Travel Tips for Chronic Illness
When you’re looking forward to an upcoming trip with friends or family, the last thing you may want to think about is managing your chronic illness. Wouldn’t it be nice to totally check out? Unfortunately the reality is we can’t take a vacation from our chronic conditions. But that does not have to deter you from enjoying your time on a vacation or make you fear traveling. In fact there are things you can do to be well prepared and have an incredible trip no matter what your condition may be. We’ve created a quick guide to get you prepped and ready to travel with confidence!
Before you travel:
Inform your care team. It always helps to speak to your doctor or other members of your care team about travel plans so they can advise you ahead of time. You may also need certain vaccinations, medication refills, or special devices to last you through your travels. Also understand that it is possible that your doctor may not recommend travel and to take their advice seriously, if so.
Understand your individual risk. Chronic illnesses are very different in their symptoms and risk factors so make sure you consider how your diagnosis affects you and make a plan to prevent any flare ups that could occur.
Travel with someone familiar with your condition. Not only is it nice to have a companion, but it’s important to travel with someone who knows your condition well and can advocate on your behalf in the case of an emergency. Whether or not you are able to travel with someone who is aware of your condition, the Chronius App can be a great place to hold your medical records and other crucial information so others can be made aware.
Make a list of healthcare providers you can call in case of an emergency in the country or state you will be traveling to.
While you’re traveling:
Take walks or stretch your legs at least once an hour. Because certain conditions may make your prone to blood clots and swollen legs, it’s important to stretch your body as much as possible to prevent issues with blood circulation. If traveling on a plane, you can also perform leg lifts in your seat to make sure that all parts of your body have an adequate amount of blood flowing.
Bring an NSAID on your trip (if advised by a doctor) to manage any symptoms that may emerge.
Have comfort items easily accessible. If flying on a plane, be sure to keep all of your essentials like water, compression, medications and a travel pillow or support braces on your person. If traveling by car, you might want to have a tote or basket with these items easily in reach from your seat.
During your trip:
Take your medications. It’s easy to forget while enjoying your travels, so setting an alarm for your medications works as a helpful reminder to take them. Also consider any time zone differences there may be.
Continue your treatment plan. This includes any dietary modifications or exercise recommendations made by your doctor. Give yourself grace, but remember that healing is a journey that you need to prioritize. It is never fun to feel poorly while being away from home!
Try not to spend too much time in the sun. The sun can leave you feeling dehydrated and can also increase your risk of a flare ups so make sure to bring sunglasses, hats, etc and find shade when you can. Also, bring a refillable water bottle wherever you go to prevent dehydration.
Products to consider:
Compression socks- When flying, compression socks are great at stimulating circulation in your legs and calves.
Travel pillow & Blanket - When traveling in the car for long periods of time, a pillow and blanket can provide support and comfort for travel allowing you to get some extra rest before heading into your vacation.
Instant Cold packs- These are great in case of injury or inflammation and can soothe your pain temporarily.
Massage Ball- To help alleviate muscle tension or tightness from long periods of sitting while traveling
Eye Mask- To block out light during travel or at your destination. It is important for those of us with chronic conditions to get quality rest even while on vacation!
Lastly, the most important reminder:
Have fun! Having a chronic illness can be hard work. Caring for yourself constantly can be tedious and feel like a full time job but making time to have fun and enjoy yourself with family and friends is not only good for your overall happiness, but it’s good for your health as well.
