Traveling while undergoing cancer treatment

Having cancer requires making changes. Your body will certainly change as it is exposed to medicines and other treatments. Future goals and plans may be modified, and you may be interested in spending more time away from the office as you look to balance out a schedule suddenly filled with doctor’s appointments and therapy sessions.

Those taking inventory of their lives either during or after cancer treatment may have a greater inclination to travel and see the world. You may think that travel is off limits, but unless a doctor has ruled it out, many cancer patients are able to travel as long as they take certain precautions.

Approval

According to the online health community CarePages.com, the first step to traveling while undergoing cancer treatment is to visit your doctor’s office. Discuss your plans and any restrictions with your oncologist. You may be able to work around surgery, chemotherapy or other scheduled procedures. Ask the doctor if there are any locations you should avoid or if certain methods of travel are safer than others for someone in your condition.

Restrictions

Some cancer patients may be advised to avoid air travel due to air pressure changes that can occur during the flight. Others may be advised not to venture to developing countries or places that are known for large crowds, as your immune system may be compromised by chemotherapy. Some cancers can increase risk for blood clots, called deep venous thrombosis, or DVT. Frequent breaks in travel may be needed to thwart DVT.

Destination health care

It is important to know the type of medical services available at your travel destination should an emergency occur. Your doctor may have a colleague at a hospital or clinic at your destination who can provide care if need be. Confirm if your health insurance will be accepted by a facility when planning to travel internationally.

Packing

Remember to travel with all the medications and supplies you need to continue with your care regimen while away. Consult with your doctor for additional medications that may alleviate motion sickness or other symptoms of travel. Be sure to have a decent supply of prescriptions so you will not run out while away from your regular pharmacy. Carry medications in their original containers and place them in carry-on bags so they will not get lost.

Cancer patients who travel also need to consider things they might otherwise never consider when fully healthy. For example, according to the World Health Organization, airlines can refuse to carry passengers with medical conditions that may get worse or cause serious consequences during the flight. Airline staff members may screen for signs of persistent coughing and passengers who look unwell. Staff may also question passengers who they overhear discussing a recent surgery or terminal illness.

Obtain proper documentation from your doctor that indicates you are cleared for travel. You can even wear a bracelet that explains your condition. Check with your airline about their specific requirements regarding transporting a medical patient. You may need a medical clearance card in advance.

It is important to get rest and eat a balanced diet while traveling. Avoid well water and other native water sources that may be contaminated with bacteria, opting for bottled water instead. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy may make you sensitive to sunlight, so pack protective clothing, sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat. Pace yourself and rest if you become too tired.

With a few precautions and guidance from a doctor, many people with cancer can travel without incident.