Gastroenterology: Travel and IBS

Gastroenterology: Travel and IBS

IBS, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome, adds a level of discomfort and uncertainty to many everyday situations, but one of the things that people with IBS worry about the most is travel. How can you manage symptoms when away from home? How can you make travel more comfortable? Let our Gastroenterology experts help!

Preparation

The most important way to make traveling with IBS more comfortable is to prepare. Do your homework: how long will it take to get where you’re going? If you’re driving, are there places to stop along the way–and if you’re flying, how many airports will you have to go through before you reach your final destination? Asking these questions and more will help you create a plan and “expect the unexpected,” which can greatly improve your comfort–both because you will be able to handle symptoms of IBS, and because you will be confident that you have a plan. Also, remember to bring your medications and keep them handy wherever you are–and be prepared with the proper documentation to refill them if necessary.

Tips and Tricks

Let our Gastroenterology experts suggest some tips and tricks to make traveling with IBS more comfortable!

• Timing. When it comes to travel, it’s all about the timing–and that’s even more important when you have IBS. Make sure that you leave yourself plenty of time, whether that means getting to the airport early or hitting the road a few hours before schedule to give yourself some breathing room.
• Eating. Eating can be a challenge during time away from home, simply because you won’t have access to the same foods that you have come to trust. Just remember to avoid eating or drinking anything that may aggravate symptoms (especially fried foods, caffeinated drinks, and alcohol). Stick with what you know, and don’t try to get too creative with your food choices.
• Emergency contacts. Bringing the contact information of your primary physician along with you is beneficial in two ways. First, it provides comfort for your mind: you have a trusted ally in case problems arise. Second, it will minimize the time you might spend scrambling for contact info or looking for a different doctor if something were to happen away from home. Remember to bring those emergency contacts!

Interested in more info on living with IBS? Looking for Gastroenterology experts? Contact us today!