Tips for travelling with cancer
Most people look forward to taking their dream trips after saving for it for some time. When one gets the news that they have cancer, they might want to squeeze in an exotic trip before commencing treatment. The diagnosis will influence the place you can travel to and the mode of travel.
Risks of travelling with cancer
The risks involved include:
Risk of infection
For any patient who has started chemotherapy, there is a high risk of getting infections. Some might have high risks such that their doctors can prohibit them from travelling. There are those who have relatively low risks, the doctor can allow travel but extra caution exercised.
Restrictions on flying
Some cancer patient might face travel restrictions due to changes in the air in high altitudes which can be high and pose high risks to them. Also, oxygen level while flying might affect them negatively. Some can have high risks and travel can be postponed to a later date.
Risk of blood clots
The risk of blood clots is higher for cancer patients, and it’s also known a thrombosis which is life-threatening. A person who is still on cancer treatment might not manage to sit for long hours as required by long trips. One should consider travelling for a short distance to avoid the risk of blood clotting.
With all these risks involved, you might find it difficult to travel. We will give you some tips to go even in your condition because they are likely to ease your burden. They include:
Research your destination
Some cancer treatments procedures such as radiation, chemotherapy, and steroid therapy weaken the patient’s immune system and can limit the effectiveness of any vaccinations that can be administered while on treatment or extend to sometime after completing treatment. Such a person is advised to avoid any vaccines
Some countries have mandatory vaccines such as yellow fever that is why it’s essential you research ascertain if the country you are travelling requires any vaccinations. If so you will have to adjust your travel plan accordingly.
Exercise extra caution to protect your skin
Radiation and chemotherapy cause the cancer patients to have increased sensitivity to the sun. The effect on their skin can be permanent or temporary. That is why any cancer patient should learn to take extra caution of their skin care and observe all the requirements needed. They should always:
- Wear a strong sunscreen on the whole body.
- Should apply sunscreen immediately after every swimming session and keep reapplying it after a few hours.
- Always wear a hat when outdoors.
- Should wear protective cloth to protect their skin from direct sunlight. The clothing can be light to avoid discomfort.
Take special care of your medications
All medications that you have on prescription, you should handle them with utmost care. Pack them on your handbag or a small bag that you will have with you at all times. Carry enough supplies for all the days you will be, and you can add some few as a precautionary measure. You should also carry your doctor’s contact and have it a place that anyone can access it if need be.
Conclusion
While you travel in this condition, you have to take extra precautions so that you do not jeopardise your health and chances of recovering.