of tips for you that should help you manage your RSD while flying.

First it is important that your parents request ground assistance from the airline. They should request a wheelchair for you, it does not matter if you don't need to use a a wheelchair regularly or not. The airlines are well versed on how to help people with disabilities and they know how challenging it can be for people who have any type of mobility issues. This will help you to get through all the line ups and security with minimal stress. An airport agent takes you through the whole process right up the the gate. They will also pre-board you and help you get settled on board the plane. When I came home from Germany this year following my surgery I did this and it really helped me, especially upon arrival in Canada when I had to go through customs and transfer to another flight to make it back to Vancouver. Pre- boarding also helped because I didn't have to worry about my leg getting bumped by all the crowds. It's really nice to to be able to get taken to the front of the line.

It is also important to understand the physiology of flight. Once the aircraft door is closed the cabin is pressurized. An aircraft planning to cruise at 40,000ft is programmed to rise gradually from take-off to around 8,000ft in cabin pressure altitude, and to then reduce gently to match the ambient air pressure of the destination. Because of this swelling can occur, even for those without RSD, many people frequently experience bloating and swollen feet but most peoples bodies are forgiving of these abuses. Flight attendants are advised to get uniforms that are 1 size larger for this reason as well.

I always take extra anti inflammatory medication about 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time and again about 45 minutes prior to landing.

Airplanes can be very cold and drafty so if you are sensitive to cold like i am you might want to consider taking a hot water bottle (empty of course) with you in your carry on bag. Once on board you can have the flight attendant fill it with hot water for you and they are happy to help. I think in England you have lots of hot water bottles with nice soft covers. They don't use microwaves on airplanes so you can't have those types of heating pads warmed up on board.

Be sure to drink lots and of water, at least 1 full glass per hour. I always buy a big bottle of water at the airport after going through security because there are times when I need water and the flight attendants are in their seats.

Avoid soft drinks because they can give you gas when you fly, juice is better if you like something sweet. Try to eat fresh fruits, I usually pack a couple of apples and a banana along with some nuts or trail mix.

If it is a longer flight I will take my sleeping medicine too and it does help me get some rest.

As you know it is important keep your rsd leg moving, you can do some exercise for your leg if you have to stay in your seat for a long time. Most airlines have a some exercises listed in their in-flight magazine or some have exercise videos if you have an on demand entertainment unit in the back of the seats. When the seat belt sign is turned off I will try to get up and exercise my leg, I do this while waiting in the bathroom line or going to the galley door areas.

It sounds scary to fly with RSD but as I said I do it all the time and I do ok overall, it can be managed. Don't worry too much about it, just follow some of the tips, find out what works for you and I'm sure you will have just as much fun traveling as I do.

Have a blast in Vegas.

MsL

Checkmate · 08-21-2009, 06:15 PM

Do not miss going to the Grand Canyon. Stay over night if you can. Was in Vegas this past June with my wife and we went to the Grand Canyon from there. About the flight we had a stop over and I had no problems on the flights. I can imagine this will be an issue for you. If I were you I would think about taking something that would help you sleep while in flight.

Anyway best of luck and enjoy your stay.

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