How to Travel After Surgery
June 13, 2023
It is summer! It is a great time of year to get out and enjoy the outdoors, catch a ball game, and take that family vacation. Unfortunately some of us need to have surgery in the summer. This could be elective or not our choice, but regardless of the reason surgery does not need to put a damper on your summer travel plans. Here are some tips to think about when you are preparing to travel after a surgery.
Travel with someone: After a procedure it is important to have a buddy when you travel. Whether you are driving a car or flying, traveling alone can contain some risks. These include faster fatigue, balance or gait issues, or some other rare side effects that your physician went over with you prior to traveling. Having a buddy with you ensures that there is an extra set of eyes to keep you safe.
Keep moving: After any procedure it is important not to sit too long. We want to get up and move every hour or two to keep our blood flowing. This also helps with trying to minimize blood clots, can work to improve swelling, and can keep fluid out of our lungs.
Stay hydrated: This is a tip we all could probably do a better job of. Keeping our fluid intake up after a procedure if key in recovery. It is also another requirement in trying to avoid a blood clot.
Dress appropriately: We want to avoid wearing any restrictive clothing. As we travel and become active we may not be able to control or predict our swelling patterns. Restrictive clothing can be very uncomfortable and hinder blood circulation after surgery. Wear something loose and comfortable.
Avoid stress: Traveling can be stressful, especially if you are on a schedule that you have to keep. Giving yourself extra time to get where you need to go can take some of the stress of traveling.
It is always important to talk to your surgeon about your travel plans to make sure that you know the risks and are aware of any precautions that you need to take. Having these conversations and proper planning can keep you safe and allow you to “let loose” this summer!
References:
https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/when-your-summer-travel-includes-surgery-mayo-clinic-expert-offers-tips-for-a-safe-trip-2/