Flying and hyperbaric oxygen treatment
Has anyone's MS been affected by flights? I used to fly a lot and apart from normal tiredness was unaffected. Since the dx, I've done three long-haul flights and have had problems. It was't just the sitting for ages stiffening up. I get the most horrendous jetlag (NEVER had that before) and when I reach my destination, I start with sensory symptoms that pretty much go on till I'm back home. It doesn't happen with shorter flights or even long car journeys. On the Shift MS research blog for August I read a research article about lack of oxygen being bad for damaged nerves and I wonder if that's the cause, as oxygen levels are lower on planes. It also makes me wonder if hyperbaric oyxgen treatment (which I've never tried) could actually work.
I get a similar thing with regards to the jet lag. Travel really exasperates my fatigue and i get a lot of pain as well as travel sickness. I dont know how practice it is for you but i find if i can sleep through most of the journey (with sleeping pills) that helps. Also breaking up the journey can help eg rather than flying direct on a long haul flight take shorter flights and stay overnight somewhere- practicle for holidays but i realise not for buisness. with regards to hyperbaric oxygen treatment i haven't tried it yet as its a big commitment but i know some people swear by it and other people say it doesnt make any difference. I think it cant hurt to try. Good luck xxx
Im starting HOT soon so when i meet up with the lady ill let you know how it is or going sian x