Type 1 going to India for 3 weeks

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brakes

Member
Messages
14
Hi,

I've managed to get a month off work so will be going to Kerala with my girlfriend for 3 weeks. I'm a pump user (accu chek combo) and plan to take pens as backups.

Does anyone have any recommendations for insurance companies or general tips for medical help whilst out there.

Thanks.
 
A

abs

Well-Known Member
Messages
261
Type of diabetes
Type 1
Treatment type
Insulin
I used bupa for my insurance just spent past few weeks in tanazina volunteering so wanted good cover knowing the African health system.

Enjoy your break.
 
anna29

anna29

Well-Known Member
Retired Moderator
Messages
4,789
Type of diabetes
Type 2
Treatment type
Insulin
Dislikes
Cruelty to Animals/Children
Liars/Manipulators/Bullying
Hi brakes.
Lucky you and your girlfriend having 3 weeks together travelling in india.
This will be both an adventure and a great life experience for you both.
I hope you both enjoy it immensley . . . :thumbup:

For your back up pens consider the 'frio insulin wallets' for these...
They are ideal to 'KEEP' insulin cool in the warmer countries.
Also there is a travel sized sharps bin available too.

I have both of these and have found them to be a god send .
Light weight and do the job effectively, giving great piece of mind too.
Hope this can help you ?

Anna. :D
 
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goji

Well-Known Member
Messages
251
You will have an amazing time - I'm very envious.

Agree with the others that frio bags are essential to keep your insulin cool.

I got a terrible stomach problems in India but didn't bother to go to a doctor. It lasted for 3 weeks and kind of ruined my trip. I wish now i'd just gone to a doctor to get some antibiotics. If you get sick - don't hesitate to seek medical attention.

I also lost my insulin pen out there and was able to buy one from a chemist for about £15 - no prescription required.
 
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Elc1112

Well-Known Member
Messages
709
Oh you lucky thing! I bet you'll have an amazing time :)

I have travel insurance through BUPA and they cover everything diabetes-related. When I was abroad a few years ago I lost my spare insulin cartridges. I contacted them and they had some new cartridges sent to me within hours. I couldn't fault them. They are more expensive than some but, in my opinion, provide excellent cover for diabetes.

Whoever you go with make sure they will insure against pre existing conditions. Check what they will provide etc. Other than that, perhaps get some frio bags to keep your insulin cool (unless you're staying in a place with a fridge). I don't use a pump so I have no idea about the rules for getting through airport security but I can't imagine you'd have any problems if you read some of the advice given above by others.

Hope you have an amazing time! Em
 
S

sengawalker

Newbie
Messages
2
I'm not type 1, (i'm type 2) however, to help with Delhi belly, I always take pro-biotics (can get them from most chemists) and take for about 3 weeks prior to trip, it really seems to help. my husband and I love India, we go regularly. you'll have a fantastic time! visit lighthouse beach whilst there.
 
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Daveoj71

Newbie
Messages
4
I got back form India at the beginning of March this year. I just ensured that as soon as i arrived there that any insulin that I weren't using straight away went into a fridge. I always carried some glucose with me, and ensured I had my ID card with me. The chemist over there are pretty good, so i can not see any issues regarding losing stock and having to replace it. Due to the cleanliness over there I always always always used alcohol gel on my hands and on my test site and injection site every test and injection, as well as always using clean needles every time, which i hope you do anyway? I also got a cover letter off my GP regarding my condition, just in case Indian customs stopped and questioned me.

You'll be fine, enjoy, and wish I was going back again this year :(

JD
 
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brakes

Member
Messages
14
Thank you everyone for getting back to me. I previously used frio pads for holidays abroad. With a pump I plan on putting my insulin in there, do I need to do anything special with it?
 
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NigelM

Active Member
Messages
41
Type of diabetes
Type 1
Treatment type
Pump
Nothing special. I treat the insulin exactly the same as cartridges. You will need to take some spare infusion kits and cartridge packs. Split them across 2 different bags. Take more than you could possibly use. I got stuck by the Icelandic volcano and was away for nearly 2 weeks more that I had planned. I nearly missed a plane in the States as I didn't trust the X-ray machines on the pump. I was taken to one side and searched and all my bags were checked. Since then, I disconnect and run it through the machine. Never had a problem.
 
B

brakes

Member
Messages
14
I was recommended by Roche if I need take the pump off to disconnect the battery and put it through with my hand luggage.

Can insulin be treated in such a way?

Thank you.
 
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