Traveling

[Perrster]

Greetings friends,

I am going on a short family vacation to the Bahamas early next month. This will be my first trip out of the country since surgery 3 yrs. ago.

Our adult children are fully compliant to be together for that time (I think mainly because they can legally drink and gamble!).

I was wondering what travel preparations you all take with medications, etc.? I will not need to have any INR tests while there as I am getting my monthly done next week. But, I have been wondering what difficulties I may encounter with security, especially with my medications. Should I have a letter from my doc? (I have not had any problems traveling within the US, but I am somewhat concerned about going to the Islands). Will my St, Jude Mechanical valve card be enough to explain my situation if necessary? Gina, you have been to the Atlantis. Any advice or should I shut the heck up and just not worry about it?

Thanks.

 

[Les]

Hi Perry,
I've traveled to about 20 countries since my first surgery, including the Bahamas, and I never encountered any questions about my medications. The containers have been opened up a few times but no one ever said anything. Any paperwork you feel you need to take certainly couldn't hurt. Have a good trip and enjoy! Drink a Pina Colada for me....( to hell with INR for a while...)
________________
Les AVR '93 / '95

 

[ALCapshaw2]

My Doctor advised me to be sure to take your medications in CARRY ON Baggage as she lost all of her pills (vitamins / supplements) on a recent trip to 'inspectors'.

Also, be sure to take the medications in their original bottles WITH the RX number etc as opposed to carrying them loose or in 7 day pill boxes without identification.

'AL'

 

[ccrawford]

Hi Perry - My last trip, they were pretty casual, so I don't think you will have any problems.

 

[RobThatsMe]

Hi Perry,

I agree with Al. Make sure your pills are in their original prescription bottles. Don't carry any pills in the 7 day pill boxes. You can fill it with them once you get to your hotel. Just be sure to put them back into the original bottles when you leave.

Also, Do you have a Medical Alert bracelet or medallian? If not, be sure to have a card with you that explains your meds and condition. Perhaps provide another one to a family member ..just in case..

Also, Be sure to carry extra pills, just in case you have an unexpected delay in your return. Hey, that happened to me on 9/11 !! I had to have my doc fax a script to a local pharmacy because I didn't have any extras.

Check your INR a few days prior to leaving.( Just to feel OK about your INR prior to leaving, and experiencing all the new food , and drinks!)

Hope you and your family have a wonderful time!!

All the best!
Rob

 

[LUVMyBirman]

Hi Perry,

You have mail

 

[Ross]

Have a great trip and grab a jar of sand for me please.

 

[cookie]

Hi Perry,
Cruised Carribean in March and had no problems with meds. I did call insurance company because some of my meds were going to need refilled ahead of the usual time. They have a "vacation" refill perk. Anthem BlueCross/Blue Shield. All and all the trip was problem free. Just watch the eating! They feed you all the time!!LOL Have a wonderful time. Atlantis is beautiful!