Brain Tumour travel insurance

With the right advice and a quality travel insurance policy to match, travelling the world with peace of mind is entirely possible - even with a potentially complex condition such as a brain tumour.

Can you fly with a benign brain tumour?

Though benign brain tumours aren't as serious as cancerous brain tumours, there are still some risks involved when flying with a benign brain tumour - risks that you will need to consider and consult with your doctor about.

Benign brain tumours are a mass of cells that grow relatively slowly in the brain, usually occurring in the tissue that supports nerve cells, and around the base of the brain, among other places. When flying there can be increased risk of cranial swelling in people with brain tumours, and this can lead to unpleasant symptoms and complications.

Cranial swelling

Air pressure and oxygen levels naturally change as the plane reaches higher altitudes, and this can trigger cranial swelling in passengers with brain tumours, leading to headaches, nausea and decreased consciousness.

Increased risk of seizures

The sleep deprivation and oxygen desaturation that is common to long haul flights can end up lowering the seizure threshold. If seizures are a symptom of your brain tumour, then it is worth consulting with your doctor before booking any air travel. An airplane cabin is the worst place to have a seizure, as space is limited.

Tips for travelling with a Brain tumour

Medication - If you need to take medication into the cabin that exceeds the usual volume restriction, you will need to obtain a note from your doctor. Be sure to bring enough medication with you to last the entire trip and possibly longer, in case you are delayed while returning home.

Alcohol - In most cases, it should be perfectly safe for you to drink alcohol in moderation, though you should be mindful of the nature of your personal condition. In many cases, brain tumour sufferers will find that even a small amount of alcohol will leave them with a disproportionately painful hangover. It is worth noting that all insurers (not just us, we promise!) can refuse to pay out on claims if you have a drunken accident, as excessive drinking voids the claim.

Activities - If you have recently been treated for a tumour, it's recommended to avoid all forms of contact sport so bear this in mind when you're planning your holiday activities.

Looking for information regarding a different condition?

Be sure to have a read up on our pre-existing conditions travel insurance.