Managing diabetes often involves closely monitoring blood sugar levels and administering medications, which can be difficult when traveling. However, people with diabetes can fly safely and enjoy their vacations with proper planning.
Type 1 diabetes is a condition that affects the body’s ability to process glucose in the blood, resulting in too much sugar in the blood. It occurs when the body does not produce enough of the hormone insulin or cannot respond to it properly.
A person with diabetes may need to follow a strict monitoring regimen to help control their blood sugar levels.
Many aspects of travel, such as flying, delayed meals, unfamiliar foods, warmer climates, higher activity levels, and being in different time zones, can alter diabetes control. However, with careful planning, a person with diabetes can relax and enjoy all of their travel experiences.
In this article, we suggest tips and guidelines that will be helpful for those living with type 1 diabetes who plan to travel.
Some helpful steps to take before you travel include:
schedule a follow-up appointment with a healthcare professional to make sure the person is in good control of their diabetes, is in good health to travel, and is up-to-date on their travel vaccinations ask a doctor how certain activities can affect diabetes, and if the person needs to adjust their insulin doses due to different time zones ask a doctor for a prescription for any medications and the trade names of the medications in different countries get a letter from the doctor stating that the person has diabetes and needs their supplies doctors research the vacation destination and note the location of the nearest pharmacies and clinics wear a medical identification bracelet or other form of jewelry that indicates the person has diabetes and mentions any other health conditions, if applicable purchase travel insurance that provides coverage in case the person loses their belongings or requires care n medical remember to keep snacks nearby and in a carry-on bag in case the person suddenly needs to correct a hypoglycemic episode
The following tips may also be helpful when it comes to packing:
If flying, a person can bring their diabetes-related supplies, equipment, and medications on the plane, and this can include liquids, such as insulin and gels, in excess of 3.4 ounces. It is advisable to pack insulin in hand luggage, as it can freeze in the baggage hold, altering its effectiveness. A person may also wish to purchase a cooler bag to ensure insulin is kept at an appropriate temperature and to check that their destination has a refrigerator to store supplies. It is recommended that a person pack about twice as many supplies as he thinks he will need. If possible, they should also pack them in separate carry-on bags in case of loss or theft. Some medical devices may not be able to pass through the airport x-ray machine without damage. As such, a person may need to request a manual inspection. A person may inform a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officer of any medical device or equipment prior to the screening process. Medical equipment and supplies may need to undergo a separate assessment. To help TSA officers, a person can arrive early, print prescription labels, and pack the medications in a separate clear sealable bag.
When traveling by one form of transportation, such as an airplane, some helpful tips include:
It is recommended that a person set alarms on their phone or other device in case they fall asleep on the flight. This can ensure that they do not fall asleep during mealtimes or medication times. Alternatively, they can ask the airline crew for help. When on an airplane, it’s important for a person to check their blood sugar levels often. This may be easier with the use of a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Depending on their destination, a person may need to adjust the frequency and size of their insulin doses. It’s important to make sure insulin, snacks and other diabetes equipment are easily accessible in carry-on luggage and at the right temperature. A person should be careful to stay active while in transit and wear compression stockings to help prevent blood clots. If possible, they should reserve an aisle seat so they can easily get up to walk while on the plane.
People with diabetes will also need to consider how to manage the condition once they have arrived at their destination. The following strategies can help:
It is important to measure blood glucose routinely and consistently. Multiple factors, such as unfamiliar foods, different amounts of activity, travel stress, jet lag, and disruption of usual routine can affect blood glucose levels. Individuals should correct blood glucose as appropriate. Eating items that can upset your stomach can make it harder to control your blood glucose. Therefore, it is sensible to be extremely cautious with food and drink. It can be difficult to control diabetes in warmer climates. Therefore, it is advisable to drink plenty of water, limit alcohol and caffeine, wear appropriate clothing, and keep medications, supplies, and equipment out of the heat. In addition to cooler bags, it’s important to have conveniences like a refrigerator to store supplies. People should always wear proper footwear, especially at the beach, and check their feet regularly for injuries or cuts. It may be advisable to learn some useful phrases in the local language, if it is different, such as “I have diabetes” and “where is the nearest pharmacy?” It is also important to note that the names of diabetes medications may be different in other countries.
Type 1 diabetes does not have to be an obstacle that prevents a person from traveling. With careful planning, preparation, and packing, a person can relax and enjoy all the exciting experiences of their trip.
As long as a person plans carefully and makes sure they have easy access to all of their medical supplies, they can safely monitor their blood sugar levels while traveling.
Source: www.medicalnewstoday.com