A stroke can impact many aspects of your life. This includes when you’re able to holiday abroad again – especially by plane. But we believe that everyone has the right to travel, so we’re here to share some tips and tricks so you can continue to go abroad after your stroke.

The NHS and the Stroke Association advise stroke survivors to not fly for two weeks.In some cases, you may have to avoid flying for three months.
In the case of a ‘mini-stroke’ or Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA), you may be able to fly after 10 days as long as you have made a full recovery.

When you have been given the go-ahead for flying, you will still want to minimise the risk of any unexpected issues.

Here are three steps to take before you fly:

Talk to your airline.

It’s important to notify the airline if you have special requirements. If your stroke has left you with reduced mobility, eyesight or speech, you may need assistance at the airport and on the plane.
Tell your airline in advance. They’ll be able to arrange any equipment needed, such as a wheelchair, and they’ll be more understanding during any communication.
You may also be asked by the airline to complete a Medical Information Form (MEDIF) before you fly.

Get Medical Travel Insurance.

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) say that a UK holidaymaker needs emergency medical treatment abroad every 3 minutes!
Yet when you’ve had a stroke, standard policies – like those that come packaged with some bank accounts – might exclude cover for pre-existing medical conditions.
To avoid unexpected medical bills while on holiday, take out specialist stroke Travel Insurance.

Remember your medication.

Be sure you have enough of your prescribed medicines before you head on holiday. Plus, make sure your medicines are in your hand luggage – not your hold baggage! It’s often worth taking a little extra too, in case of delays travelling home.

The main risk of flying after a stroke is developing blood clots, particularly Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
This can cause a Pulmonary Embolism (PE), which is when a clot breaks free and travels to the lungs.
Blood clots can occur when the blood flow is slowed or stopped. Therefore, sitting still for long periods of time during your flight can increase your risk.

When you get the ok to fly, consider these steps to minimise your risk of having blood clots…

• Flight socks: also known as ‘Compression stockings’, these reduce the risk of DVT by gently applying pressure to the leg and therefore increasing blood flow.
• Have you got the right seat? Reserve an aisle seat or pay extra for one with more leg room. That will allow you to stretch your legs during the flight and help reduce your risk of having a DVT.
• Posture: assuming you have booked a seat with extra space, sit up straight and stretch your legs out. Do not cross them.
• Are you wearing the right clothes? Wear loose-fitting items to ensure blood flow is not restricted.
• Exercise: walk around regularly, at least once an hour, or stand for a few minutes. Do stretching exercises, even while seated. Flex your calf muscles, stretch thigh muscles and curl and stretch your toes.
• Fluids: drink lots of water and avoid alcohol, as the latter can dehydrate and cause your blood to thicken.

As a specialist Medical Travel Insurance provider, AllClear has helped cover stroke survivors since 2000. Our award-winning customer service will help you have peace of mind on every trip you take.