Travel Tips

Traveling doesn’t have to be off-limits just because you have ulcerative colitis. Flare-ups are unpredictable, but if you are prepared for one when you travel, it will be easier to handle.

Here are some tips for staying on top of ulcerative colitis when you're away from home:

• Find a gastroenterologist in the city you will be visiting. Ask your physician for recommendations. If you are venturing abroad, call the American Embassy's Consulate Section to find a local gastroenterologist.
• Bring enough prescription medication to last the entire trip, and carry it with you on the plane, train, or bus. In addition, bring a copy of your prescription, including foreign brand names and generic names for your medicine.
• Ask your gastroenterologist for a typed statement detailing your medical history and the medication you take. This can be helpful in case of an emergency.
• Ask your gastroenterologist for written instructions on what you should do if your condition worsens.
• Find out in advance if trains and buses have toilets.
• If needed, request a special meal for your flight in advance.
• Find out if your health insurance covers medical costs in foreign countries.
• Keep your gastroenterologist's phone number and your insurance card with you at all times.

Precautions to take in less-developed countries

If you're traveling to a less-developed country, take care to avoid traveler's diarrhea.

• Don't drink local water unless you boil it first. This includes swallowing water when you're showering, brushing your teeth, or swimming.
• Drink bottled water with a seal or filtered water, and use it to brush your teeth.
• Avoid ice cubes.
• Don't eat food from vendors' carts or food that has been left out at room temperature.
• Stay away from uncooked dairy products, raw vegetables and salads, fruits that you cannot peel, and uncooked meat, fish, and shellfish.
• Avoid drinking noncarbonated beverages, such as iced tea and juices.
• Don't eat prepared foods like potato salad.
• If you do develop diarrhea, make sure you drink plenty of fluids (remember to boil all water) and avoid cold beverages, which can make symptoms worse. If you've cleared it with your gastroenterologist, you might also try an antidiarrheal medicine such as loperamide.

Signs of serious illness

If you develop any of the following symptoms while traveling, consult a doctor right away:

• High fever
• Shaking chills
• Bloody diarrhea
• Severe abdominal pain or distension
• Dizziness when you stand up or any episode of fainting

As with traveling, attending special events can be an enjoyable experience with a little advanced planning.

Information adapted from the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America website. For more information and resources on ulcerative colitis, or to find a local chapter in your area, please visit the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America website.