DIABETIC
TRAVEL
As soon as you are aware of your travel schedule book a visit
to the doctor or diabetic adviser to ensure you are both aware
of any prior travel arrangements at your destination.
Plan carefully your trip, how long you are away, what type
of activities you will be undertaking and the types of food
available.
When travelling on applying or in a foreign country you will
need to be in possession of documentation advising you are
diabetic and your requirement to carry medication and needles.
Ensure you carry sufficient medication and are aware and
note down the type of medication and dosage. You may need
to supplement this at your destination through a local health
care centre.
Vaccinations and anti malarial tablets should be discussed
with your doctor prior to departure.
You will need travel insurance, you must notify the travel
insurance company of your pre-existing condition otherwise
you may invalidate the insurance. Diabetes UK covers all elements
of your requirements and is a good source of information.
You may find it useful to carry a diabetic identity bracelet
or tag as well carrying medication information.
When travelling on an airline you may pre-order meals and
the flight attendants will always be happy to provide you
with any necessary snacks they have two hand in case of delays
or if you feel that your carbohydrate intake is inadequate.
Insulin medication will be well-known to you but you must
make sure that you carry this with you in your hand luggage.
Medication carried in the hold may be subjected to very low
temperatures are left on the tarmac in very high temperatures.
Also note that depending on where you are on holiday Insulin
absorption may be different due to external temperatures affecting
your body. Adjust insulin times and dosages when you reach
your destination as discussed with your adviser. Check your
blood sugar at regular intervals especially when crossing
time zones as these changes in time can become confusing.
As high numbers of individuals suffer traveler's diarrhoea
this may affect your food intake and hence your blood sugar
levels. Take special care to avoid these situations.
See
more travel health related articles |
