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Weird question: Does going on an airplane worsen an inguinal hernia ?
Would like to know if it’s risky for someone to go on an airplane if the person has an INGUINAL HERNIA…would it heighten the risk of an incarceration or such ?
thank you for your time.
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10 Replies
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I flew across the country for expert care from Dr. Towfigh. It is definitely worth it to see a specialist. I had several hernias and the only problem with flying was the pain from sitting so long. I got up and walked around and stood as much as possible. After big surgeries I stayed at least a week for a follow up appt and to wait for swelling and pain to lessen. The trip home has been rough due to delays and having to sit up in a cramped space for so long, when I needed to lay down. It is nice to have someone travel with you to help with bags! Best wishes to all having to travel for hernia care!! Finding the right specialist is important. Safe travels!
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I flew from KY to PA with a bulge (Right IH) to get surgery done by Dr Goodyear. I flew back on 3rd day after surgery with the band on surgical site. Flight time was 2.xx hours, nonstop. I could walk with a bit of pain (not from IH but from fresh cut) and took the pain medication Dr. G gave me. I did not experience any problems going or coming back.
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Dr towfigh, thank you for confirming all hernias are ok on an airplane. The information on the internet is confusing at best.
We are fortunate to have your input! -
Most of my patients find it completely worth the trip.
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quote drtowfigh:Nope. No risk.
they are patients who operate from a distant surgeon and travel by airplane, or by train. The question to the surgeon is whether it is appropriate to undergo a long journey to have a tailor-made intervention, and what risks this decision may entail, given that the patient will have to face a return trip after an operation to the abdomen.
worth the effort?? -
All hernias.
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ok by personal experience. Recently diagnosed w/ inguinal hernia. Previously had self-diagnosed as such and unsuccessfully scoured the internet with your same question. The only doctors’ statement found was that it was high risk–being caught in midair in case of serious complication–so they nixed the matter.
From necessity I had to fly doing two 2-hour flights, then a day later, a 13-hour flight followed by its return. Before the first 13-hour flight, I consulted with the only doctor I could but one with my CT scan (for a separate issue). He advised my long flight would be ok (though he was not convinced I had a hernia). After all my flights I had an MRI that confirmed my fear of having one.
I find driving a car more unsettling than flying. I don’t remember any discomfort in the air. (And in my car, not much but only sometimes.)
Please though be careful about handling baggage.
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Dr Towfigh, is this true fir all hernias including femoral?
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Dr. Towfigh,
thank you for answering this question, I had presumed it would be an issue and I am relieved to know otherwise. -
Nope. No risk.
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