Can you fly long haul with an aneurysm?

General
1

Hey guys,

I want everyone's opinion on this. What have you been told about flying? Can you fly with an aneurysm? Is there a limit as to how long you can fly for?

I'm wanting to go on holiday but I'm not sure. My aneurysm is 8mm and behind my right eye.

Thanks,


Sarah

2

Sarah, since everyone's situation is slightly different, checking with your neuro is the safest thing to do before making travel plans. This former discussion may also be helpful to you: http://www.bafsupport.org/forum/topics/flying-post-op-is-it-safe?commentId=4863831%3AComment%3A103562

I hope your doctor gives you the all-clear for flying. Keep us posted.

3

Thanks! What about flying with an unruptured aneurysm?

4

Hi Sarah,

I agree with 'Dancemom'. Since every person's aneurysm is different based on shape, location, conditions of the thickness/weakness of the wall of the aneurysm, person's general health etc... I would rely on you neurosurgeon's opinion. I'm a firm believer in at least a second opinion on important medical issues too.

I had a mid-sized, bifurcating, berry shaped (with a wide base), middle cerebral artery aneurysm discovered in Dec 2013. After a local neurologist and neurosurgeon said it was OK to fly (with my specific set of conditions), I flew about 10 hours of flight time from Anchorage to Boston where I had family and had my successful surgery to fix it.

We all want our lives to go on as 'normally' as we can.

I must admit I was terrified flying those two long flights prior to having my aneurysm fixed but for me it went well and I felt no different during the flights.

Everyone's situation is different. I would rely on your neurosurgeon's advice.

Good luck.

Beth

5

Hi Sarah

The opinion of both my Neurosurgeon and Neuroradiologist is that there is no risk in flying in a conventional pressurized plane!

I have flown from the UK to Greece (5 hours) and Spain (3 hours) in the last 4 months, with hassles at all.

Kind Regards

Martin

6

With my un-ruptured aneurysm described above, I was told it was safe for me to fly from Anchorage to Boston. After my clipping surgery, on my return trip, I had slight discomfort in the side of my head that had the surgery as we descended for the landing. I was told from my neurosurgeon's office that was probably due to lingering, temporary swelling from my surgery.

7

I’m a survivor of a 33mm aneurysm and when not on disability am an international 777 airline pilot. I have flown many times to doctors appointments with no problems. However as others have stated,check with your doc first.

1 Like
8

Good morning Joe! You found a topic that’s 9 years old! I love when you share both your wisdom and experience. I’ll have to close this tomorrow if no one responds!