Rheumatoid Arthritis

[vetmadhuri]

Hai everyone,

I am posting this on behalf of my mom, she is suffering from rheumatoid arthritis for almost 8 yrs and her condition has worsened after my father passed away two years back. I am a graduate student staying in USA for past three years. I am planning to bring my mom to USA for six months so that I can take a good care of her. She is also willing to come and stay with me. I am now concerned about the long flight journey she will have to go through from India to USA. Does anyone know if this long journey could affect her health? Has anyone with this condition traveled in flights especially long journeys? Please do respond.

Thanks in advance

[donthomasj]

Dear vetmaduri: Speaking just from a rheumatoid arthritis standpoint, your mom should do fine on the flight. If she is prescribed any pain medicines, she should take them before getting on the plane and make sure to take them as directed throughout her trip. She should also get up and stretch, walk at regular intervals when allowed to do so to decrease pain and stiffness in her knees, hips, and back while she is on the plane. You are very good to send for your mom and take such good care of her. I hope she does well.

[madhurivet]

Thank you very much, your reply post is giving me a lot of courage to do what i am so eagerly looking forward to.

[irunwithscissors]

First when you buy the plane ticket let them mark her as handicapped.She needs a seat at the front of the plane.
Ask them to have a wheelchair attendant waiting at any gate changes
She will need to drink extra water.
She will need to stand up and walk every 45 min. or so.
She must carry her meds with her. Take no chance of lost luggage.
Inform her Dr. about the trip. He may have a med that she can use for such an trip.
Hope you have a wonderful time with your mom.