Flying after a stroke, any doctors in the house?
 

Elderly passenger flies 13 hours direct to Asia in business class. 24 hours after arriving has a headache, takes an aspirin and lies down. Wakes up a few hours later with no headache but side vision impaired in left eye. Goes to hospital, CT scan reveals an intracerebral hemorrage affecting the portion of the brain that controls vision (all other bodily functions 100% normal). Patients receives treatment (daily IV of 250 ml of Sodium Chloride 0.9% and 250ml of Glycerol & Fructose) and rest in hospital for 3.5 weeks. Weekly CT scans shows steady improvement and the patient walks 30 - 40 minutes daily in 5 - 10 minute intervals (could do more but wanted to not over exert) over the last several days. Passenger's weight, blood pressure, temperature, cholestrol levels fully normal prior/during/after the incident.

Is this passenger ready to fly home direct in business class with a nurse escort 3.5 weeks after the initial incident? Any general rules regarding recovering after a stroke and air travel?

Only a doctor will be able to give a reliable answer.

Another aspect you should consider:

Many airlines have a clause in their T&C that pax who have had a stroke/heart attack etc. will need to contact the airline in advance and seek permission to fly. I´d definitely recommend getting an official medical certificate from the hospital that the pax is fit to fly, as he may otherwise be liable for any costs resulting from a medical emergency, diversion etc.

The passenger should consult his/her doctor and not rely on an internet message board.

i agree....

I am an MD and I would recommend following the advice that others have already given... talk to your own doctor. It's difficult to answer any question (especially one like this) without knowing the full history and having access to imaging and laboratory findings. There are many reasons that one would be advised not to fly, including because of having a propensity to form clots, not being able to handle the lower oxygen levels, not being able to sit for long periods of time, etc, so it really varies on a case-by-case basis. Good luck.

As there is a consensus that the best medical advice is given by one's personal physician & not on an IBB, I am locking this Thread.
Good luck...
Obscure2k
TravelBuzz Moderator