From Labor Day to Thanksgiving to the winter holidays, the last few months of the year give us a lot of reasons to travel.
Traveling can be stressful, and living with an illness like diabetes only adds to the tension. Here are a few tips for staying healthy the next time you take flight.
1. Keep your medication with you – Make sure your prescriptions and any other medication you need stay in your carry-on. Delayed luggage can mean delayed treatment, and keeping your medication with your luggage in the cargo hold can subject it to some very cold temperatures.
2. Alert the crew – If you’re traveling by yourself, let someone on the flight know about your condition in case of an emergency. Let a flight attend know you may need a soda or some juice if you become hypoglycemic. The TSA also recommends you carry or wear medical identification, and keep contact info for your doctor with you.
3. Have a doctor’s letter with you – This is another TSA recommendation. Having a letter from your doctor will alert airport security of your need to carry insulin, syringes and other supplies. You should also have pharmacy-labeled pill bottles and insulin vials.
4. Bring a first aid kit – This kit should include gauze, bandages and an antibiotic cream to treat foot sores. You should also carry a travel sharps container – it can just be a sturdy plastic bottle with a screw-on lid – and dispose of it properly when you get home.
5. Pack some snacks – Many airlines charge extra for food and beverages, so pack your own snacks. Food on long flights can be unhealthy, and not always plentiful. Try to plan ahead and request a diabetes-friendly meal.
5. Keep your feet safe and comfortable – You may want to bring a second pair of comfortable, slip-on shoes to wear during the flight.
At Creative Care, we know how important it is to keep your feet safe and comfortable, whether you’re at home or traveling.
That’s why we sell a variety of travel/support compression socks, designed to maximize comfort and minimize fatigue. Be sure to browse our website to find the perfect pair of compression socks for your next flight.
