The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 37 million US women, men, and children have some form of diabetes. To stabilize your blood sugar and preserve your health, you must adopt lifestyle changes and habits that ideally become second nature.
Travel, though, can throw anyone off-kilter. When you have diabetes — whether it’s type 1 or 2 or even gestational diabetes — finding time and ways to take care of yourself are even more challenging.
At Midwest Regional Health Services in Omaha, Nebraska, our team of expert physicians helps you stabilize your blood sugar if you have diabetes and support you with information to keep yourself healthy. Whether you’re taking a road trip, cruise, or a flight, here are five important tips that help when you’re traveling with diabetes.
As soon as you book your tickets, give us a call. We can provide you with a letter that explains what your diabetes medications are and how you take them. If you need insulin injections or oral medications, or medical equipment such as monitoring devices, the letter assures security personnel that you have the right to board the plane or ship with them.
We can also write you a back-up prescription, which you keep on your person, in case your luggage is lost, damaged, or stolen. However, we also recommend that you pack some supplies in a carry-on bag, if possible, so you always have what you need at hand.
Also let us know if you’re crossing time zones. If your new location differs by two or more hours from your home time zone, we can help you plan how to alter your insulin injection schedule.
As you’re planning, make a list of all of the items you need to take to manage your diabetes, whether that means snacks, supplements, or insulin. Check the items off the list as you pack to ensure you don’t forget anything. You may also want to pack extra, in case you’re waylaid at a location longer than expected.
Keep the manufacturer’s label on all medical supplies and medications. Pack your diabetes supplies — such as blood glucose meter, insulin, syringes, and cold packs — in a carry-on or purse.
If you’re at an airport, inform the security team that your glucose monitor or insulin pump shouldn’t be X-rayed. Request a hand inspection of your carry-on.
If you won’t be cooking on your trip, research the restaurants that you’re likely to use when driving, flying, or cruising. Examine their menus and decide ahead of time what items match your diet.
As part of your supplies, pack healthy snacks and glucose tablets. Flying is especially dehydrating. Carry a reusable water bottle and keep it full so you stay hydrated. You can also ask for extra water on your plane or train.
Be sure that the airline, cruise ship, train, or bus company knows that you have diabetes. Inform them about any equipment and medications you may need. If you hire a travel agent, they may be able to take care of the alerts for you.
For each location you’ll be visiting, find out where the nearest pharmacies and medical facilities are in case you have a crisis. Wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace, and be sure your phone has updated medical info.
When you have diabetes, you’re at increased risk for peripheral neuropathy, which means decreased sensation in your feet. You may also be more prone to swelling that sometimes occurs during air travel.
Use compression socks when you’re flying. They can also help keep your feet and legs comfortable when you’re walking on tours or just traveling.
Be sure to inspect your feet daily for cuts or blisters. Wear comfortable shoes and socks to protect your feet; avoid sandals or flip flops unless you’re on the beach or at the pool. Wash and dry your feet thoroughly every day.
Enjoy your travels, despite your diabetes, by getting the care, medications, and tips you need now to stay safe on your journey. Contact our caring team by phone or online form for help with diabetes today.
