Treatment FAQ

when can i take long flight after cancer treatment

by Magnus Simonis Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Many people wonder about the best time to travel during treatment, and the answer will be different for everyone. Air travel should be avoided if at all possible for at least two weeks after surgery for a number of reasons (and much longer in some situations such as after brain surgery).

With some protocols, the chemotherapy nadir (when blood counts are at their lowest) occurs around 10 days to 14 days after an infusion,1 and an oncologist may recommend travel either earlier or later for this reason.Mar 19, 2022

Full Answer

When is the best time to fly after chemo?

In general, any incisions should be well healed and any drains removed. With chemotherapy, the best time to fly will depend on the particular chemotherapy regimen you are on, as well as other factors such as side effects you are experiencing and more.

Can You Fly with cancer?

Flying with cancer can sometimes have significant benefits. In some cases, people may need to fly to the cancer center where they will be treated. But pleasure trips are encouraged by many oncologists as a great way to cope with the rigors of treatment and to reconnect with family and/or friends outside of the clinic or hospital setting.

How soon can I fly after cataract surgery?

You'll be able to fly once the air has been re-absorbed, normally after 7 to 10 days. You might be able to fly sooner than this if you had keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery. For some types of eye procedures, you might need to wait for 2 to 6 weeks before you can fly. Your doctor can advise you about this.

When can you travel after a chemotherapy infusion?

With some protocols, the chemotherapy nadir (when blood counts are at their lowest) occurs around 10 days to 14 days after an infusion, 1  and your oncologist may recommend travel either earlier or later for this reason.

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Can you fly after cancer treatment?

Air travel during chemotherapy may not always be safe. But, depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may give you clearance to fly. Talk to your doctor first before booking any flights.

How long before you can fly after radiotherapy?

You'll be able to fly once the air has been reabsorbed, normally after 7 to 10 days. You might be able to fly sooner than this if you had keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery.

Can cancer patients travel by airplane?

1. You may need medical clearance. If cancer or cancer treatment is causing symptoms or side effects, is making you look ill, or requires you to use oxygen, the airline crew can refuse to let you on the plane.

Can a cancer patient travel long distance?

For many people with cancer, traveling a long distance to receive treatment is a necessity. Health care providers may be spread across multiple hospitals and offices, and the specialists you need may be hours away from home.

How long after chemo can you travel?

With some protocols, the chemotherapy nadir (when blood counts are at their lowest) occurs around 10 days to 14 days after an infusion,1 and an oncologist may recommend travel either earlier or later for this reason.

Can you fly while undergoing chemotherapy?

If you have cancer, you may want to use the downtime between treatments to enjoy a vacation or to visit family and friends. On the other hand, a family emergency or other crisis may require you to travel when you didn't plan to. Traveling while undergoing chemotherapy is possible for many people with cancer.

Does altitude affect chemotherapy?

It was found that 89.5% of the patients with neutropenia after chemotherapy were significantly higher than those in low altitude areas, which also confirmed this phenomenon. The increased side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in cancer patients at high altitude are closely related to hypoxia.

How do you travel with cancer patient?

If you have cancer and plan to travel, do these 5 things before you get out your suitcase:Make a doctor's appointment. ... Get your medical records. ... Review your medications. ... Find the manufacturer's card for your implantable medical device. ... Learn how to protect yourself from infection.

Who should not fly on airplanes?

Coronavirus (COVID-19) You should not fly if you have experienced recent symptoms of COVID-19 or have been identified as being a close contact of someone who has experienced COVID-19.

Do airlines give discounts for cancer patients?

Angel Airlines for Cancer Patients Angel Airlines provides free or reduced commercial airline tickets for cancer patients and their families in need. Patients must express a financial need in order to participate in this program, as well as provide their doctor's certification that there is a medical need.

What Are Late Effects of Cancer Treatment?

Late effects are side effects of cancer treatment that become apparent after your treatment has ended. Cancer survivors might experience late effec...

What Cancer Treatments Cause Late Effects?

