The travel of sickle cell disease to the cold climate can be daunting. Low temperatures can cause crises, resulting in severe pain and discomfort. None of us wants that.
I recently returned from a cold trip to Switzerland and to make sure my health remains stable and my experience has been enjoyable, it is crucial to prepare for a cold. Despite enough plans, my plan was enough, but I was able to enjoy the trip without suffering any sickle cell symptoms. This is what I pack and how to keep it warm to avoid the severe pain of the sickle cell crisis.
One of the most important things I pack is the material of solid layer systems that help capture the warmth close to the body and allow me to add or undress as needed. For example, for my inner layer, I brought trusted thermal underwear and fur-lined leggings.
For the outer layer, I installed a heat-insulated, wind-proof and water-resistant jacket. Such a thick insulated jacket is essential for sickle cell patients in cold weather. However, I did make a mistake because there is no coat on the cover! I had to buy an umbrella in one of the world’s highest cost countries since the rain fell the next day. This is the most expensive umbrella I have ever purchased. Ha! Lessons learned.
The limbs are usually the first place to get hit by cold, so I made sure to pack hot gloves, warm hats and scarves. My gloves are insulated, which helps prevent my hands from becoming stiff and sore. A soft wool hat kept my head warm. I also brought some wool scarves. Keeping my neck and head covered has a huge impact on how I feel throughout the day.
Actually, one of my scarfs is big enough to double it as a travel blanket, which I res
Right footwear is also essential. Cold feet can cause discomfort to anyone, but with sickle cell disease, they can also exacerbate cycle problems. I made sure to pack a pair of heavy-heeled snow boots so I could walk safely, even on a cold surface. It turns out that there was no snow during my trip, but at least I can say I was ready! For easier moments, I packed the sheep boots, which offer a soft insulation option.
Other safety measures
While keeping warm is my main focus, I know hydration and nutrition will also play a major role in preventing crises. Cold air tends to dehydrate faster than we realize, so I make sure to drink plenty of warm liquids throughout the day, including herbal tea and plenty of water – although I try to avoid using very cold water.
I also try to eat nutritious foods rich in iron and vitamins, such as red meat, whole grains, fruits and nuts, which especially help to maintain overall health and prevent fatigue. But, of course, part of the trip is to eat a good diet, which usually means eating pleasant foods that may be less healthy. So please don’t think I’ve eaten like a saint throughout my trip, because I don’t!
Finally, I packed up my usual medications and supplemented oxygen machinery, as well as any emergency supplies I might need just in case I was uncomfortable. That means I bring choices to pain management. Before talking to your healthcare provider, it is always a good idea to travel to discuss any specific advice or other medications that might help.
Despite all the concerns, cold climates don’t have to be prohibited for those with sickle cell disease. With the right preparation and thoughtful packaging, travel comfortably and safely. Although a cold can pose a challenge, it is not necessarily an obstacle. Plan ahead, pack accordingly, and you will find that heading to a colder destination may be as enjoyable as other trips.
Don’t get me wrong now: I don’t have a cold climate often, and in fact, this trip is just the second time I left my home in the UK to get colder. But I do want to challenge myself to push boundaries and break limits while always using wisdom. By sharing these tips, I hope to encourage other sickle cell patients to venture into the world and experience the beauty of new places, regardless of the climate.
Our health and safety are the first, but with the right precautions, risk can always be achieved.
Note: Sickle Cell Disease News is strictly a website of news and information about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek advice from a doctor or other qualified health provider in terms of medical conditions. Because of what you read on this website, do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Sickle Cell Disease News or its parent company Bionews and are intended to raise discussions about issues related to Sickle Cell Disease.