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I have polycythemia Vera and want to know whether it is safe to fly from UK to Barbados?

Posted , 3 users are following.

anne1609
anne1609

I have had PCV for over a year now and quite annoyed that my symptoms were overlooked at the GP's. I have itching of the skin after bathing, very tired, had many hot sweats and my nose has

been red for a number of years. My GP said that I am having hot sweats because of the

menopause, gave me prescription of iron tablets of 500 gm per day and ignored my other issues. Eventually I went to a new GP at the surgery who sent me for a blood test and eventually I was

diagnosed with PCV. At first I was very scared and couldn't stop crying as I thought I was going to die within the next few months but eventually have come to terms with it. My consultant told me to stop the iron tablets at once as it was making the situation worse. I had weekly venesections and

eventually my blood count has got under control. Now have monthly visits to the hospital and have blood tests to check everything OK. I have not told my children who are 29 and 30 years old as I

don't want to upset them and my 29 year old is getting married in Barbados soon. Would like

advise as to whether I should tell them or not as I don't want to upset them. Also want to know if I

go to sons wedding in Barbados would I be able to fly safely

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • david02304
    david02304 anne1609

    Posted

    I have had PV for 4 years. I have flown across the atlantic since then. I take my Asprin and wear flight socks, I have had no problems. My consultant has not told me to avoid flying, check with your consultant

     

    • anne1609
      anne1609 david02304

      Posted

      Thanks for your reply. I can now look forward to going to the Wedding.
  • harrishill1
    harrishill1 anne1609

    Posted

    Yes, Anne, you shd tell the kids. We can live a normal life span with this PV. My hematologist said I could travel, and I have, I am 71, and getting lots of exercise with PV. I usually feel well, sometimes take a nap, but feel great. Good luck, and hope you go to the wedding.

    Marla, Harris22

    • anne1609
      anne1609 harrishill1

      Posted

      Hi thanks for getting back to me.  I am going to tell them this weekend. Have been putting it off for so long as I know they will be upset but will explain things to them.  I thought I had come to terms with it but still get upset. Soft so and so aren't I?
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