Late effects of cancer treatment can come from any of the main types of cancer treatment: chemotherapy, hormone therapy, radiation, surgery, target...

What Late Effects Might People Who Were Treated For Childhood Cancers Experience?

If you underwent cancer treatment as a child, you may be at risk of many of the same late side effects of treatment as people who were adults durin...

What Signs and Symptoms Might Signal That You're Experiencing Late Effects of Cancer Treatment?

Talk to your doctor about the late effects of your particular treatment. In some cases, your doctor will know what effects are at risk to you. But...

What Can You Do to Prevent Late Effects of Cancer Treatment?

It isn't clear that late effects are preventable or why some people might experience late effects while others don't. While this can be frustrating...

How long does it take to fly after surgery?

You'll be able to fly once the air has been reabsorbed, normally after 7 to 10 days. You might be able to fly sooner than this if you had keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery.

How to get breathless after flying?

get breathless after light exercise, such as walking up a flight of stairs. If you are fit to fly but have a weak immune system some destinations might not be ideal for you. Check with your doctor or travel health clinic before booking.

How long after a bone marrow transplant can you go abroad?

Doctors usually advise against going abroad for at least 6 months after a bone marrow or stem cell transplant. Most people need to have regular check ups and might need blood transfusions during this time.

Can you fly if your platelets are low?

Cancer treatment can lower your platelet count, so can increase your risk of bleeding. If you have very low levels of platelets your doctor might advise you not to fly. Check with your team before you book.

Can cancer patients fly?

Most people who have cancer can travel without problems. But there are times when it's best not to travel. You might not be able to fly if you have had certain treatments. This is because of changes in pressure or the amount of oxygen in the cabin of the plane. Always check with your doctor that you can fly.

Can you travel after a transplant?

Once your blood counts have gone back to normal, you’ll be able to travel . This is usually within a year of your transplant. Talk to your doctor about how safe it is to travel and whether you need any vaccinations before booking the trip. See which travel vaccinations you may need.

Can you fly with a lower hemoglobin?

You might be able to fly safely with a lower haemoglobin as long as you have oxygen during the flight. Some airlines provide oxygen for passengers, others allow you to bring your own and some won’t let you. Before you book it’s best to make sure what the airline’s policy on oxygen is.

What to do if you have cancer and no longer seeing a doctor?

If you were treated for cancer many years ago or are no longer seeing a cancer specialist for checkups, talk to your primary care doctor about late effects . If you think you might be experiencing late effects or your doctor isn't sure what late effects to watch for, ask for a referral to a cancer specialist.

What happens if you have cancer years ago?

Increased risk of other types of cancers. Nerve damage. If you were treated for cancer many years ago, you may assume any health problems you have are related to aging, not past cancer treatments. Tell your doctor what you know about your childhood cancer treatments.

What are the side effects of cancer treatment?

Childhood cancer survivors experience some of these late side effects: Heart problems, including an increased risk of heart attacks. Blood vessel problems, including an increased risk of stroke.

Can cancer affect children?

If you underwent cancer treatment as a child, you may be at risk of many of the same late side effects of treatment as people who were adults during their cancer treatments. But you may also be at risk of additional late side effects. That's because children's bones, tissues and organs are growing rapidly during treatment, ...

Can chemotherapy cause infertility?

Different chemotherapy drugs cause different late effects. So if you didn't take the chemotherapy drugs that can cause infertility, then you aren't believed to be at risk of that particular late effect. Late effects of radiation and surgery will affect only the area of the body exposed to them.

Can radiation affect your body?

Late effects of radiation and surgery will affect only the area of the body exposed to them. So, for example, if you had radiation to a part of your body other than your head or neck, then you won't be at risk of cavities and tooth decay as a result of your radiation therapy.

Is cancer treatment over?

Learn about late and long-term effects of cancer treatment so that you can take more control of your health as a cancer survivor. Your cancer treatment is over, but the treatments that may have saved your life may also continue to cause side effects. As more people are living longer after cancer treatment, more is becoming known about late side ...

