Expert Advice: Flying and Lymphedema

You may have seen the NY Times article on this very subject. For individuals with cancer, lymphedema can occur which presents a very significant side effect that may require lifelong maintenance. Lymphedema refers to a swelling of the limbs that occurs as a result of an impairment to the lymphatic system of the body. This can occur in one or more limbs and results in a blockage of lymphatic fluid that builds up if the problem is not addressed. Patients who have had lymph nodes removed, such as patients with breast cancer or those with abdominal cancers, are at increased risk for developing this condition. The diminished capacity of the system due to removal of part of the filtration system is the direct culprit and the area from which the nodes were removed cause the regional dysfunction.

The lymphatic system is critically important to the function of our bodies. It includes lymph nodes and vessels as well as the spleen, thymus, tonsils and bone marrow through which fluid is filtered. The function of lymph fluid is to carry proteins and other waste products back to the blood that are too large to diffuse through the capillaries. The larger blood vessels can then carry these to our waste processing organs. The nodes are charged with the job of filtering bacteria and other foreign matter from the fluid and are ingested by white blood cells. When lymph nodes are removed this processing capacity is reduced and because our lymphatic system has no pump, special care may be necessary to be certain it functions properly. Our blood is circulated by our heart. Our lymph, however, does not have it's own pump. It is circulated by the action of our muscles and deep breathing. Any added load on an altered system can present a challenge. Lacerations, use of needles and even blood pressure readings in a limb near the site of node removal can pose a problem that can lead to lymphedema. Flying has been another topic of discussion that concerns individuals whose lymph systems have been compromised. So what are the necessary precautions one should take?

According to Healthlinks Director and lymphedema specialist Trudy Turvey, "the studies done of late have shown that the risk for developing lymphedema is minimal. The most at risk individuals are those with a high number of lymph nodes removed and those who are overweight. However, there is no study showing that wearing a sleeve prevents lymphedema".

Trudy Turvey, MSPT has specialized in the treatment of cancer patients for over 10 years. If you have lymphedema or are at risk for developing it, take heed of her advice to negate any possibility of having a problem on your next trip.

- move when on the plane
- do your ROM exercises
- avoid lifting your suitcase, especially if you are not lifting that much in an exercise program
- drink lots of water
- avoid salty foods and alcohol.

Safe travels!