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September 3, 2015
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Answer Summary

Members shared honest experiences about flying with rheumatoid arthritis, with many reporting increased stiffness, swelling, pain, and fatigue... Read more

Members shared honest experiences about flying with rheumatoid arthritis, with many reporting increased stiffness, swelling, pain, and fatigue during and after flights. Several members offered practical strategies to make air travel more manageable, including requesting an aisle or handicap seat, wearing comfortable layered clothing, drinking plenty of water before the flight, getting up frequently to stretch or do standing exercises, and using wheelchair assistance at the airport to conserve energy. A recurring theme was the importance of listening to your body without guilt, doing what you need to stay comfortable even if it means getting up repeatedly, and not letting the challenges of travel stop you from enjoying meaningful experiences like dream vacations and family milestones.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Did more thinking. Wear comfortable clothes for the flight. Have a sweater or jacket so you can add or remove depending on conditions. Hopefully as someone said get an isle seat. Don't feel bad if you have to get up and walk past/over someone, if you need to do it DO IT. Bring something along that you enjoy, perhaps a book or I have music on my phone that helps. Also mask so you can blot everyone/thing out and ear plugs (if not listening to music) to block out the noise, but only insert when at cruising altitude. I didn't read all the answers so hopefully there is something new here for you. Have fun!!!!

November 22, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Thank you everyone for your advice. We have planned this trip for a Very long time before my diagnosis. I did get an aisle Seat but will look in to a handicap one. Lots of Good tips

September 3, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Flying is always bad for me. When we land I'm usually swollen and in considerable pain. Drink plenty of water the day before and try doing some stretches after take off.

September 3, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Hardly any plane now is big enough to get up and stretch. I do get up and walk and one time I went in back where the stewards were and did some standing exercises. You can also just flex your muscles when sitting and/or stretch your legs and toes. Wishing you the best on your dream vacation.

September 3, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

I would suggest handicapped seating as well as the use of the little go art to de erase the strain on your body when flying. Personally flying s very hard on my body due to the many restrictions on fights and he length of walking to get to where I need to be. Good luck.

September 3, 2015

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