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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Anyone have any suggestions how to deal with a 14 hour flight?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Orangeville, ON

Planning a trip in January but my RA has been in a flare for months and I am concerned about booking this very long 14 hour flight. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to get through it. I can’t afford first class sleepers to stretch out unfortunately and I am concerned by the time I get there I won’t be able to walk off the plane.

June 29, 2019
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around someone worried about managing a 14-hour flight to Dubai while in an RA flare, with the overwhelming consensus being to... Read more

Members rallied around someone worried about managing a 14-hour flight to Dubai while in an RA flare, with the overwhelming consensus being to take prednisone before and possibly after the flight to reduce inflammation and enjoy the trip. Several members shared practical strategies including booking seats with extra legroom, getting up frequently to walk and stretch even if just to the restroom, staying well-hydrated, bringing small pillows for support, and packing snacks and medications in an easy-to-reach carry-on. A recurring theme was refusing to let RA steal the joy of travel, with members encouraging each other to be proactive with medication, listen to their bodies, and embrace being the person who walks the aisles constantly if that's what it takes to stay comfortable.

A myRAteam Member

Ask your Doctor for a five day predisolone pack to help the flare . The only time I take any steroid is when going on a trip.

July 4, 2019
A myRAteam Member

Several times when I have had flareups my RA doctor has put me on prednisone for 4 days which has helped. I too have swelling in my right ankle, I have been given cortisone shots that works the first few times but no mire. Doctor thinks I have a bone spur in the ankle but he does not recommend surgery as I may nit be able to bend my foot after the surgery. Sometimes when I need to walk a lot I put a salonpas patch o. It which helps some.

June 30, 2019
A myRAteam Member

I agree with @A myRAteam Member I would take prednisone, just in case! Good luck. Hugs.

June 29, 2019
A myRAteam Member

I talked to my doc about long flights and he had specific medication adjustments i could make during the day if the flight to help... definitely worth asking.

October 4, 2019
A myRAteam Member

Over the counter Arnica Gel helps me some

July 9, 2019

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