Flying

[CWeir]

I think I may already know the answer but just to be on the safe side, can you fly pre-surgery or if surgery isn't in the near future. Does anyone know the effects of flying with a CM-1 and a mild cerebral tonsil ectopia?

[Lottida]

You definitely can find some great info on this forum!!!  I have learned a great deal myself.  I do want to say that some people find ear buds & listening to music helps prevent ear pressure as well while flying.  This may help drown out the ringing in your ear for a bit.  I normally do not have much of an increase in symptoms due to flying.  I did however have big issues with ear pressure on a Mexican airline some years ago, but it was due to slight loss of cabin pressure.  It was brought to my attention in Costa Rica that plain ole swimmers plugs work just as good as the expensive stuff.......go figure!!   I hope you enjoy your long needed vacay & have good quality time with your finance'.

[selmaS]

  Hi as all the others have mentioned yes you can fly...I flew a month b4 I got my DX....and I am not ure it was a factor for me...

But for those that tend to have more pressure headaches it may be advisable to get a product called earplanes....it helps with the build up of pressure...they sell these at most drug stores....

I enjoyed my trip when I went and I am sure you will as well...just remember to listen to your body and do not try to do too much ...take it slow and enjoy !!

[Elisaandbucky]

I am glad to hear you can have a vacation.

[CWeir]

Thank you soo much. My travel plans aren't until July; it's been postponed twice since November '14 because I had no answers and no support, until recently. Now I can confirm my flight, get that long awaited vacation so well deserved!!
Thank you.

[Elisaandbucky]

I can concur on your sentiment of gratitude for the answers and encouragement you have gained from this community. And, I am very sad to hear that you are not getting any valuable answers or consideration from medical professionals. Lottida is right, above. There is necessary flight travel for some of us. I can add 2 of my own suggestions to make the flights you have to make easier for you. First, try to book early so you can have a better selection of seats. I love sitting at the exit row to have the extra room. I am not tall, but I think just knowing that there is more room makes me more mentally comfortable. Second, if you don't already have one, get one of those travel neck pillows that look like a donut. Mine makes me feel supported and more secure - especially in the event of turbulence. Lottida makes a great suggestion about the swimmers' ear plugs. I am going to add that to my carry on bag! I hope you can have a smoother course with all your medical navigation. Let us know.

[CWeir]

I have to thank you and this group immensely. I haven't had doctors, specialist, hospital, tell me anything, but mostly "Nothing is wrong with you go home" I think since July '14 I've been to seen by all of the above about 30, if not, more times.

My fear is the ears and headaches. My ear has been full and ringing since day one with ferocity. My headaches have become pressure headaches. You've given me great information. Now I can put my fiancee to rest and assure him that I can see him.

Mine was determined to be developmental; however, I did have a head injury at about 11 years of age, so I question that a bit. No matter it's there and requires attention.

[Lottida]

Well lots of chiarians fly to a different state to find a NS, so I know you can fly.  Not really sure of the effects since everyone is different.  I do know that most of us have had our Chiari since birth (unless yours was acquired due to tumor or something), so probably not much different from any other flight if you have flown b4.  I'm sure you may experience some pressure/headache issues & ear stuffiness may be more of a problem.  You could get you some of those swimmers plugs to help prevent ear problems & have headache meds handy.  Good luck & hope you have a safe flight!!!