Breast Cancer Patients

Take Control

Breast cancer treatment presents a unique set of challenges, but asking questions and gaining knowledge can help you avoid unnecessary pain down the road. Be sure to talk to your doctor about Lymphedema and the risks involved with air travel.

Guidlines For Using Compression Garments Include:

• Obtain a well-fitted graduated compression garment for air travel
• Wear it several times in advance of your trip to make sure it fits properly and is comfortable
• Wear a compression hand piece, either a glove or a gauntlet, with a compression arm sleeve
• Place the garment on before take-off
• Leave the garment on for one to three hours after deplaning to allow tissue pressures to equilibrate
• While away from home, continue your regular schedule of compression garment wear

Lymphedema & Air Travel

Flying presents a challenge for individuals with lymphedema and those at risk for lymphedema. The decrease in cabin pressure in the airplane puts stress on your lymphatic and circulatory systems and this can lead to an increase in swelling.