Is it safe to fly in an aeroplane after having recently having a stroke.

Hi Karina,

Thank you for your question. Sorry to hear about your stroke. You will need medical clearance to fly after stroke as each situation is different. Generally, flying is allowed after approximately 2 weeks if there are no complications or specific risks based on your medical history. All major airlines for long haul flights have pressurised cabins and there is very little evidence available that flying increases your risk of stroke after the two week period. Getting up and moving regularly on the flight when safe to do so, staying well hydrated and ensuring you take any medication (taking into account time differences) are important considerations.

If you were an anxious flyer prior to your stroke, you may decide to make a personal decision not to put yourself through additional stress at this time. We recommend you discuss flying with your GP or neurologist before making a decision as they know your full medical history. If you do decide to go you will need to investigate and arrange travel insurance. 

You might like to read more about travel/flying after stroke here and there is also good information on the Stroke Association UK website here. 

Here are some insurance companies that other stroke survivors have reported using for overseas travel:

All Clear

https://www.allcleartravel.com/au/CGI-BIN/LANSAWEB?PROCFUN+ALCTRV+STRN001+AUS+ENG

Ph: 02 9333 3922

Covermore

https://www.covermore.com.au/?gclid=CI6TppipmcoCFUiSvQodcEEDvA

Ph. 1300 72 88 22

Insure and go

http://www.insureandgo.com.au/travel-insurance/pre-existing-medical-conditions.html

Apia

http://www.apia.com.au/travel-insurance

Ph. 13 50 50

1Cover

https://www.1cover.com.au/

Please find a conversation on overseas travel and a blog post on All Clear on enableme.

If you would like to discuss further don't hesitate to reply or call us on StrokeLine on 1800 787 653.

Best wishes,

Simone (StrokeLine)