Karen Posted September 4, 2015 Share Posted September 4, 2015 Posted by Admin on behalf of - Sammy - http://web.behindthegray.net/index.php?/user/1794-sammy/ Hey ..... im back, had a few issues I had to sort out, but getting to the end of my therapy. I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and have had many weeks of therapy which is now coming to an end. I'm feeling a lot more confident and less anxious. We are looking at going abroad in October, it will be the first time I've been abroad since my SAH and I'm feeling a little anxious and concerned as I have a VP shunt fitted as well has having my aneurysm coiled. I could just do with some more reassurance from any of you who have had a shunt fitted and flown. Although I have already gained some info from people on here I just feel that I need a little more assurance from you Many Thanks Sammy. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca Posted September 4, 2015 Share Posted September 4, 2015 Hi Sammy, I don't have a shunt but I was coiled five years ago. I have flown about 20 times since then, both short haul and long haul without any problems. Pressurised cabins have not caused any problems for me. I actually have more problems on the ground with ordinary barometric pressure changes, in particular with drops in air pressure which produces 'muggy' feelings and sometimes a low thumping type of headache but nothing serious. Perhaps others who do have shunts will re-count their experiences for you. If you have any doubts speak to your doctor before you plan your trip. Best wishes Macca Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Daffodil Posted September 4, 2015 Share Posted September 4, 2015 Hey Sammy. Glad you have had some help, it is important to grab all e support out there even if sometimes it's a battle to ask for it. I had PTSD diagnosed also and the counsellinh really helped me. Flying? Well I came on here like you seeking reassurance and found Super Mario flying here there and everywhere and thought, you know what I want to do that too. I have flown twice now , am off again next month and I can honestly say to no Ill effects other than the effort and exhaustion of the travel itself. Top tips from me. Get a letter from your doctor declaring you have a VP shunt and get it translated as well if you can't go through scanners. I was advised not too go through but every shunt is different so you may need to check. Take some good ear plugs and wear them from the moment you get in the terminal. Drink even more water. Suck Polo mints. This one is a gem from WIn. Sucking one of these calms and helps with the takeoff and landing. And wear sunglasses to take the edge off, they may think you are a celeb! Lastly, good insurance is a must , it will cost you a premium I am afraid but well worth it for peace of mind. But other than that enjoy. It's feels good to reclaim some of that previous independence 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Super Mario Posted September 4, 2015 Share Posted September 4, 2015 Sammy, I have lost count of the number of times I have flown since I had my shunt fitted getting on for 12 years ago now. 4/5 times in some years. I have had no ill effects at all. Fly away and enjoy yourself. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Louise Posted September 4, 2015 Share Posted September 4, 2015 Hey Sammy I have a shunt haven't flown yet (no reason just haven't) but there are loads on here who have and their fine hopefully they will reassure you... enjoy yourself. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Samantha Whiting Posted September 4, 2015 Share Posted September 4, 2015 Thank you so much for all your replies, they all mean so much. I have contacted my neurologist and waiting for his feedback, No doubt its going to be the same answer as yours. I'm now looking for holiday insurance's anyone have any advise on companies. once again Thank you xx Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Super Mario Posted September 4, 2015 Share Posted September 4, 2015 I use Unique. Look them up. You have to ring them and you talk to a real person. You cannot apply online with them. In fact avoid trying to get insurance online, you need to be able to explain. I paid £129 in March this year for 12 months insurance with no exclusions, which is cheap as I have heart problems too and had a heart attack in September 2013. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Daffodil Posted September 5, 2015 Share Posted September 5, 2015 Staysure but pricey Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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