9 Travel Tips for People with Hypothyroidism
The big crowds, traffic, long security lines, along with flight cancellations and delays, could be quite stressful under any circumstances. You can add a thyroid condition into the mix, and the journey may become quite complicated.
Hypothyroidism doesn’t have to disrupt your travel plans. All you need to do is just plan.
Get a checkup
About four to six weeks ahead of your travel, you should check in with your endocrinologist or primary care doctor. Make sure your hypothyroidism is under excellent control; you do not need to worry about getting sick while on vacation. You should ask whether you need any vaccinations if you are traveling to another country. It is best to get written instruction on handling any health issues while away.
Schedule a trip around according to your health
Book flight only at the time when you tend to feel your best, whether it is in the early afternoon or morning. Avoid peak travel times at train stations and airports as they are most crowded. Before leaving, identify the hospitals and doctors’ offices closest to your hotel.
Bring extra thyroid medicines
If you need to keep your thyroid hormone levels in a normal range, you may need to take them in every day. However, you should also keep in mind to bring enough that it may last your whole trip, plus a few extra pills in case you get stuck at your destination due to flight cancellation or bad weather.
Pack your prescription
It is crucial to bring a copy for your prescription with you. It is especially vital if you are traveling abroad. Few countries require you to show the prescription to bring in medicine. You may also need a prescription if you lose your medication and need a refill at a local pharmacy.
Check for the medicine restriction at the destination
Before leaving for an overseas trip, you should check with the consulate or embassy to ensure that the country you visit will allow you to bring in the medicines you take. Few countries have restrictions on the type of medicines visitors may bring in.
Carry around doctor’s information
You should carry your doctor’s phone number and email address if you need verification for a foreign pharmacy to refill your prescription. You can leave a copy of your doctor’s contact information and insurance plan numbers with a family member or friend.
Stay hydrated
You should drink extra water throughout the day, both while on the plane and once you arrive at a destination. Avoid drinks and foods which may dehydrate you, like coffee, soda, and salty snacks. If you stay hydrated, it can help prevent constipation, which is already a problem with hypothyroidism.
Wear a medical alert bracelet
Before you go, it is better to sign with a medical alert company. They’ll provide you with a bracelet or necklace and a wallet card with your name, health conditions, and toll-free number. Then, health care professionals at your destination can call to learn more about the medical situation. A medical alert tag can save your life if you cannot explain your condition or are unconscious to paramedics and doctors.
Make yourself comfortable
When you travel, you’ll be on your feet a lot. Therefore, it is crucial for you to wear comfortable, loose clothing and low-heeled shoes. In addition, you should get up once every hour and walk around to stretch your legs on the plane. Staying active will help you prevent blood clots from forming in your legs.
Conclusion
Although travel prepping and planning with hypothyroidism in mind may take some extra steps, do not let that prevent you from taking a trip. On the contrary, planning may ease any anxieties about traveling with your condition.
