Seven Tips For Healthy Travel With Diabetes (NAPSA)—A vacation should be a pleasant, stress-free time when concerns are pushed to the side in favor of total relaxation. But for the more than 21 million Americans living with diabetes, the stress of managing fluctuating glucose levels and maintaining proper insulin levels cannot be avoided, and, in fact, can increase with travel. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body produces little or no insulin, a necessary hormone needed to convert sugar (glucose) and othercar- bohydrates. As a result, people with Type 1 diabetes must con- stantly monitor their glucose lev- els and administer the appropriate amounts of insulin to avoid dangerous highs and lows that can lead to hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic episodes. For people with Type 1 dia- betes, an insulin pump provides the opportunity to go on vacations without worrying about adminis- tering insulin injections throughout the day. Unlike injection therapy, insulin pumps can be programmed to deliver insulin at Insulin pumps can be programmed to deliver insulin at varying rates to meetpatients’ changing insulin needs through- out the day and night. critical if your luggageis lost, yourflight is delayed or if you are otherwise separated from your checked luggage for an extended period. 2. Test your blood glucose more often than normal. Blood glucose levels can change dueto stress, illness or changes in activity and eating while traveling. If possible, consider using a continuousglucose monitor (CGM) that reviews glucose levels in real time. 3. Wear or carry a medical ID varying rates to meet patients’ changing insulin needs through- indicating you have diabetes. the way a natural pancreas regu- walk the aisles during long flights out the day and night. Mimicking lates insulin in the body, the pumpoffers patients the ability to maintain healthy glucose levels, offering greater freedom and spontaneity in all aspects of life, including vacation. Even with the benefits of the insulin pump, planning ahead can alleviate unforeseen problems and reduce travel-related stressors. By following the simple travel tips below, people can look forward to a healthier and happier vaca- tion—despite having diabetes. 7 Tips For Traveling With Diabetes 1. Always carry all medica- tions, snacks and supplies in your carry-on luggage, as this can be 4. Make sure you get up and to help encourage good circulation, and drink water to avoid dehydration. 5. Carry a copy of all prescriptions separate from checked luggage in case your bags are lost or you need moreinsulin. 6. Always pack at least double the amount of supplies that you think you will need while away. 7. Have a carbohydrate for low blood glucose treatment on hand, and at least one day’s supply of food, such as nutrition bars, which are easy to carry. For more information about Type 1 diabetes, insulin pump therapy and CGM,visit www.real diabetescontrol.com.