Should I fly long haul two weeks after chemo

Had an awful year last year and things were looking up, onc told me things had been looking good so go live my life as things were under control, so booked a months holiday to florid a as a treat for my 50th, then got poorly again, need to start chemo on 11th Feb for 6 treatments this will finish 14 days before we meet to fly, was wondering if anyone has an opinion, I feel confused as I want to go but my insurance will not insure me as soon after chemo, I need something to look forward too..

Should I fly long haul two weeks after chemo

We have an interesting discussion on travel insurance here which you may find helpful.

Should I fly long haul two weeks after chemo

Hi, hellsbells, have you spoken to your oncologist about this? Personally I would not travel to USA without insurance. There are insurance companies that may help with permission from your doctor (MIA being one of them).

Should I fly long haul two weeks after chemo

Try a different insurance company. I flew to India with full insurance 7 days after finishing chemo - it was tiring but well worth the trip to be somewhere warm and sunny!

Should I fly long haul two weeks after chemo

Like others have said think you should take the advice of your medical team as to whether this would be okay healthwise but as far as the USA is concerned my husband could not get insurance to cover him (it would have cost three times the cost of the holiday and not viable!).

Should I fly long haul two weeks after chemo

For your reply I know it's not ideal to fly 14 days after chemo but this was booked last yr with a trip to florid a then new York, my health is my priority but if I'm healthy enough then do I just say sod it I'm going ? I will see what onc advises I maybe able to postpone it but I'm thinking until I have got through 3 treatments half way through then nobody will say ?.

Should I fly long haul two weeks after chemo

This really gives me hope, I'm wanting to go and if I'm OK to fly then I ask why not, my health is my priority would you know where you got your insurance from and was it expensive thanks for your reply

What happens after cancer treatment?

When cancer treatment ends, people begin a new chapter in their lives, one that can bring hope and happiness, but also worries and fear. No two people are alike. Each person has his or her own way of coping and learning to manage these emotions. It will take time and practice.

How to help cancer survivors?

Emotional support can be a powerful tool for both cancer survivors and their families. Talking with others who are in situations like yours can help ease loneliness. You can also get useful ideas from others that might help you.

How does religion help people with cancer?

Religion can be a great source of strength for some people. Some find new faith during a cancer experience. Others find that cancer informs their existing faith or their faith provides newfound strength. Still others find themselves questioning their faith. If you are a religious person, a minister, rabbi, other leader of your faith, or a trained pastoral counselor can help you identify your spiritual needs and find spiritual support. Some members of the clergy are specially trained to help minister to people with cancer and their families.

What does it feel like to be put aside for cancer treatment?

For some people, emotions that were put aside during cancer treatment come flooding back all at once, and they feel overwhelmed with sadness, anger, or fear. Some of it may be the lingering side effects of treatment, but some of it feels as if your body and spirit are tired and need a long rest.

How long does a cancer group meet?

Other groups focus on certain types of cancer or stages of disease. The length of time groups meet can range from a set number of weeks to an ongoing program.

Can cancer come back?

You’ll probably be concerned that the cancer might come back, and you might find yourself thinking about death and dying. The fear of cancer coming back (called cancer recurrence) is common among cancer survivors and can sometimes be quite intense. Maybe you’re more aware of the effects the cancer has had on your family, friends, and career.

Is it better to be anxious after cancer?

Any of these things might make you anxious. Some people are better prepared for life after cancer than others. But everyone can benefit from help and support from other people, whether friends and family, religious groups, support groups, professional counselors, or others.

What happens during the waiting period for cancer?

During this waiting period, the cancer can progress, and early treatment options are missed entirely. Getting immediate access to proper tests and treatments is critical to optimizing your treatment outcome: the speed with which your treatment team acts can literally be the difference between life and death.

How long does it take to get cervical cancer surgery in Thailand?

Studies show that "in Thailand, at a single center, wait times exceeding 8 weeks for surgery in early stage cervical cancer care leads to worse outcomes.". Studies conducted in the US confirm that the health care system’s inability to deal with the number of cancer patients is a result of a lack of resources.

