Welcome back to the Bendy Club blog! This week, we’re tackling a topic that many find daunting: traveling with Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). The thought of managing symptoms while away from home can be overwhelming, but with some preparation and the right strategies, you can enjoy your travels with confidence and ease. Let’s dive into some practical tips to help you make the most of your journeys.
Why This Matters
Traveling is an enriching experience that shouldn’t be limited by health conditions. With HSD and EDS, planning and precautions are key to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Understanding how to manage your symptoms on the go can make all the difference in maintaining your health and enjoying new experiences.
Pre-Travel Preparations
- Plan Ahead: Research your destination to find out about healthcare facilities, accessibility options, grocery stores if you have food allergies, and climate conditions. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare better.
- Pack Smart: Make a checklist of all the essentials you’ll need, including medications, assistive devices, and comfort items. Make sure to bring electrolytes, liquid IV for when needed, compression gear, kinesio tape, and bracing especially cervical bracing for those with cervical instability or chronic neck pain. You may want to consider packing a small first-aid kit with essentials like pain relievers, bandages, and topical creams.
- Medical Documentation: Carry copies of important medical documents, including your diagnosis, allergies, current medications, treatment plans, and emergency contacts. Having these on hand can be invaluable in case of an emergency.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions. This can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected health issues.
Tips for a Comfortable Journey
- Choose the Right Transportation: Select travel options that offer the most comfort and flexibility. For long flights, consider requesting special accommodations like seats with extra legroom.
- Take Breaks: If you’re traveling by car, plan for frequent stops to stretch and move around. On flights, try to walk up and down the aisle periodically to keep your circulation flowing.
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate symptoms, so drink plenty of water throughout your journey. Carry a refillable water bottle to ensure you always have access to fluids. Bring your electrolyte supplements with you as well. Salt tablets, Nuun, and Liquid IV can all help decrease the symptoms of dysautonomia when used appropriately.
- Comfort Items: Bring items that can help manage pain and discomfort, such as a neck brace, compression wear, and heating pads. These small comforts can make a big difference during long journeys.
- Pacing and Rest: Listen to your body and pace yourself. Build in time for rest and recovery, and don’t over-schedule your days. Allow for flexibility in your itinerary.
Action Steps for Stress-Free Travel
- Communicate Needs: Inform travel providers of your requirements in advance. Airlines, hotels, and tour operators can often provide accommodations if they know what you need. If you can get the flight attendants on your side they can be very helpful keeping you comfortable with blankets, etc.
- Prepare for the Unexpected: Keep a plan in place for managing potential flare-ups. Do you know where the nearest hospital is at? Knowing how to handle these situations can reduce anxiety and help you stay in control.
- Stay Connected: Keep in touch with loved ones and let them know your travel plans. Having a support system can be comforting and helpful if you encounter any issues.
- Utilize Apps and Tools: There are many travel apps designed to help with accessibility and health management. Explore these tools to make your journey smoother.
Patient Story: Sarah’s Travel Success
Sarah, an adventurous traveler with EDS, used to feel apprehensive about exploring new places. After implementing these travel strategies, she’s visited numerous destinations with confidence. Planning and preparation are key. By anticipating her needs and staying flexible, she is able to enjoy traveling without compromising her health.
Share Your Journey
We encourage you to share your experiences and connect with others on our social media platforms. By building a supportive community, we can help each other navigate the challenges of living with HSD and EDS.
Connect with Us
Follow us on social media for more tips, updates, and support:
Ready to Take the Next Step?
For those seeking personalized guidance, our 1-on-1 coaching program offers tailored support to address your specific needs. With expert advice and a comprehensive plan, you’ll gain the tools and confidence to manage your condition effectively. Learn more and sign up here.
Thank you for being part of the Bendy Club. Together, we can make a difference!
Warm regards,
The Hypermobile Solutions Team
References
Emily Malcolm, P. (2020, February 28). Traveling safely when you have EDS – ehlers-danlos news. Ehlers. https://ehlersdanlosnews.com/health-insights/traveling-safely-when-you-have-eds/
Disability Horizons. (2018, February 20). Travelling with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome: How to make your holidays smooth. https://disabilityhorizons.com/2015/05/travelling-with-ehlers-danlos-syndrome-how-to-make-your-holidays-smooth/
Home. The Ehlers Danlos Society. https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/
What is HSD?. The Ehlers Danlos Society. https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-hsd/
What is eds?. The Ehlers Danlos Society. https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/
Jovin, D., Atwal, P., Herman, K., Block, N., Maxwell, A. J., Mitakides, J., Maitland, A. M., Saperstein, D., Hamilton, M., Schofield, J., Koby, M., Klinge, P., McElroy, A., Bluestein, L., Chopra, P., Tishler, J., Pocinki, A. G., Varga, J., Dempsey, T., … Lane, K. (2020). Disjointed: Navigating the diagnosis and management of Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility spectrum disorders. Hidden Stripes Publications, Inc.
Smith, C., & Wicks, D. (2017). Understanding Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility spectrum disorder: (previously known as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility Type & Joint Hypermobility Syndrome, respectively). Redcliff-House Publications.
Cox, C. (2022). Holding it all together when you’re Hypermobile. Journey2Joy.
Disclaimer
This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no provider/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this blog or materials linked from this blog is at the user’s own risk. The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.