Diabetes is a prolonged elevation of blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). More common in men than in women, it comes in two subtypes. Type 1 diabetes accounts for about 6% of cases. It results from a deficiency of insulin, a hormone widely involved in the blood sugar process, and mainly affects children and young adults. Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90% of cases. The pathology, which appears gradually and silently, is induced by a decrease in the sensitivity of cells to insulin. It often occurs after age 40, but the average age of diagnosis is around 65.
Before leaving, make an assessment…
When you are diabetic, it is imperative to prepare your trip carefully, especially if it is prolonged or distant. Before leaving, health professionals generally recommend to their patients, a medical check-up in order to take stock. On this occasion, the doctor will have to establish a medical certificate detailing the pathology and the treatment of his patient, as well as an emergency prescription to alleviate a possible emergency situation.
For trips abroad, an application for a European health insurance card is strongly recommended. Issued by the primary health insurance fund, this card facilitates the payment of medical care on European territory. Of course, a person with diabetes must always carry their iDiabetes card, which can be downloaded via the eponymous application: it is a real digital identity card for the patient’s diabetes.
During the trip, monitor blood sugar
The strategy to be employed differs according to the mode of transport chosen. For a car trip, it is essential to determine your route in advance, and to schedule regular breaks during which it will be possible to rest and move a little. It may then be necessary to carry out self-monitoring of blood glucose and, if necessary, to “sugar up” in the event of hypoglycemia.
During the entire journey, it is imperative that the insulin is not exposed to the sun, as it cannot withstand temperatures above 30°C. Also be careful not to keep it in a cooler, as it can freeze when stored in a cold environment (below 4°C).
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