Monday, May 2, 2011

Travel Tips for IBDer's

I recently went on a vacation to Mexico. It was only the second time I had travelled since my J-pouch surgeries and the first time out of the country since my surgeries and boy was I nervous! I've learned a lot about travelling with my new digestive system so I thought I'd share some tips:

  • Eat only foods you know agree with you. When you are away from home it is not the time to experiment.
  • Keep a piece of paper with a list of your medications and your doctors names and phone numbers in your wallet. That way, in case something does happen everything will be in one spot.
  • Be sure to keep yourself hydrated. Stock your room full of bottled water and Gatorade.
  • If you have an ostomy, take PLENTY of extra supplies. It’s better to have too much rather than not enough.
  • Take a break when you need to. If you are on a trip where you are doing a lot of activities, don’t feel like you need to constantly be on the go with everyone else. Listen to your body and take a rest if necessary.
  • If you are going to a foreign country and you have had surgeries, consider taking your surgical notes with you…just in case.
  • Double check that you have packed all your medications and bring them in your carry-on luggage in case your checked bags get lost. You don’t want to be without your meds!
  • If you have a J-pouch, ask your doctor for a prescription for Cipro and/or Flagyl and bring them with you even if you’re not prone to pouchitis…it’s better to be safe than sorry.
  • If flying with a J-pouch, I find it helpful to eat light the day of the flight and go to the bathroom right before you board.
  • If you are going to a foreign country always have change in your wallet. Some countries charge a small amount to use the bathrooms.
  • Know the bathroom situation in every restaurant, museum, store, etc. you go to.
  • Try to have fun and not to worry!