Traveling with arthritis

Some people with arthritis develop a reluctance to try new things or experience activities that their physical limitations might make more of a challenge. For example, people with arthritis often become reluctant to travel because of the fear of added pain, stress and frustration. Please do not restrict your life just because you have arthritis. There are a few things you must do differently. The first thing is to remember is Preparedness. This is imperative to a good trip.

 Making Traveling Less Painful for Arthritis Sufferers

More than 40 million Americans suffer from some form of arthritis that limits daily activity. The word "arthritis" literally means joint inflammation, but is often used to refer to a group of more than 100 rheumatic diseases that can cause pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints.

"The amount of pain felt from traveling arthritis patients varies greatly from person to person. There are several factors that contribute to the pain arthritis suffers feel when traveling. The worst being the swelling within the joint, the heat and redness that occurs within the affected joint or joints causes the person to feel very uncomfortable when traveling. This sometimes causes the person to begin to feel anxious or irritable, lashing out at the travel companion. I used to have both of these emotions when traveling. Now, I have a much different response when planning and going on my trips. Below I have included some tips to hopefully ease your fears and make your trip more enjoyable. .

1. When carrying luggage, changing planes or walking long distances plan ahead. Pack several small light bags that you can handle. Check in don’t carry on. This way if you have a layover you are not fumbling with bulky bags. You can relax and move throughout the airport freely. Maybe walking is difficult for you. Most airports offer shuttles not only in the parking lot but also through the airport. Take advantage of the early boarding when physically challenged. Look up the Law the Americans with Disabilities Act before making travel plans. They have made it more accessible for people who need special help.

2. Be realistic about your capabilities. Hiking , skiing or rock climbing might not be the best vacation choice. Choose a vacation that allows flexibility.

3. Remember to have frequent rest periods and drink plenty of water when visiting attractions. If you overdo it and your arthritis flares, your trip is a bust.

4. This is very important; include your doctor in your trip planning. Review your medications and your immunizations. Ask for a letter summarizing your medical history and medication needs in case you need to be taken to a hospital while away. This will expedite you care. (this tip was obtained online in a airport guide )When packing medications, take more than enough to last through your trip and carry them in their original, labeled containers. It's best to transport medicines in carry-on luggage in case you're separated from your checked bags, although some travelers pack duplicates in their luggage. If you need medications kept cool, ask train or airline personnel to put them in a refrigerator, they may or may not do this it depends on the air line You may prefer to carry medications in a vacuum flask, or similar container. Along with your medication, bring copies of your prescriptions, your doctor's name and telephone/fax numbers, a summary of your medical history, and a list of your medications.

5. There are a few aides you may just want to pack for a just in case moment. A cane (folding ones are available for travel), comfortable walking shoes, plastic bags to make an ice pack, wheeled luggage, fanny packs, back packs or bags with straps that can be worn across the chest rather than on the shoulder, requesting handicapped rooms and letting the airline know to have a wheelchair or electric cart available. There is a few things to check in to when booking your hotel. The first is the walking distance from room to entrance, restaurants, pool and ice machine. The amount of stairs the hotel has. It is a good idea to look for hotels that do not have stairs that you have no option but to climb. The location of elevators in reference to your room. Does the hotel have hand rails in tubs, showers and near the toilet? Does the bathroom have an elevated toilet seat? Is the hotel handicapped ready, wheelchair accessibility not only in the entrance but in your room and hallways? Does the hotel have the availability of room service at your destination? These are just a few of the things you need to check on before booking the room.

Summer is in full swing, if you have not already planned your vacation now is a perfect time. If you feel uncomfortable traveling to far off places at first go close to home and see how you tolerate it