During Your Flight

• Syncopal Counter Maneuvers: get up and walk around as you are able or exercise your legs/feet when seated also (squeezing legs, calf/heel raises, seated march, together to help with blood pooling at least every half an hour-to-hour minimum or whatever you feel is best and recommended by your medical team). Some options you can pass by your medical team are listed here.

• Because of the rapid increase in heart rate and air pressure during flights, it can contribute towards the feeling of presyncope or feeling faint. Letting at least one of the flight attendants or passengers you are sitting next to know ahead of time may be helpfu, so that if this happens, they will know what to do to help you.

• Consider wearing a Medical ID bracelet and lanyard. Click here for some helpful Medical ID options, and click here to learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard!

• You can de-board the plane last on arrival to reduce the amount of time you are standing.

• If you need access to mobility aids during the flight, you can talk to the flight attendant about mobility aid storage options that are accessible for you. You can also ask someone next to you if they can help with storage and retrieval, depending on your comfort level.

• Consider wearing an n95 to reduce your exposure to respiratory viruses while on your flight. Talk to your medical team about what options they feel are best for you.

Written By: Dr. Sujana Reddy, VP and Medical Board Leader