Tips on travelling abroad
- The EPDA have created an
online resource called PD Doc http://www.epda.eu.com/projects/PDdoc/) that
states, “I have Parkinson's Disease. Please allow me time. In case of an
emergency, contact [contact details to be inserted]”. This vital aid can be shown
when requesting help if the person with Parkinson's is unable to
communicate because of his/her symptoms or due to language barriers. It is
a printer-friendly document that can be simply and easily customised into
various languages and can be carried around either in a pocket, wallet or
purse. The Parkinson’s Passport extends the format of the PD Doc and
provides more detailed information concerning medication and treatment
that the holder has had or requires. In an emergency, the PD Passport
provides clear instructions and details of medical requirements so that
appropriate medical assistance can be provided
- You may wish to contact the
Parkinson's disease association in the country you are visiting as they
will be able to offer advice on travel specific to them.
Medication
- Check with the embassy of
the country you are visiting about any regulations concerning the
medication you need to take with you. In certain circumstances a personal
licence for the import and export of controlled medications may be
required if you are taking several week’s supply with you, so check with
your doctor or pharmacist, or with the appropriate foreign embassy
- As some medications are
known by different names in other countries, it is a good idea to check
the local names of the medications you use before you go. This can he
helpful if you run out or lose your medications. Remember to carry spare
prescriptions with you
- If you need to travel with
and use a syringe, check with the airlines in advance as some have
regulations and will require special permission to allow you to do this
- If vaccinations are
recommended prior to travelling to your destination, it is important that
you discuss this with your doctor so that these are compatible with your
Parkinson’s medications
- If travelling between time
zones, plan in advance how you will adapt your medication. It can be
confusing when you are tired from travelling. Again, discuss with your
doctor or Parkinson’s Disease Nurse Specialist if one is available
- Exposing some medications
to extreme heat can reduce their effectiveness so store them in a cool
place and take only a small supply with you when out and about. A small
cool bag can be useful
- You may wish to contact the
Parkinson's disease association in the country you are visiting as they
will be able to offer advice on travel specific to them.