Is wait time for cancer treatment increasing?

Studies show that wait times in standard cancer care are a problem all around the world, with lengths generally continuing to increase. As such, the United States, Canada, and Europe are being confronted with the consequences – and recognizing that in order to decrease wait times, an increase in resources (time and budget) is vital.

Is wait time for cancer worse in the UK?

Wait times for cancer treatment in UK. While wait times are typically worse in the United States than in the UK, the UK also struggles to meet the growing demand for cancer tests and treatments.

Is time important for cancer treatment?

The faster you get a precise diagnosis and treatment, the better your chances are of having a successful treatment outcome. And there’s no doubt that one of the biggest obstacles in standard cancer treatment today is the time it takes for patients to get proper tests and treatments.

What to do after cancer treatment?

Cancer survivors: Care for your body after treatment. Simple steps can improve your sense of well-being and your quality of life after cancer treatment. Find out what you can do. By Mayo Clinic Staff. After your cancer treatment, as a cancer survivor you're eager to return to good health. But beyond your initial recovery, ...

How to help cancer patients recover faster?

Regular exercise increases your sense of well-being after cancer treatment and can speed your recovery. Cancer survivors who exercise may experience: Adding physical activity to your daily routine doesn't take a lot of extra work. Focus on small steps to make your life more active.

How to prevent cancer from recurring?

Opt for healthy sources of carbohydrates, such as whole grains, legumes, and fruits and vegetables. This combination of foods will ensure that you're eating plenty of the vitamins and nutrients you need to help make your body strong. It's not known if a certain diet or certain nutrients can keep cancer from recurring.

Why do people with cancer sleep so much?

Sleep problems are more common in people with cancer, even survivors. This can be due to physical changes, side effects of treatment, stress or other reasons. But getting enough sleep is an important part of your recovery.

How to get over cancer?

With your doctor's approval, start slowly and work your way up. The American Cancer Society recommends adult cancer survivors exercise for at least 150 minutes a week, including strength training at least two days a week. As you recover and adjust, you might find that more exercise makes you feel even better.

How to improve long term health after cancer?

The recommendations for cancer survivors are no different from the recommendations for anyone who wants to improve his or her health: Exercise, eat a balanced diet, maintain a healthy weight, get good sleep, ...

What to eat when you have cancer?

Vary your diet to include lots of fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains. When it comes to selecting your entrees, the American Cancer Society recommends that cancer survivors:

How long after cancer treatment do side effects occur?

Many people who have had cancer treatment have a risk of developing long-term side effects. These side effects can happen months or years after treatment. Evaluating and treating late effects is an important part of cancer survivorship care.

What are the side effects of cancer treatment?

Talk with your doctor about any new symptoms or side effects that you experience. Fatigue. Fatigue is a constant feeling of physical, emotional, or mental tiredness. It is the most common side effect of cancer treatment. Some cancer survivors have fatigue for months or even years after finishing treatment.

What are the side effects of radiation?

Increased risk of stroke from high doses of radiation to the brain. Nervous system side effects, including damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, called peripheral neuropathy. Cancer survivors should have regular physical examinations and hearing tests after treatment to check for these effects.

What medicine did you receive for Hodgkin lymphoma?

Are 65 and older. Received higher doses of chemotherapy. Received certain medicines, such as trastuzumab (Herceptin, Ogivri) and doxorubicin (Adriamycin, Doxil) Below is a list of common heart conditions.

Does radiation damage bone marrow?

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can also damage bone marrow stem cells. This increases the risk of either acute leukemia or myelodysplasia. Myelodysplasia is a blood cancer where the normal parts of the blood are either not made or are abnormal.

Can you have your spleen removed from Hodgkin lymphoma?

Survivors of Hodgkin lymphoma, especially those diagnosed before 1988, often had their spleens removed. The spleen is a vital organ for the immune system. Removing it is linked with a higher risk of infections. Survivors of bone and soft-tissue cancers may have lost part or all of a limb.

Can cancer patients have post traumatic stress disorder?

