Use Caution by Wearing a Compression Sleeve when Traveling by Air
By Pat O'Connor, Lymphedema People
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com
Jan 3, 2005
There are three reasons for wearing compression wraps or garments while flying. It helps to understand the dynamics of how lymph fluid flows through our system. The muscle action of our bodies pushes against the air pressure which creates the "pump" action for lymph flow.
In flying, this outside pressure changes and fluctuates dramatically, thus causing the pump action to be far less efficient. The result is that the fluid finds it increasingly difficult to leave the arm.
The second reason is that a person is quite sedentary during air flight. Without the muscle activity, lymph flow is already greatly diminished which again leads to increased fluid retention or fluid pooling.
The final reason is the over exertion of the limb involved with carrying baggages, suitcases, etc. This type of extreme exertion may cause an inflammatory response, which we know leads to increased swelling.
There isn't much one can do about the air pressure. One thing I always do while flying is those subtle stretch exercises. Muscle flexes, limb stretching and other very low impact exercises can help. These will also decrease your chance of blood clots, which are another concern with being cramped up with lymphedema.
The over exertion can be helped by learning to pack light, using suitcases with wheels and pull handles, and by being careful of the weight factor on any carry-on luggage. Also, plan your schedule efficiently so that you are not having to make those mad exhausting last minutes dashes.
The National Lymphedema Network has just redone their advisory on air travel. The revised one can be found at:
http://www.lymphnet.org/nlnairtravel.pdf
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They have an incredible array of articles, information, links and news.
Visit them at:
Atlantic Breast Cancer Net
http://www.abcn.ca/index.html