By Erin Hagan
As the holiday season approaches, many people are prioritizing travel plans to visit family and friends. However, individuals with diabetes may find that preparing for these trips requires substantial effort. With diabetes affecting roughly 1 in 10 Americans, addressing the distinct travel needs associated with this condition becomes all the more crucial.
American Diabetes Month provides a great opportunity to explore strategies for handling diabetes during travel.
Dynarex provides a full line of Diabetes Supplies to help ensure patients have the necessary resources for diabetes management.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that prevents the body from making its own insulin or using insulin effectively. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to dangerously high blood sugar and serious health complications. Therefore, diabetic patients may need to take insulin on a regular basis, to ensure their blood sugar levels remain consistent. This makes planning ahead especially important when preparing for travel.
Diabetes Travel Safety: Tips for a Smooth Journey
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises diabetic patients to create and maintain a kit containing essential items such as insulin and syringes for injections, spare batteries for glucose meters and insulin pumps, as well as secure sharps containers for the reliable disposal of supplies.
Here are some further tips to consider for a safe and pleasant travel experience:
- Prepare for Switching Time Zones. Navigating diabetes across different time zones can be challenging due to the need for a carefully timed medication schedule, especially for insulin. Patients may need to adjust the timing of their insulin doses based on the direction of travel and monitor blood sugar levels more closely. A variety of apps are also available to help check blood glucose levels and track medication schedules while traveling.
- Keep Essential Supplies Close at Hand. Taking a strategic approach to packing diabetic supplies can lower the chances of problems arising due to lost or delayed baggage. Pack essential items, including insulin, glucose monitors, and emergency snacks in a carry-on bag for easy access, while storing non-urgent and backup supplies in checked bags or in the bags of trusted companions.
- Enhance Safety with Accessories. The CDC advises diabetic patients to wear medical ID jewelry containing crucial information about their medical condition—especially when traveling alone. These accessories are available in a variety of styles to cater to individual preferences, such as stainless-steel bracelets, necklaces, active designs, and leather bands. Some pieces even feature QR codes, allowing for quick access to a detailed health profile though a simple Smartphone scan.
Remember, these suggestions are only meant to enhance, not replace, professional medical attention. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and care.
Supporting Diabetic Wellness
American Diabetes Month is the perfect time to shed light on the challenges of managing diabetes, especially during the holiday travel season. Let’s show support by sharing effective tactics with loved ones and communities to help ensure everyone can enjoy their journeys safely and without compromise. Safe travels and happy holidays!
