Flying with a low hemoglobin

[carolsbell]

I just found out that my hemoglobin is 9.7. I have been anemic for some time now due to heavy menstruation. I am scheduled to fly internationally this weekend. Are there any concerns that I should have about my low level??

[alagirl]

transfusion level isn't until you go under 8, so even though 9.7 seems low, for a treating female, its not critical.  I lived for years with my hemaglobin in the 9's.  

[Deb_c430]

I never had a problem either, normally all that is required is that come in original  bottle or box,  With your name on it  that should match your passport. DO NOT put meds in bags. I have  traveled back and forth to Europe, Even Turkey  non EU countries, many, many times. Infact returning from Germany I  had needles and a 3 month supply of pyg, no problem at all.  

Good luck

Deb

[Marcia2202]

If you travel to Europe, you might have to present a copy of your script.

Marcia

[jdwithhcv]

I had no problem transporting meds.  I did just as smaylea described and all went well.

jd

[smaylea]

I flew recently with my pegintron ice-packed (my meds are shipped and there are ice packs in the travel packing) in a small insulated carry-on travel bag. No problems at all. Once you get up to the pre-security person who checks your id and boarding pass, tell them you are travelling with liquid, ice-packed meds with needles. They will direct you to someone at the security line who will physically open and inspect it and then you go through the regular xray line like everyone else. I had no delay at all. They may ask what it is and I told them chemo meds. No problem at all.

[portann]

Hi JD,

Wondering how you travel with your meds. I'd like to fly but thought the interferon has to stay refrigerated. And would there be a hassle transporting the liquid injections?

Thanks.

[jdwithhcv]

I flew a lot during tx and had hgb in the 9-10 range the whole time.  You can do it, just plan to be exhausted - if you think you'll need it arrange for bottled oygen, they have it aboard.  Arrange for a wheelchair with the airline, its especially good for international arrivals because it puts you at the front of the line at immigration and customs with a helper.  If you are headed to a high altitude destination you'll really feel the huff and puff - I spent a few days in Denver last winter and wow was I weak.

Bon voyage - hope you're going somewhere great.

jd

[nygirl7]

I would honestly ask the doctor because the lack of oxygen you are already suffering from really sounds like it could be compounded being in pressurized air for so long - but I really wouldn't have the slightest idea.  9.7 is pretty critically low and I don't know if you are on treatment or not - but I do know how you feel.

Please ask the doctor if it's wise - you don't want to get to your destination than collapse, so far away from home.

[virgocharm]

hi carol, i had same problem, my was 98.7. i suffered heavy periods also. i was walking around feeling real good. had my yearly check-up. my gp send my results, thats when i found out. she told me to take 3 iron pills a day. that was 1 month and a week ago.now my hemo is 12.4. i have not treated yet. so my question would be to you, are you on tx? because that would bring it down. if not, it sounds like iron difficiency. so i ,personally, would advise you, until you have it checked out, start taking iron a.s.a.p. watch how fast you come up. hope i have been of help.  let me know how it goes