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TRAVEL TIPS FOR DIABETES:
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1. Know the latest corona virus updates
2. Get travel insurance
3. Packing checklist
4. Organise medication
5. Food
6. Hot climates
7. Cold climates
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Pack:
Insulin and syringes needed for trip
Blood and urine testing supplies (along with extra batteries for glucose meter)
All oral medications (including an extra supply)
Any other medications or medical supplies, such as glucagon, anti-diarrheal medication, antibiotic ointment, anti-nausea drugs.
Your ID and diabetes identity card
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In addition to medications and devices, snacks to treat low blood sugar
Airtight snack packs of crackers or cheese
Peanut butter
Fruit
Juice box
Sugar- hard candy or glucose tablets=Important to eat correctly while travelling.
If on insulin, wait to take your shot until right before you eat, when the food is all already and served.
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If you are travelling alone-Bus, train, flight, it may be useful to inform the person sitting next to you about being diabetic and will need to take a medication shot before you eat.
Having a pre-packaged snack will prevent low blood sugar.
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Travelling across time zones may affect the timing and amount of insulin doses. If travelling eastward, you lose time and day is shorter and may need less insulin.
When travel westward you gain time, making day longer and possibly requiring more insulin. Doctor can recommend any adjustments need to make in your insulin regimen.
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Keep watch set to the time of travel origin to help remember when to take insulin.
KEEP a check of blood glucose more often when travelling -at least every 4 to 6 hours.
Extra Supplies While Travelling: two blood glucose monitors (pack each separately) and up to 2 weeks of extra supplies including insulin, test strips and lancets, glucose meter batteries, and insulin pump supplies.
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Carry rapid-acting insulin, to treat high blood glucose in a pinch.
Be sure to bring appropriate shoes and check feet daily for any signs of infection.
Hydration is important when travelling, so make sure to carry plenty of water. Limit sugary drinks such as soda, lemonade, or fruit punch. Be sure to avoid drinking tap water, including ice cubes.
Don't store insulin in the glove compartment or trunk of a car, and keep it out of a backpack or cycle bag that can get hot in direct sunlight.
Never freeze insulin, and make sure pills are kept dry because moisture can damage them.
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If travelling in very hot or cold temperatures, plan ahead to protect insulin.
Keep blood sugar in check by always being mindful of what you eat and drink when travelling.
Allergies to foods or medicine
Be extra careful about food and water precautions. Avoid uncooked foods and tap water. Foods that upset your stomach could cause your blood glucose levels to become uncontrolled.
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Wear comfortable shoes and never walk with bare feet. Check your feet every day, looking for signs of blisters, cuts, redness, swelling, and scratches.
Get medical care at the first sign of any infection or inflammation.
A piece of paper or card with your doctor's name and phone number.
Pack a cooler with healthy foods and enough bottles of water and fluids
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Avoid sitting in the same posture for long. Get up and move around in the passageway if you are in plane or train. In case you are driving, take a break.
Set the alarms for medicine intake if forgetful during travelling in different time zones.
Don’t overdo activity when the sun is in his prime. Carry suntan lotions/slippers/sunglasses/umbrellas to protect yourself. As the temperature soars, there will be variation in insulin levels in the body.
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Have wet wipes handy when you are outdoors- need to clean before checking the blood sugar levels.
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