FRIDAY, Dec. 23 (HealthDay News) -- If you have diabetes and plan on traveling this holiday season, there are certain things you need to do to safeguard your health, says a University of Alabama at Birmingham expert.
"I tell patients, especially type 1 diabetics, to be diligent about blood sugar control when they travel -- especially across time zones -- because it's easy to lose control of your glucose management when you get out of your usual routine," Dr. Fernando Ovalle, director of the UAB Multidisciplinary Diabetes Clinic and a senior scientist in the UAB Comprehensive Diabetes Center, said in a university news release.
When traveling in the United States or to most places in Europe, you should pack twice as much medication and blood-testing supplies as you think you need. If traveling to places where medical resources may be scarce, pack three to four times that amount, Ovalle recommended.
Pack at least one set of medication and supplies in a carry-on bag and keep the bag with you at all times so you always have medication on hand, even if your checked baggage is delayed or lost.
Reduce the risk of airport hassles by carrying a letter and prescription from your doctor. The letter should outline the treatment for your diabetes (such as, "take diabetes pills or insulin shots") and list syringes, insulin and any other medications or devices you use.
If you're traveling across time zones, start adjusting your medication times for insulin in increments in the days before you depart. If the time change is more than four hours, ask your doctor to create a new dosing schedule in order to reduce your risk of making a mistake, Ovalle said.
If you're traveling long distances, make sure you move around or get up and walk at least every hour or so. People with diabetes are at increased risk for blood clots and movement can help prevent them.
People with insulin pumps need to be careful when flying. Rese
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