Eight Summer Travel Tips for Chronic Disease Patients
With summer upon us, most of us are thrilled about the prospect of spending more time outdoors soaking up the sun.
However, for many Americans with chronic illnesses, the long hot days mean more frequent flareups, and exacerbated symptoms, including pain, extreme fatigue, photosensitivity, and headaches.
Fortunately, recent advancements in the treatment of chronic diseases make it possible for patients to travel and enjoy the summer months more easily as long as they do some thorough planning.
Here are some Summer Travel Tips for Chronic Disease Patients to help patients attain some symptom relief and be able to travel and enjoy the summer activities.
1. Speak to Your Primary Care Physician
Some travel destinations and outdoor activities may not be considered safe for chronic disease patients.
Therefore, it is highly advisable to discuss any travel plans with a doctor before embarking on your journey.
Physicians can provide helpful suggestions to reduce the risk of flareups, as well as write the necessary prescriptions and reschedule infusion treatment sessions to accommodate your travel plans.
2. Start Preparing Weeks in Advance
Most patients with a chronic illness have well-established routines that include medication schedules, feeding times, and resting periods.
By analyzing the daily routine, patients can easily make a list of the equipment, supplies, and medications they need to pack for their trips.
It is always better to prepare and pack for a worst-case scenario. Take extra medication and supplies in case your trip gets delayed for a few days. Pack an extension cord if any of your medical equipment needs electricity, this way you won’t have to worry about the location of the power outlet in your room.
3. Ensure Your Travel Accommodations Fit Your Needs
Not all hotels or vacation rentals are suited to the needs of a patient. Because of this, it’s a good idea to call and explain your room requirements before you arrive.
4. Inquire About Medication and Equipment Conditions or Restrictions
If your travel plans include airplane flights, you need to make sure you know about any conditions or restrictions involving medical equipment, supplies, and medications have.
You can consult the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website to help you plan and get through the security screening without delays.
5. Arrange for Airport Assistance in Advance
If you have mobility limitations, you can speak to the airline and request wheelchair assistance in advance.
6. Plan for an Emergency
There are many things to consider when planning your trip, including booking a hotel that is close to hospitals or clinics.
You should keep the addresses and phone numbers of nearby hospitals in case you need emergency medical attention.
If you are traveling abroad, we highly recommend you purchase a travel medical insurance that covers your condition.
7. Set Realistic Expectations for Yourself
If your trip includes any physically taxing activities, try spacing them by having more restful days in between.
Remember to listen to your body and be flexible. If you’re having a tough day health-wise, don’t force yourself. It is better to stay at the hotel resting than risk suffering a health complication.
8. Adhere to Your Diet and Stay Hydrated
Many patients with chronic illnesses have certain foods that can trigger their symptoms. If part of your treatment plan involves diet, try to stick to it as much as possible while traveling.
Meal planning can be beneficial, particularly if you’re traveling to a different country.
Familiarize yourself with the cuisine and the dining options in the area where you’ll be staying and make sure you’ll be able to find foods that are consistent with your doctor’s recommendations.
Staying hydrated during your vacation is also important. Try to avoid sugary or alcoholic beverages and choose to drink water when possible.
Keep these eight Summer Travel Tips for Chronic Disease Patients in mind to enjoy a safe, happy and healthy summer.
Every patient experiences their illness differently, which is why personalized biologic treatments are so important.
The services provided by Altus Infusion to specialty doctors across the country are instrumental in improving the quality of life of countless patients. Speak to your doctor to see how biologics can help manage your illness.
