Tips for traveling with a chronic illness
MUNCIE, Ind. – Did you know that six out of 10 adults in the U.S. have a chronic disease. Travel plans don’t need to stop just because you or someone you know has a chronic illness. To provide accommodations for your friend, family member, or partner, check out the information below on how to travel with a chronic illness.
What is a chronic illness?
A chronic illness is broadly defined as a condition that lasts one or more years and requires continuous medical attention, or a limit to daily living activities. Common chronic illnesses can include heart disease, cancer, diabetes, asthma and more.
Is it safe to travel with an illness?
Normally, somebody shouldn’t travel when sick. But chronic illnesses work a little differently. Most aren’t contagious and won’t prevent you from your travel plans. However, all illnesses are different, so monitor the severity of yours before making travel plans. Consult your healthcare provider before booking any hotels.
Once you have travel plans, meet with your healthcare provider to discuss all your risk factors. For example, airplane travel can increase the risk of blood clots. Flights longer than four hours can increase your risk of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. If your chronic disease also puts you at a higher risk for blood clots, consult your healthcare physician on the severity of your case. During travel, get up and move, to avoid remaining stationary for too long.
Will a chronic illness impact my vacation travel plans?
Remember that illnesses don’t take vacations. If you are unable to do something at home, you won’t be able to do it on vacation. Plan adventures and outings that meet your abilities. Continue to practice healthy eating habits and exercise regularly. If your doctor prescribes medicine for you, continue to take it as directed during your trip.
What are some preventative measures to take before traveling?
Make sure to talk with your healthcare provider before a big trip, especially one out of the country. During your appointment, discuss the primary risks involved, what immunizations and medications you will need, and prepare for those steps. Be sure to receive your required prescriptions before your trip. Counterfeit drugs can be common in some countries, so pack enough medication to last throughout your trip. Some medications (such as insulin) need to be refrigerated; be sure you are staying in a location that can accommodate.
Do research on your health insurance and purchase a travel insurance plan if necessary.
What type of travel insurance is available?
If you visit another country and need medical care, you will likely have to pay out-of-pocket for the services. Check your current health insurance plan to see if it covers emergencies while traveling. If yours doesn’t, consider a short-term supplemental policy that makes payments directly to hospitals (to avoid scams).
What should I include on a medical card?
Keeping your medical information with you is helpful in case you end up in a medical emergency away from your doctors. Make sure to write the information in English and if possible, in the local language. Include on the card your health conditions and a list of your current medications with dosage amounts. If you have an iPhone, you can include this in your medical ID in your contacts. In some cases, wearing a medical alert bracelet or jewelry can also be useful.
For people with serious chronic illnesses, bring a copy of your x-rays, most recent lab results, and a recent electrocardiogram (ECG). These documents can be helpful to healthcare workers who may need to treat you away from home.
Carly Chapman, PGY3 is a healthcare physician at Indiana University Health – Muncie. Learn more at iuhealth.org.
This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Tips for traveling with a chronic illness
