Thinking of flying but never dare

Hi all

I had my SRS since Feb’15. I asked my AVM specialist, family doc as well others brain specialist & all said “is ok fly” “it shouldn’t be a problem, go fly” but unfortunately i don’t have to guts to try… :frowning:

Any advice from you people???

I have gone on two trips since my gamma knife, fully supported by the neuro surgeon. I also did a bunch of research and one really neat article I found was that the pressure at cruising altitude is similar to living in Denver, Colorado. That really put my mind at ease, put it in to perspective for me. Although I’ve never been to Denver! I guess the problem may be amplified if the cabin depressurized, but that is rare. The trips I took were not little skips either the longest being from Manitoba to Vancouver to Maui and returned. I understand the risk was a little more than staying put, but in my specific case, a small risk I felt was worth taking and created memories with my family! Again I relied largely on my neuro’s opinion. This trip was booked the month before my bleed, so almost a year before we went and I did have some concerns in respect to insurance while there, more than the flight itself. I found a company to insure me, and had a great time.

I have gone flying several times after my AVM surgerys and was also flone to the hospital when my AVM ruptured. My doctors said that it was fine to fly after my surgeries just don’t end up being a fighter pilot that’s pushing it. My AVM was back in 2000 so a lot has changed. Best of luck to you. Hope you fly again.

I was told the same thing, so I went and got me a skydiving license, I did it as long as I could, about ten yrs, started having altitude pressure issues so I hung it up, do only what YOU feel comfortable with, only you know you,

When I had my AVM bleed, I was air-lifted in a helicopter to Ottawa, and then a few weeks later I was flown in a plane to Toronto. I would say flying is probably okay, but with that being said, the helicopter might have been de-pressurized for my head.

Mate I had my AVM bleed in may '15 and surgery immediately thereafter. I was in hospital for a few weeks and recovery was good (thanking God) and took a flight with no problems whatsoever within 2 months post surgery.

I have been flying regularly even long distance ( around 8 hour long journeys) with no issues.

If you’re physically fit to fly, don’t let the thought of AVM stop you from living your life. Only you will know how you feel and sometimes it’s just the worry more than anything else.
If you’re planning a short break and your physician is happy - I don’t see why you shouldn’t go.

All the best though :slight_smile:

agree, you are worrying over nothing. Ive been to india in flights, 12 hours easy peezy. Just enjoy your flight!

I agree, get on with living your life. Since my Gamma Knife, August 2016, I have been on many flights and even a trip to Disney World where I rode every roller coaster. I am not scared of anything after having been through the diagnosis and treatment for my avm. Am living my life to the full and hoping the Gamma Knife is working its magic! Take care

I am so grateful to have found this support almost 2 years ago. Almost every question I’ve had on my AVM journey has been addressed here. The thought of flying has occupied my thoughts for the past 2 years. My AVM was also in the Cerebellum and I was treated with Gamma Knife Radiation in April 2015. When I asked my Neuro and Neuro-Surgeon if flying would cause a problem, they both said, “the most you will get is a severe headache for about 3-days”. I don’t want a severe headache. That would remind me of the God-awful pain I suffered during the rupture. However after reading the previous posts, I’m almost convinced to try it and fly. I committed to living my life and that’s what I strive to do. Thanks to all of you, I really hope to fly sometime this year, without fear, and hopefully without pain

Sharon D.

I was diagnosed with my DAVF in 2011 and had my 1st angiogram and embolism in Jan of 2012- I have flown to Maui from California a few times and NYC, DC and Boston and sometimes I get a headache - I find eating protein and having some club soda helps - I always carrying zofran an anti nausea pill with me- You should be fine and might have a headache- drink lots of water and wear compression socks
hugs
Angela