Contents:
- Medical Video: Travel Safety - Mayo Clinic
- The importance of medical information before departure
- Always carry along with medicines
- Stay alert while on the plane
- Take care of food during the trip
Medical Video: Travel Safety - Mayo Clinic
Everyone, including you, has the right to travel to preferred places. However, keep in mind that you have lung cancer. Here are a few tips that you can try before traveling outside the home. Traveling is safe and fun too!
The importance of medical information before departure
Make sure you consult with your doctor first about your plan to travel. Ask about your physical condition, whether it is possible to travel or not. The doctor will make a list of what must be prepared and done while traveling. Medical records that doctors usually provide include:
- Drug / medical instructions
- List of allergies
- Diagnosis and treatment plan
- Steps to be taken in an emergency situation
In addition to the doctor's notes, don't forget to keep carrying insurance documents and medical records in copy or original form if needed. Always keep information and all important contacts during the trip. If you are traveling abroad, it is better to translate medical records into languages understood by the local people there.
Always carry along with medicines
Prepare enough medicine for your trip and take a spare for several days. You need to know that some airlines may ban oxygen tanks or medical equipment such as needles or needles in the cabin without a valid permit from a doctor. Therefore, prepare a prescription or letter of permission from a doctor just in case. Place your medicine in a separate container to avoid mixing with one another.
Stay alert while on the plane
The air pressure on the plane is certainly lower than on land. This can cause the lungs to constrict, making it difficult to breathe. When this happens, ask to change seats or use an oxygen tank to breathe normally. You can also try doing some breathing techniques to overcome this problem.
Sitting too long can risk the appearance of blood clots (thrombosis). Because it is dangerous, ask your doctor about how to prevent this risk. Changes in air pressure may also cause swelling of the lymph nodes (lymphedema). To avoid this problem, use clothes that are loose and comfortable, and take the time to walk around the cabin at least once an hour to facilitate blood circulation.
Take care of food during the trip
Even though you are traveling, keep in mind a healthy diet. However, when traveling to an area with low sanitation, avoid consuming tap water and ice cubes. Choose to drink bottled water to reduce the risk of infection and food poisoning.
Having lung cancer is not your reason to feel 'jailed' by just staying at home. Sometimes, traveling can also be the best medicine for you. Discuss with your doctor to ensure your safety while traveling. If traveling by plane is too risky, you can choose to travel by train or bus.
