Tips for travelling with Cancer

People traveling with Cancer have to be extra careful, be it for treatment or for pleasure, travelling can be safe and pleasurable if you plan correctly. Cancer patients are vulnerable to infection, swelling, blood clots and fatigue.  The symptoms varies from one person to person; however, a few tips might help to reduce the risk. First off schedule an appointment and discuss your travel plans with your doctor, especially if you’ve had surgery. Many doctors don’t recommend travelling right after the operation for at least two weeks.

Medical Care at Your Destination

Identify contacts of healthcare providers near your destination, before you depart. Your treating oncologist may have recommendations about hospitals around the area where you shall be traveling. Keep your treating oncologist’s number handy, in case you need to contact the clinician in case of emergency.

Medical Records, Medications and International Travel

Keep a copy of your recent medical records when you travel, as it will assist the healthcare provider unfamiliar with your case or medical history. If you’re undergoing chemotherapy, get a copy of the latest lab reports along with oxygen readings. Ideally patients travel with an attendant, if you’re travelling along, there are medical bracelets available in the market which store vital information like emergency numbers and diagnosis. With international travel meticulously review the medications as some even OTC medications are illegal in a few countries, for instance Adderall is illegal in Japan and Codeine is illegal in Hong Kong and Greece.

Make sure to carry enough medications which cover the duration of your trip, and a few extras in case of a delay. Pack your medication in your carry-on bag, just in case the luggage goes missing. Make a list of all of your medication and keep it handy. If you are traveling overseas, make sure you have the generic name of the drugs listed, as well as the brand name, as they can vary from country to country.

Health Insurance

Check with your insurance provider before travelling if they cover medical care at your destination, and if the healthcare providers you’ve identified is under their policy; any recommendations from them, if you might need medical attention and care. Keep all necessary documents related to your medical insurance, in some cases one might have to take travel insurance in case of overseas travel.

Getting adequate rest and having a balanced diet is very important when traveling, make sure the food you eat is cooked thoroughly, and stick with bottled water.

You might need a letter from your healthcare provider if you’re on narcotic pain medications, and make sure these are legal in the countries to which you will be traveling.

Talk to your healthcare provider about any immunizations that are recommended for those traveling to your destination.

Traveling with cancer can be a great way to take your mind off of the treatment. Taking a moment to plan ahead can ensure a smooth trip.