Traveling with eczema can be a hassle. Many people who have this condition are deterred because they dread the moment they get attacked with itch and scratching and how this will turn what is supposed to be a vacation into a nightmare. However, one must remember that there are many ways to travel without aggravating your eczema.
The world is big. There are so many places to visit and people to see so it is imperative that you grab each opportunity. But you can only do this if you are prepared. This means you need an arsenal of knowledge: from preparing your medications, choosing your hotel, the appropriate climate, and more. There is no reason to deny yourself the privileges of travel, if you only come prepared.
Prepare Travel Friendly Stuff
Needless to say, you should have a medical certificate stipulating that you need medications on the plane. Airports and carriers locally and worldwide have posted a limit on the amount of liquid substances you can carry with you in-flight. You can bring unlimited amounts in your luggage but not in your carry-on bag. This means that without a certification from a physician, the airport officials will ask you to leave your medication behind. If you get an attack in-flight, you are in big trouble.
Once you have that document ready, make sure that the medicines are in travel-friendly packages, preferably in tightly sealed bottles. Make sure you bring with you your most effective and trusted skin cream. Never expect that your destination will have stores selling the same products that you use. On top of that, bring your own soap and shampoo formulated to ease the itch of eczema. Hotels have standard soaps and shampoos and most of these are not fit to be used by patients with atopic dermatitis.
You have to bring your own towel, sponge, clothing, and all other stuff that you use directly on your skin. Chances are, hotel towels and bathrobes are soaked in detergents that contain chemicals which will aggravate your eczema.
Make sure that the medications you bring are suited for the weather or conditions of your destination. If your eczema gets aggravated by cold weather and you are going skiing, it makes perfect sense that you have adequate medication intended for eczema attacks in low temperatures.
Purchase Travel Insurance
You never know when eczema will flare requiring a visit to the emergency room. A minor scrape, burn or wound can get infected and aggravate your condition. It is always best to have an insurance that will ensure you get the best treatment when you need it the most.
There are many companies offering travel insurance at a very low cost. Most of the time, the cost of the insurance is not far from the overall cost of the trip. However, the value of the medical services will definitely be higher than what you paid for. Travel insurance can be purchased through your local travel agencies but you can also opt for other insurance carriers whose services are available online.
This will also come in very handy in foreign countries where some hospital facilities are reserved for locals. Due to these restrictions, you may not be able to get the best service, especially if you do not have enough money with you. An insurance policy turns situations like this around.
Peruse Types of Hotel Rooms
Hotels will offer various types of rooms and you need to select one that will suit your condition. Preferably, you need a room that is on a smoke-free floor. Cigarette smoke, even if not inhaled directly, can get into your skin and start an irritation. Do the same when eating out—avoid smoking areas at all costs.
You should also choose hotels that do not allow pets. Many people suffering from atopic dermatitis get flares from pet hair. Stay away from shows where animals are the main attraction, such as zoos and animal reservation. If you do decide to go there, make sure you have adequate and appropriate medication with you.
It is also wise to call up the hotel and ask if the beddings are covered with hypoallergenic and natural fabrics. Synthetic fabrics will irritate your skin and only make you miserable during your trip.
Lastly, you need to ensure that you are booked in a room that has an adjustable temperature and on a quiet floor. Rest is very important for people with atopic dermatitis.
In conclusion, traveling is fun. All you need to do is be informed and prepared. Having the right mindset and if executed properly, eczema should not hinder you from enjoying the world.