holidays

[tracyxx]

hi has anyone been on holiday to somewhere like Greece. been before I found out about lupus. bit more worried about it now.

[Tonkawoman69]

Hi,

I have recently (August ) been to Corfu. I have Hughes/APS which has a few horrible symptoms and I know Lupus has some too. But you just need to make sure you follow some simple rules with regards to flying which you can find on the website, you can get assistance if you contact the airline if you are have difficulties with mobility. When you get abroad they don't really cater as much for disabled people but there are disabled friendly places. So choose somewhere with no hills that are easy for you. I have been All inclusive so completely trouble free but actually if you get a villa it gives you the freedom too. Make sure you advise your insurance company of health issues. You will be fine. Don't stop your life. Go for it.

Andrea

[Slowmo]

Hi there, like you I was anxious about going abroad but took sensible measures, like wearing factor 50 sunscreen, going early int he season to avoid the summer heat, and always wearing a hat and taking shade where possible. It does sound a bit limiting, but a lot better than the alternative of not going.

Also, ensure you have adequate insurance cover, and advise your insurer of pre-existing conditions, we used insure and go who didn't charge any extra once we made them aware of the condition.

Basically, we went to the Canaries in May before it was too hot and took the opportunity for some r&r in a warm climate.

Go for it and enjoy yourself, like Andrea said, don't stop your life, just manage it as best as you can.

Slowmo

[farmerfester]

hi been to canada 3 times since sle one time temperatures were over 100f so coud,nt get out till late afternoon other time at niagra falls despite factor 50 big hat etc sun got me had to spend 2 days indoors sleeping most the time still enjoyed rest off my holiday cost off insurance is the limiting factor now

[Gillyg]

Hi I go abroad every year. I make sure I have full Insurence can be a bit expensive but worth it for piece of mind. Take extra medication, high sun cream factor and just relax and enjoy it. I find I am often better when on holiday think it is the relaxation no one can contact you so less worry about other people. I do take antibiotics with me just because that's what often sets me off. Try not to worry about something that may not happen and enjoy a well earned break. Xx

[nanaber]

I don't go as often now as before my diagnose but when I do go I'm sensible avoid the sun between 12-4 ware a factor 50 wrap around sun glasses and wide brimmed hat. Enjoy your holiday

[foreverafighter]

Just make sure to avoid most of the heat. Went to Portugal beginning of Sept, had to do alot of searching for shade! Check out the lupus uk website as there is a link to a travel insurance company for specific health needs. Have fun!

[Orchidlily]

Hi Tracy, I have had Lupus for over 20 years, ITP for over 8, have no spleen and Sjorgrens and have not let any stop me going on holiday, unless it's been against medical advice - which has happened from time to time. I have been as far as the caribbean but always make sure i have full insurance cover and tell insurers everything, yes it costs a bit more but worth it. Shop around for insurance, they vary enormously. Like everyone else I take care but life is for living albeit with a few restrictions. Don't let lupus stop you having holidays but always take medical advice and check you can get affordable insurance before you book anything.

[Hanny]

It is really important that you declare your illness on you insurance and be prepared to pay the extra, well worth it for the peace of mind, I always take my book Lupus Traveller, available from Lupus UK, it has phrases in several languages for every symptom you could think off. I also carry my latest prescription with me in case I need to explain to a doctor what I am taking. Another tip, make sure you carry your meds in your hand luggage just in case your main luggage is delayed and lastly factor 50 and a hat. I must admit I tend to get up early and get out and about, rest in the hot afternoon and enjoy the late afternoon and evening, Happy Hols

[esky]

Hi

I have just come back from Turkey and was fine. The break actually did me good. I wore factor 50 all the time. wore a hat and sunglasses and stayed in the shade. I have numerous health conditions and my insurance covered all of them for a reasonable amount of £75 - which not only covered me and my problems but my husband and daughter too. I too took my meds in my hand luggage with a copy of my prescription list. The break will do u good. Just coz we are lupies doesnt mean we cant enjoy ourselves we deserve a holiday same as everyone else ;-). Enjoy happy hols xxx