If you’re eager to experience new adventures and a bit of globe-trotting without letting epilepsy hold you back, you’ll need the right preparation first. Whilst travelling opens doors to new experiences and cultures, it’s not without its challenges. If you’re someone living with epilepsy, you’ll have additional challenges that the average holidaymaker takes for granted.
From managing medication to finding healthcare services abroad if you need them in an emergency, it can all seem overwhelming. However, the good news is travel can be both safe and enjoyable for those with epilepsy (around 625,800 people in the UK) – it just takes a little bit more prep and consideration for what challenges you may encounter.
What To Do Pre-Travel
Speak to Your GP
A check-up with your GP should be at the top of your to-do list. It’s just as crucial as arranging comprehensive holiday insurance that covers your condition and ensuring your passport hasn’t expired. Arrange an appointment ideally at least 2 months before you plan to travel. This visit will mean you can discuss your travel plans with them and raise any concerns you might have.
Your GP can then assess your current condition and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary. Depending on your destination, you may need vaccinations before travel too. Most are ok, but you may need to check regarding anti-malaria medicine as some are not suitable for those with epilepsy.
Your medication schedule can be disrupted whilst travelling, especially if you’ll be crossing time zones. Your GP can help you adjust your schedule to maintain medication efficacy, ensuring that you remain well-managed throughout your trip. They’ll also be able to give you advice on packing for your medication as well as what you need to know before taking this abroad.
Medication Management
Pack Sufficient Supplies
Packing more medication than you think you’ll need ensures you have enough throughout your trip and just in case of any issues such as potential delays or even lost luggage. You’ll need to ensure that you keep your medication in your hand luggage in the original containers. This will ensure you’ve got easy access to them during your flight, as well as making it quick and easy to show airport security and airline staff. If any medication is over 100ml, you’ll need to contact the airline beforehand.
Carry Documentation
Bring a letter from your GP that fully details your condition, medications (including generic names), and any medical devices you require. This is invaluable, especially if you need medical care while abroad or if you need to explain your medication to airport security.
Know the Regulations
Before you travel, you should check the medication laws of your destination country. Some countries have restrictions on certain medications, so it’s important to ensure you’re compliant to avoid any issues at customs. You’ll also need to understand whether your epilepsy medication contains any controlled substances, which many do – you can discover more about taking medicine out of the UK on the GOV.UK website here.
Getting Travel Insurance To Cover Your Trip
Unfortunately, not all travel insurance policies are created equal, especially when it comes to pre-existing conditions like epilepsy. Look for a policy that covers medical treatment abroad and includes a 24-hour medical emergency helpline and medical repatriation if necessary – you just never know if you may need it.
When purchasing travel insurance, fully disclose your epilepsy. This ensures that you’re adequately covered and avoids any disputes in the event of a claim. Again, it’s better to prepare for the worst as you just never know if you’ll need it when away, whether it’s for 3 days or 3 months.
Safety Tips While Travelling With Epilepsy
Once all your preparation is done and you’re finally ready to jet off, maintaining your safety and well-being whilst away is your biggest priority alongside enjoying yourself. You don’t want your condition to define you and your holiday, but you can’t ignore it. Travelling by air is not considered to be an issue for those with epilepsy, but you can make your flight easier with a little preparation. Here are some essential safety tips to help you manage your epilepsy on your flight and during your time away.
Tell airline staff
Having epilepsy is nothing to be ashamed of, so tell the cabin crew of your condition. This can help you feel at ease, especially when travelling alone, as the airline staff will then be well aware just in case you experience any symptoms or even a seizure.
Adjusting Medication Schedules
When crossing time zones, it’s crucial to adjust your medication schedule to maintain its effectiveness. Your GP will help you with this before you set off, so that during your flight and whilst away you can continue to take this at the appropriate times.
Wear a Medical ID
A medical ID bracelet, necklace, or card with your details that indicate you have epilepsy can be lifesaving in an emergency. It should include your condition, emergency contact details, and any critical medical information just in case strangers need to help you when you need it most.
Carry Detailed Medical Information
As well as a medical ID, carry a comprehensive medical document that outlines your epilepsy management plan, medication dosages, and the contact details of your GP wherever you go. This information can be vital if you need medical assistance when not at your hotel or accommodation.
Identify and Manage Triggers
There are many different epilepsy triggers, which can include:
- Stress
- Lack of sleep
- Being ill or having a fever
- Very low blood sugar
You’ll hopefully already be aware of what common triggers relate to you most, so taking proactive steps to avoid or reduce these triggers while travelling is a good idea. This could mean ensuring you have adequate rest, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and avoiding known food and drink triggers such as too much caffeine or alcohol.
Top Tips For During Your Trip
Write Down Your Action Plan
Before setting off, draft a clear and concise emergency action plan. This should include what steps to take in case you have a seizure, who to contact, and how to communicate your needs if you’re unable to do so yourself.
Informing Travel Companions
If you’re travelling with others whether it be close friends or a group tour, ensure they are aware of your epilepsy and understand what to do in case of a seizure. Providing them with a simple, clear action plan can make all the difference in an emergency.
Emergency Contacts
Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local emergency services, the nearest embassy or consulate, and a contact back home who has access to your medical information. Make sure your phone is always charged and consider carrying a portable charger too.
Know the Local Emergency Numbers
Familiarise yourself with the emergency services number in the country you’re visiting. 112 is the European emergency number that is free to call within the EU if you require emergency services.
Locate Nearest Healthcare Facilities
Research and make note of the locations of hospitals or clinics near your hotel and any places you plan to visit extensively. Knowing where to go can save valuable time in an emergency.
By being prepared for emergencies, you can travel with greater peace of mind, knowing you have measures in place to manage your epilepsy safely. Preparation not only helps you but also empowers those around you to assist effectively if needed.
Enjoy a safe trip away, and for more helpful information, Epilepsy Action has more details about travel with epilepsy.
The post How To Travel the Globe with Epilepsy – Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip appeared first on NSF News and Magazine.