If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from chronic kidney disease, you know that traveling can be difficult. You may be wondering how to travel with chronic kidney disease and what tips are available to make it easier. Whether you are planning a trip or are already on the road, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind if you have chronic kidney disease.
Let hotel, airplane, or other travel staff help you
As you travel, let employees know what you may need help with. For example, if you are staying in a hotel then request a handicap-accessible and first floor room. Most importantly, if you are flying, make sure to request a wheelchair or other assistance at the airport. By notifying staff ahead of time, they can be prepared to help you and make your travel experience easier.
Stay hydrated
First and foremost, you need to make sure that you stay hydrated . This is especially important if you are traveling in hot weather or at high altitudes, as dehydration can worsen your kidney function. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, and carry a water bottle with you so that you can stay hydrated on the go. Make sure to stay away from alcohol , as it can dehydrate your body and put unnecessary strain on your kidneys.
Stick with your diet
Another important thing to keep in mind is your diet. If you have kidney disease, you may need to follow a special diet , which can be difficult to stick to when you’re traveling. Try to pack healthy snacks and meals with you so that you have something to eat if you can’t find anything suitable at your destination. Of course, make sure to stay away from alcohol as it can dehydrate your body and put unnecessary strain on your kidneys.
Bring extra medication
Don’t forget to pack enough of your medication to last the entire trip, plus a little extra in case of emergencies. It’s also a good idea to keep a list of your medications with you, in case you lose them or need to replace them while you’re away. If you have insurance issues with bringing extras, try contacting your insurance company before you leave to see what can be done. If you’re flying then make sure to pack your medication in your carry-on bag so it’s easily accessible.
Make a checklist
There’s a lot to remember when you’re packing for a trip, so it’s helpful to make a checklist of everything you need to take with you. This way, you can be sure that you haven’t forgotten anything important. You should include the following on your checklist:
- Medication
- A list of your medications
- Travel insurance information
- How to eat healthy on the road
- A copy of your medical records
- Any other important documents
- Contact information for your doctor or kidney care team
Know your limits when it comes to your health
It’s important to know your limits when you’re traveling with chronic kidney disease. Be sure to pace yourself and take breaks often. If you’re feeling tired, don’t push yourself to keep going. It’s also important to stay hydrated, so drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
Safe traveling with chronic kidney disease is possible
Remember, before you travel it’s important to consult with your doctor to make sure that it’s safe for you to do so. They can help you plan for any necessary medical care while you’re away and give you advice on how to stay healthy while traveling. With a little planning, traveling with chronic kidney disease can be safe and enjoyable.
