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Traveling Abroad on Tamoxifen with side effects
I was planning to travel abroad, after many years of hiatus. After speaking with my oncology team, they said I have be careful with blood clots. And said I should not stop Tamoxifen. I am now leary of flying, unsure what issues I may encounter while flying and during my EU stay. I will be flying solo.
Question - Can I travel abroad while taking Tamoxifen? What are the risks? Should I get travel insurance if I become ill?
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hi @malebreastcancer47 - did your oncology team have any guidance about flying/travel? perhaps breaking up the trip into shorter legs would be helpful. I have lung cancer and went to Europe last summer from the West Coast. I flew to Iceland first to keep flying hours in single digits and then carried on after a couple days of rest. I used compression stockings on the plane. I also wore a N95 respirator on the plane and in public indoor spaces. Unless your employer or your current medical insurance has coverage for you abroad, I strongly recommend you get travel insurance. I use World Nomads. I had a terrific time on my trip - it was very much worth it! Unless your care team advises otherwise, I would encourage you to travel if you want to - just with some extra protections for your health.
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1 ReactionI flew to Europe from the Midwest 4 times and to both US coasts multiple times. Never had a problem.
DO wear compression socks and try to walk around a bit.
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2 ReactionsI am taking Tamoxifen, did either of you take this drug or similar while flying?
I would like to stop the medication but Mayo said No.
@malebreastcancer47
Yes I was on tamoxifen.
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2 Reactions@denzie I have not flow to EU since 2009. I want to visit relatives in Lux. I was afraid the flight to Frankfurt would cause issues. Rather than fly to Lux, my cousin would meet me in Frankfurt, we would take the train back to Lux. I hear EU trains are quite comfortable.
I think a med I will pause is mounjaro, its side effects can also hurt.
Appreciate the feedback.
@malebreastcancer47
Moin! Wéi geet et!
Whether you take Mounjaro for diabetes or weight loss you should be ok. My cousin sometimes gets stomach aches with it. But has not had any other issues with it despite her IBS.
I love Luxembourg. That is where each of my European trips have been. My friends live in Frisange and Remich.
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2 Reactions@malebreastcancer47 I take Tagrisso - which has lots of side effects, but not extra risk for blood clots. If that's your primary concern, do your best to avoid COVID, which also causes blood clots. I hope you figure out a system that will work well for you to take your trip. 🙂
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1 ReactionThe feedback has been helpful. Agreed, covid would be worst.
Plus being on 10 mg of Tamoxifen is also better, as I am less drowsy, fatigued.
Need to take precautions and hope for the best.