Planning ahead is what makes a trip successful. That is especially true for diabetics who need to account for their condition when planning a trip. Here are a few pointers on what dos and don’ts you need to remember if you are a diabetic and are planning a trip.
Dos:
Inform your travel agent of your condition and special requirements
A good travel agent can provide you with all the information you need to get through a trip successfully without aggravating your condition. Remember to inform your agent of the severity of your condition along with special considerations. With this information, your travel agent would be able to plan an itinerary that ensures that you eat at specified intervals and that whenever you need to take your medication or insulin; you are at a place that allows you to do so comfortably.
Plan a check up before the trip
Getting a checkup before taking a trip can significantly cut down the risk of you falling ill or aggravating your condition. This should comprise of a foot checkup and blood glucose test at the very least. Your doctor might also be able to recommend special medication to deal with the side effects of an altered daily schedule.
Carry a copy of your prescriptions
In case you are not allowed to check any kind of medication in your luggage or bring it into another country, you need to carry a copy of your prescription and get the necessary medications as soon as you can. You can ask the medical or emergency staff at airports to suggest the closest pharmacy that may fill your prescription.
Don’ts:
Don’t forget to carry written document stating your need to carry insulin and syringes on board
Some countries and most airlines do not permit medication and syringes to be taken aboard. You can either carry a written document from your doctor stating your need to carry these on board or you might need to ask the airline to provide you with insulin and syringes.
Don’t forget to test blood glucose levels every few hours
Travel throws your regular eating routine and activity level off gear. You can never be entirely sure of how your body would respond to this. A good way to keep your blood glucose in check is to keep checking it every few hours especially if your travels have you indulging in a lot of physical activity.
Don’t forget to drink your carbs
If you cannot stick to your usual meal plan during travel, you need to remember to at least consume at least 15 grams of carbs per hour. You can consume these carbs through protein bars or caffeine free sugar free fluids like smoothies.