Special Considerations for travelers with a chronic medical condition.
It's important to make sure that all your chronic medical conditions are well controlled before you leave. Before planning your trip it's important to determine the safety of your trip and what medical resources are closely available to you and many things need to be factored in. Consider medical and evacuation insurance to get you the help you need if you medical conditions become unstable or if you are injured. Also check with the American Embassy or Consulate to clarify any medication restrictions to you planned destinations.
Pack medications and supplies in your carry on. Make sure you have enough for your trip and a few extras for any unexpected delays. Make sure medications are in their original containers. Ask a health care professional about timing of your medications when crossing time zones.
Wearing a medical alert bracelet is helpful and carry detailed medical information. Packing a healthy kit is also very helpful.
If you have...
*cancer
* cardiovascular disease, heart failure, heart valve problems, uncontrolled hypertension or arythemias.
* severe or unstable asthma or COPD, recent lung injuries, or need supplemental oxygen or recent chest surgery.
*abdominal surgery, gastrointestinal bleeding, partial bowel obstruction, or liver problems.
* kidney failure or chronic kidney insufficiency.
*diabetes
* severe or allergic reactions.
* autoimmune or rheumatological disease or on any immune compromising medications.
You should discuss your plans with a travel expert.
These conditions can affect what immunizations you may need as well as which ones that you may not be able to have. Some medications and supplies may require a letter from a health care professional stating the need to carry with you, such as in the case of controlled substances
. Arrangements may need to be made for treatments and supplies such as with dialysis or oxygen. Depending on your conditions considerations will be given in regards to which medications can and not be used for conditions as as malaria prevention and treatment.
Its important to consider potential resources needed and those available to determine if one is able to travel safely. Travel experts can work with your and medical providers to determine how best to keep you safe and healthy for travel.
