For individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), air travel often raises questions about its potential effects on their condition. Many wonder if flying can worsen symptoms or lead to disease progression. Understanding the scientific perspective can help individuals with MS approach travel with greater confidence and preparation.
Addressing Concerns About Flying and MS Progression
The primary concern for many with MS is whether flying causes permanent worsening, such as new lesions or accelerated disability. Current scientific understanding indicates air travel does not typically cause long-term MS disease activity or progression. While temporary symptom exacerbation can occur, this is distinct from actual disease progression.
Changes in cabin pressure and altitude do not directly trigger new demyelinating events or lesions. Studies on high-altitude exposure and MS symptoms generally focus on temporary exacerbations, not permanent damage. For instance, lower atmospheric pressure and oxygen might temporarily worsen symptoms like fatigue and weakness, but this isn’t linked to disease progression. Travel stress, a factor for anyone, is not usually considered a direct trigger for MS relapses or worsening of the disease itself.
Common Symptom Considerations During Air Travel
While flying does not lead to MS progression, the travel environment can exacerbate existing symptoms. Confined spaces, temperature fluctuations, and inherent travel fatigue present challenges. These temporary symptom flares, called pseudo-exacerbations, mimic a relapse but stem from factors like stress, heat, or fatigue, not new disease activity.
Common symptoms that may be exacerbated include:
Fatigue, a common MS symptom, can worsen due to the physical and mental demands of air travel, including navigating airports and delays.
Heat sensitivity (Uhthoff’s phenomenon) can temporarily intensify symptoms like blurred vision or weakness in warmer airport or plane environments.
Mobility challenges may arise from navigating crowded terminals, long walks to gates, and narrow aircraft aisles.
Bladder issues can become problematic due to limited restroom access or long lines on planes.
Cognitive fog may be heightened by travel stress and exhaustion.
Sensory issues, such as sensitivity to noise, bright lights, or vibrations, can be more pronounced in busy airport and cabin environments.
Strategies for Comfortable Air Travel with MS
Proactive planning can significantly enhance comfort and manage symptoms during air travel for individuals with MS.
Consider these strategies:
Plan ahead by booking accessible seating (e.g., aisle seat near a restroom) and informing the airline of special needs, including requesting pre-boarding.
Carry all necessary medications in a carry-on bag, with a doctor’s note for injectables or temperature-sensitive drugs, to avoid lost luggage or security issues.
Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water and bring high-protein snacks to manage energy levels and overall well-being.
Wear loose clothing and layers for temperature adjustment, and bring cooling vests or scarves for heat sensitivity.
For mobility, consider using wheelchairs or other aids at the airport and request assistance to conserve energy.
Manage fatigue by pacing yourself, taking breaks, and choosing non-stop flights to reduce overall travel time and stress.
Consulting Your Healthcare Provider
Before any significant air travel, individuals with MS should consult their neurologist or healthcare team. This allows for a personalized discussion of potential risks and necessary precautions based on one’s specific condition and symptoms. Your healthcare provider can offer tailored medical advice and help develop a plan to manage any challenges.
Individual experiences with MS vary widely, so what is comfortable or safe for one person may not be for another. Discussing travel plans, including destinations, duration, and unique concerns, with your medical team ensures the most appropriate guidance. They can also advise on managing medications while away and provide required documentation for airlines or security checkpoints.