Considerations for traveling?

Hi, all ~

Are there strategies you've found that work when traveling? My hema's got me on a twice-weekly testing schedule, because my numbers are wildly erratic. We're taking a long trip next summer, and we're currently thinking that I'll do some Rituxan before I go and bring some Prednisone with me in case I need it.

Anybody have tricks that have worked while you're on the road? I'd hate to have to use that travel insurance we've already bought to be airlifted out to some hospital in a tiny town that's never seen ITP. My hema says we can contact the cruise line ahead of time and notify the doctor, and she'll send me with some orders, but is there anything else anyone can suggest?

Thanks, and good thoughts to everyone.

How long is your cruise? In a year maybe your platelets won't be so erratic - I moved overseas a couple months after diagnosis, we stopped in Maui on the way and I had a blood test while there and got the results immediately.

You said you would do some Rituxan before you go on the trip - my understanding is it takes a while for it to work so would it help you?

Yes, do contact the cruise line and see what may be available to you in the way of blood tests while on the ship.

You might want to post this in the adult section wher eyou will get more replies.

How long have you had ITP?

If you've been able to determine a drug that works for you, you can always carry a prescription around for it, or keep it w you if you show signs of bleeding.

I travel for work a lot, and I keep a prescription for dexamethisone, and also a standing request for a CBC, which I can pop into any Quest Diagnostics and get done. but I don't do anything unless I see signs of bleeding.

And I also carry a ton of Emergen-C and keep up with my regular vitamins as well.