Before Your Flight
Even if you don’t usually use a wheelchair or other mobility device, the airport often requires a lot of standing and walking. To save spoons, it might be a good idea to consider wheelchair assistance. By law, airlines have to assist those with disabilities. No documentation is needed. When you book your tickets, you may see an option to reserve wheelchair assistance. Check your airline website or airport prior to your trip to reserve it. If you forget to reserve wheelchair assistance, don’t worry! When you get to the airport to get your ticket/check in, you can ask for wheelchair assistance then as well. Click here for more information about this option in the US!
When you book your tickets, some airlines allow you to pick your seats. If this is an option for you, it may be helpful to consider picking seats that are closer to the boarding entrance, or seats near the aisle so you will have easier access to the bathroom. It depends on what you feel you might need.
It may be a good idea to plan for buffer days during your trip (if possible) where you can rest the days before and after your travel. This will allow you to make room for the rest you will likely need after a tiring trip and flight.
POTS symptoms can be very unpredictable, varying from day to day depending on certain triggers. Flying adds another challenging layer as it may be difficult to predict how you will feel before your flight. It may be a good idea to consider getting flight insurance. This may alleviate some of the added financial pressure if you are flaring and need to cancel at the last minute.
There is an amazing Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program that signals to others within the airport that you have a hidden disability and may need more assistance. You can use their site to search for Invisible Illness friendly places, and much more! Click here to learn more!
Written By: Dr. Sujana Reddy, VP and Medical Board Leader