Travel and Illness

     I love to travel. As I mentioned before, I spent 5 months in Paris and traveled to six other European countries while there.  These countries were Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium, The UK and Germany.  I have also visited Canada and Mexico, as well as many states in the United States.  I love to venture to new places to do and see as much as I can. 
     Having Lupus can put somewhat of a strain on our enjoyment and ability to travel.  Lucky for us there are ways to prevent and minimize difficulties while travelling, as well as alternatives to traditional vacationing.  Airports can be very overwhelming for someone who has physical limitations and/or illness. There are several services that airports offer in which you can take advantage.  These include wheelchairs, attendants to carry luggage, motorized transporters and so on.  Do not hesitate to ask for help if you are in pain or just not feeling well.  There are also options to print your boarding pass and check-in online ahead of time in order to avoid long lines. Also, if you plan ahead, you can request a seat that has extra leg room.  If you need assistance in the airport, ask, do not feel ashamed.  
     When travelling it is very important to take some precautions.  Make sure you have your medication.  Be sure to keep your pills in their original bottles when travelling.  Also, be sure to take a prescription order or more than enough to last through the entire trip.  Be sure to keep a couple of days worth of medication on your person, because luggage can get lost.  Besides having your medication, you should also plan accordingly.  Do not overextend yourself.  Plan rest and adequate sleep into your days.  Scheduling too many things in one day is a sure way to wear yourself down or even worst.  Be sure to stretch and keep the circulation going when travelling far distances.  Most importantly, if you begin to feel tired, pain or illness rest or seek medical attention.  Pay attention to your body and give it what it needs.  

     If taking a long plane or car ride, or a 6 day vacation seems to be to much for you there are alternatives.  You can take a cruise, which allows you to rest when necessary and their is access to everything you need 24/7, even medical assistance.  You could also take a short car ride or a day trip to a near by location.  There are many things that you can do to get away from the norm without putting yourself at risk for flare up.  Even though travelling is great, feeling well is even better.  Plan ahead and ask for help if needed.  And remember to send me pictures when you get back!! :0)


With Love,