Managing Diabetes while on Holidays

 
Carbimazole is a commonly used medicine used to treat hyperthyroidism.

Planning a holidays or some travel plans? Taking time away from your normal routine can be a little more complicated for patients with diabetes. Find out what to pack in your emergency travel kit, and when to seek medical attention when you're traveling away from home.

What to pack in your emergency travel kit:

  • Icepack that does not need refrigeration.

  • Insulin pump emergency numbers.

  • Long acting insulin eg. Lantus, Levemir.

  • Short acting insulin pen or syringes.

  • Anti-nausea + anti-diarrhoea medication.

  • Treatment for gastro (eg. gastrolyte).

  • Canesten/anti-fungal cream if prone to thrush.

  • Thermometer.

  • PG & Endocrinologist phone numbers.

  • Ketone strips.

  • Glucagon injection kit (for traveling companion to administer).

When should I seek medical attention?

Seek medical attention if you:

  • Are drowsy of confused.

  • Have deep, rapid breathing or shortness of breath.

  • Have stomach pain.

  • Have a ‘fruity’ odour to your breath.

  • Can’t keep food or fluids down and experiencing persistent vomiting/diarrhoea.

  • Are showing signs of dehydration (extreme thirst, weakness, confusion, lack of urination).

  • Have blood glucose levels that continue to rise despite taking 2 extra doses of insulin (with at least 2 hours between each extra dose of rapid-acting insulin).

  • Have blood ketone levels greater than 1.5mmol/L, or you have had a severe hypo.

  • Are not well enough to follow your sick day plan or you don’t have anyone to help you.

 
Sydney Endocrinology, Diabetes EducationKatherine TonksSydney Endocrinology