Safe Travel During Treatment and Beyond

There is no doubt about it: Cancer is a life-changing event. However, no matter how much your life has changed since you began treatment, one thing you have probably noticed is that life doesn’t stop.

On top of cancer treatment, you probably still have all of the same responsibilities and needs you had before your diagnosis. This might include the need or desire to travel, for either pleasure or business.

Depending on the type of treatment you’re receiving and your overall health, cancer treatment might not automatically interfere with your travel plans.

Here are a few tips to make traveling easy and safe:

• Discuss your travel plans with your doctor and/or nurse so that they can help you with any medical arrangements.
• If you will require treatment or IV care while traveling, have your nurse help you make the arrangements in advance to ensure proper care and ease the stress of locating medical treatment.
• Carry an emergency card with your name, your doctor’s name, emergency contact information, and a list of the medications you are taking.
• Consider wearing a medical-alert bracelet or necklace, which can be purchased through most pharmacies.

If you experience nonemergency problems while traveling, call your doctor or nurse for a consultation. If you experience serious health problems, go to the nearest emergency room. The doctor there can contact your oncologist, and together they can reach the best solution. Visit an emergency room while traveling if you have:

• Fever above 101° F (If you are receiving chemotherapy, this will require medical treatment)
• Uncontrolled vomiting or diarrhea that persists longer than 24 hours
• A nosebleed that will not stop after applying pressure for 10 minutes
• Unexplained bruises or small red spots on the legs, face, or arms.

By being prepared, you can prevent many potential complications and have a plan for any problems that arise. This will provide peace of mind so that you can focus on the task at hand: enjoying your trip.

Date Modified: 5/12/2005