diabetic travellers
If you suffer from diabetes and are planning to travel it is essential to plan ahead. Research your destination(s) carefully and ask yourself what kind of activities you plan to take part in, and if you find yourself in an emergency situation are you able to seek help easily.
Visit your GP as early as possible to sort out your supplies and equipment - It’s advisable to take a letter from your GP confirming you are a diabetic, and why you have needles in your possession, make sure you have if to hand when going through customs and advice the airline at the earliest possible time.
Always keep your insulin with you at all times. Insulin should always be carried in your hand luggage, never place it in an aeroplane hold! If your insulin comes in U-100 check the conversion rate in countries where it comes in U-40 or U-80. It will be essential in this situation to get new syringes to avoid dosage mistakes. Travel to tropical regions of the world will require you keeping the insulin in a cold pack, or in a cool place.
Heat will affect the rate at which insulin is absorbed. In the heat, insulin is absorbed quicker. It is therefore important to monitor your levels in hot weather and adjust your diet as required.
In a cold climate insulin is absorbed slower. If you find yourself cold and shivering it is possible you will use up more energy and lower your blood sugar levels. Monitor your blood sugar levels in extreme conditions and never let your insulin freeze.
Adjust your insulin times when you reach your destination - When travelling west lengthen the gap between insulin doses or add extra food with an extra dose until adjusted. If you are travelling east shorten the gap and reduce dosages. Always check your blood sugar at regular intervals when you cross time zones, as you might need to adjust your dosages.
Make sure you get a prescription for your medication, and carry enough for your trip plus always take a little extra. If you don’t already, wear a diabetic identity bracelet this will allow other people to react to your situation and provide first aid more efficiently.
Immunisations and anti-malaria medication are usually safe for the diabetic, but should be discussed with your doctor. When buying your travel insurance it is important to mention your diabetes as a pre-existing condition, otherwise you may find yourself without sufficient cover