Cancer survivors, caregivers, family, and friends may also have post-traumatic stress disorder. This is an anxiety disorder. It may develop after living through a very frightening or life-threatening event, such as cancer diagnosis and treatment. Each person’s post-treatment experience is different.

Can cancer patients wait to start treatment?

These findings reveal that patients with newly diagnosed cancer are having to wait longer to begin treatment, a delay that is associated with a substantially increased risk of death. The researchers used prospective data from the National Cancer Database and examined the number of days between diagnosis and the first treatment for persons ...

Do patients with cancer wait longer to get treatment?

Patients with newly diagnosed cancer are having to wait longer to begin treatment, study data indicates. Greater efforts are needed to prevent treatment delays for patients with cancer, according to research presented at the 2017 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual meeting.

How long after neurosurgery can you fly?

Unless imaging tests have been done that show that air and gas has been absorbed, you should wait at least 7 days before flying.

What are the risks of flying?

Individual risk factors must be weighed. For example, an airplane may have lower oxygen levels and lower barometric pressure. It’s not an issue if you’re healthy, but it’s potentially dangerous if you’ve just had surgery and: 1 have heart or lung disease 2 are anemic 3 are an older adult 4 are or have been a smoker

How to reduce risk of blood clots?

Here are a few ways to improve your circulation while traveling: While seated, extend your legs straight out and flex your ankles so your toes point toward you.

Can you fly a long distance before surgery?

Flying a long distance just before major surgery may increase. Trusted Source. the risk of developing blood clots after surgery. Your doctor can assess your individual risk factors for the type of surgery you’ll be having and suggest measures to lower your risk.

Can you travel long distance if you haven't had surgery?

Even if you haven’t had surgery recently, long-distance travel can increase. Trusted Source. the risk of blood clots in some people. Blood clots are most likely to form in deep veins in the legs, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Can you fly too soon after surgery?

What risks are associated with flying too soon after surgery? The risks of flying too soon after surgery can differ according to the type of surgery you’ve had and your specific health concerns. Cardiac and vascular effects of general anesthesia typically don’t last long and won’t necessarily affect your flying risk.

Is it safe to travel before surgery?

Every situation is different, so it’s important to talk to your doctor about when it will be safe to travel before you have your surgery. Your primary care doctor or surgeon can evaluate your personal risks. With regard to travel, be sure to discuss: your risk for blood clots.

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Going Back to “Normal”

  • You’ve been seeing your cancer care team quite often; now, suddenly, you don’t have to visit for many months at a time. When treatment is done, some people feel like they’re no longer fighting the cancer. Worries can set in. You might feel alone and lost without the support of your cancer care team. These people may have become an important part of your life. Not seeing them migh…
See more on cancer.org

Learning to Live with Uncertainty

  • You may notice that you’re paying a lot of attention to aches and pains in your body. You may feel like a “sitting duck.” The doctor says you have no signs of cancer now, but can you be sure? You may be wondering… 1. Will it come back? 2. What are the chances it will come back? 3. How will I know if it has come back? 4. What will I do if it comes back? 5. When will it come back? The fea…
See more on cancer.org

Health Problems from Cancer Treatment

  • Some cancer treatments may cause health problems later on. These may be called long-term side effects. These problems might not appear right away and some don’t show up until years after treatment. Ask your cancer care team: 1. If the treatments you had put you at risk for short- or long-term health problems 2. What those problems are and how you c...
See more on cancer.org

Get Support

  • Emotional support can be a powerful tool for both cancer survivors and their families. Talking with others who are in situations like yours can help ease loneliness. You can also get useful ideas from others that might help you. There are many kinds of support programs, including individual or group counseling and support groups. Support in any form allows you to express your feeling…
See more on cancer.org

Bottom Line

  • Keep in mind that you are a cancer survivor and remember the good news: You are one of millions of Americans alive today who has had cancer, and the survival rate is improving all the time. Like most of them, you and the people around you can adjust to and lead a fulfilling life after cancer.
See more on cancer.org

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