All diabetics who travel need to plan and prepare to avoid unnecessary hassles. For the diabetic who just travels in the US, Canada and Western Europe this is not a big deal but going to other places can be difficult because one may not be able to get the proper medical supplies or even the right prescription medications. In many developing countries, the management of diabetic patients is not up to par. In addition, diabetic specialists are rare. Sometimes even the diabetic supplies may be in short supply or prohibitively expensive. Thus, all diabetics should plan their trip to avoid misery in a foreign place.
Prior to traveling to any destination be it local, or abroad, all diabetics should try and visit their doctor and get a thorough check up. This is to ensure that all the blood work is fine and there is no acute condition that is need of any emergent treatment. Diabetics should postpone treatment if there is an acute condition like a foot infection, difficulty urinating, fever, vision problems or chest pain- there is no need to take unnecessary risks.
For travel in the North America and western Europe there is no need for any vaccinations. If you are going for an all inclusive holiday almost anywhere today there is no need for any type of prophylaxis. However, if you plan to go to an endemic area where there is disease, then you need to speak to your provider about vaccinations.
These days crossing customs can be a hassle, especially if you carry medical supplies and medications. So make sure you have a letter from your doctor explaining what disease you have, what supplies you are carrying and the type of medications. Many custom officers have a habit of seizing medications if there is no doctor’s letter. Finally do not forget to ask your doctor about an additional prescription just in case you lose your medications or run out of your medications.
What supplies should a diabetic carry?
Diabetics should carry all the supplies they regularly use at home to manage their diabetes. This includes the following:
Syringes
Insulin
Blood glucose meter
Glucose strips
Alcohol wipes
Lancet
You should always carry enough supplies that will last at least twice the usual amount. The reason is you never know what can happen when you travel. If you are going via air, then you should also carry some supplies with you on-board. Do not put all the supplies in your checked in luggage just in case there is an emergency and you need access to insulin or a syringe.
Upon arrival to the destination, maintain the same routine as you do at home. However, traveling these days is always accompanied by delays- both by car and via air. So if you are a diabetic, you must always take into consideration any time delays and adjust accordingly.
When you do arrive at the airport, do inform the security agent of your health status and what you are carrying. This way the security staff will not throw away your sugary drink or other food items that are used to counter low sugar attacks.
Today, most healthcare professionals recommend that diabetics wear a medical bracelet. This can help alert others in case there is an emergency. Make sure your medical bracelet has your name, medical disorder, and home address.
Whenever you travel at sea or by air, you should try and make a request for a diabetic meal in advance. The good thing is that many airlines now try and accommodate diabetics by serving them first and offering extra sugary drinks in case they are needed.
No matter where you travel, it is important you wear comfortable protective shoes to prevent any type of injury to your feet. In general, traveling in and around north America for diabetics is not an issue because there are hospitals and doctors everywhere. However, if you plan to travel to Asia, Africa or South America, this can present quite a challenge especially if you do not speak the language.
Lastly, always obtain medical insurance if you travel. Please read the fine print to understand what is covered and what is not. A few extra dollars spent on a good medical travel insurance policy can be life saving if you get ill abroad.
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