Autoimmune conditions cause your immune system to fight the healthy cells within your body, which weakens your body’s ability to function. There are over 100 autoimmune conditions — including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, celiac, and others — and 34% of the population is affected by more than one.
Traveling with autoimmune conditions is more difficult, as there are many moving parts to consider, from managing fatigue and flare-ups to mitigating infection risks. But don’t let the challenge put you off going on vacation. Keep reading to learn common concerns and questions you may have if traveling with an autoimmune condition.
How can I best prepare for a trip with my autoimmune condition?
Before traveling away from home, it’s important to talk to your doctor to ensure that you’re fit to travel and that you’ll be taken care of while on the trip. Three key things to do:
- Consult your doctor: A month or two before your scheduled travel, check in with your physician to ensure you’re fit to travel, are up to date on vaccines, and understand how to adjust your meds to the time zone.
- Stock up on your prescriptions: Staying consistent with your medication is essential to managing your autoimmune condition. When preparing to travel, ensure you get necessary prescriptions, especially for injectables or controlled substances that might be difficult to get elsewhere.
- Research healthcare facilities at your destination: It’s important to know where you can turn for care when you’re away from loved ones and your care team. Before traveling, check to see what healthcare facilities are accessible nearby and can provide the care you might need in an emergency.
How do I manage my medications for my trip?
Managing your medications is crucial to keeping your autoimmune condition under control when traveling. Some tips for managing your meds on your trip:
- Pack extra meds: Whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, anything can happen (e.g., your flight could be delayed, your luggage could be lost, etc.), so pack more than enough meds in their original container. For easy access, carry them in your carry-on.
- Understand storage requirements: Make note of the ideal storage requirements for your medications. While many are fine in your bag or pockets, some medications like insulin must be kept cool in an insulated tote or cooling case.
- Plan for time zone changes: Some medications need to be taken relative to the time of your last dose. If you are traveling to a different time zone, you may need to adjust the timing of your medication and set reminders so your dosages are timely.
How can I avoid autoimmune flare-ups while traveling?
Autoimmune conditions like arthritis can present a few additional challenges when traveling, but these can be overcome by paying attention to your body, managing stress, and keeping your hands clean. Here are some tips:
- Pace yourself: Avoid trying to cram everything into a short amount of time. Do activities at a leisurely pace so you don’t spend the rest of the trip recovering.
- Manage stress: Stress can exacerbate your symptoms, so practice mindfulness and gentle movement so you can stay present and grounded in your experience.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can trigger a flare-up of certain autoimmune conditions like lupus and gout. Drink lots of water to help reduce inflammation and keep your trip fun.
- Be mindful of your diet: Half the fun of traveling is trying new foods, but be sure to check the labels and ask questions to avoid eating foods that will lead to a flare-up.
- Protect yourself from infections: Wash your hands, carry hand sanitizer, and wear a mask in crowds so you can prevent contracting infections from common viruses.
- Be sun smart: Some autoimmune conditions can worsen with sun exposure, so take precautions: apply sunscreen, wear sun-protective clothes, and stay in the shade when possible.
Some flare-ups can be avoided by staying hydrated, staying away from certain foods, and protecting yourself from the sun. Others, however, require a plan, medication, and access to medical care. Here are some ways to be prepared for a flare-up:
- Know what a flare-up looks like: Knowing what a flare-up feels like lets you address it more quickly with stress management (e.g., mindfulness and movement) or medication (like antibiotics and steroids, if prescribed), and avoid situations that would trigger a flare.
- Have a plan: Being prepared for a flare-up also allows you to tend to your symptoms quickly. Have a plan, keep necessary medications on hand, and develop healthy coping mechanisms for treating a flare-up.
- Access medical care: Whether it’s a healthcare provider at your destination or your doctor back home, know how to contact a physician who can help you treat your flare-ups.
Is travel insurance necessary?
Travel insurance isn’t mandatory, but it can help you get access to the resources and care you need in case of a medical emergency while traveling. It’s crucial to get a policy that specifically covers pre-existing autoimmune conditions for cancellations and medical emergencies abroad. If you’re traveling with an autoimmune condition, travel insurance provides peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your trip while knowing you’ll be taken care of no matter what. You can also see if your Medicare Supplement policy covers care while abroad.
*Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical consultation or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
United Medicare Advisors does not endorse or recommend any specific products, treatments, or procedures mentioned in this article. Reliance on any information provided in this blog post is solely at your own risk. We encourage you to discuss any health concerns or questions with your doctor before making any decisions about your health or treatment.
