How to Be More Comfortable Traveling with MS
Summer is almost here! Traveling is one of the most rewarding things in life, but its inevitable stressors can make it feel downright impossible, particularly for people with multiple sclerosis . Take a deep breath, there’s hope! Most of these tips can apply to everyone, but especially when dealing with a chronic illness.
Wheelchair assistance
The absolute best thing you can do if you’re uncomfortable standing and walking is to sign up in advance for free wheelchair assistance through your airline or airport. I did this a few weeks after my MS attack when flying internationally to visit my family for Thanksgiving and it was a lifesaver! They wheel you everywhere you need to go right up until you board the plane. Otherwise:
Avoid standing as much as possible
Arrive early and go straight to your gate to be sure you’ll get a seat.
Always pack something to eat and bring an empty collapsible water bottle (click on the link and enter code MEET10 for 10% off) to fill up right after you go through security. That way you avoid standing in lines for expensive airport food and drinks.
A carry-on rolling bag can be used to sit on, if necessary. They even sell some small enough to count as your personal item instead of a backpack. This takes extra weight off of your back.
Try to get priority boarding, if you can, reducing the chance of standing in long lines while boarding the plane.
Wear flat, comfortable shoes, perhaps with inserts designed for your feet.
Comfort on the plane
Get an aisle seat. I used to refuse to pay extra for an assigned seat. But now I pre-book a seat next to the aisle, preferably on the right side, so I can get up and stretch my left leg (the bad one) when I need to.
Take off your shoes. No shame in getting comfy!
Wear compression socks if they make your feet and legs feel better, especially at high altitudes.
Dress comfortably! Wear layers in case it’s cold or hot. I’ve been on both stiflingly hot and freezing cold planes and, as we know, extreme temperatures affect MS symptoms.
Try to sleep, if at all possible. Use a neck pillow and/or take a sleeping pill, if that’s your thing.
If your eyes bother you, bring eye drops or, if you wear contacts, wear your glasses instead to avoid dry plane eyes.
Address stress and anxiety
Airports and planes are a hotbed of stress and anxiety triggers. The more you can calm your body and mind, the better for your MS.
Fluorescent lighting is everywhere and is jarring to the nervous system. Close your eyes as much as you can; when sitting at the gate and in the plane. A sleep mask can be nice to slip on during the flight.
Earphones with calming music or a podcast you like will block out loud, disturbing noises.
Deep breathe! This is my favorite tool of all time because it can be done anywhere, at any time. Breathe in through your nose, counting to 6. Hold for 4 seconds and then breathe out slowly, counting to 7.
If your doctor has prescribed you an anti-anxiety pill, this might be a good time to take it. It can put you in a calmer state of mind for dealing with the stress of flying.
Traveling by plane may seem daunting when you have MS, but with proper planning, discomfort can be mitigated and good health can be maintained! And then you can simply enjoy your vacation. 😎