November 18, 2014 | written by IVX Health

How to Enjoy Traveling with Ulcerative Colitis During the Holidays

Thanksgiving is one of the biggest holidays of the year for traveling, but even with the promise of a delicious meal waiting for you, traveling with ulcerative colitis (or Crohn’s or other chronic illnesses that affect your digestive system) can be daunting. But if you follow the ulcerative colitis travel tips below, you can avoid trouble and enjoy your vacation.

Choose Air Travel if Possible

Air travel is the easiest way for those with ulcerative colitis to traverse long distances. Traveling by plane allows you to be near a bathroom the entire time. If you do choose air travel, pack the same emergency items as you would in a car (see “Be Prepared” below), and choose an aisle seat. Don’t be afraid to ask flight attendants for help either — that’s what they’re there for. If air travel isn’t an option for you, don’t worry — you can still make long drives with the right preparation.

Make a Plan

Taking a road trip with ulcerative colitis is probably not the time for unexpected detours to see the largest ball of twine. Instead, map out your itinerary and route, complete with pit stops for planned bathroom breaks. And you can even plan for the unexpected bathroom break (they happen to everyone, not just folks with ulcerative colitis!) with the SitorSquat app developed by Charmin.

Be Prepared

It’s a good rule of thumb for all travelers to keep an emergency kit in the car, but ulcerative colitis patients should add a few extra items, such as your insurance information, any prescriptions you might need filled, your doctor’s number, a change of clothes and underwear, moist towelettes or wipes, and any incontinence products that’ll make your travel easier. You might even consider taking along a portable toilet, just in case.

Relax and Have Fun

That’s not just advice for a good time — it’s advice for good health, too! Stress exacerbates ulcerative colitis symptoms, so avoiding stress can help your body handle the trip better. Planning ahead as much as you can gives you a better shot at avoiding stressful experiences, but remaining calm and remembering to laugh when the unexpected happens can go a long way toward a good travel experience.

IV Treatment for Ulcerative Colitis at IVX Health

If IV treatment is part of your regimen for managing ulcerative colitis, know that you have options for where to receive that treatment. If having IV treatment in a spa-like setting at a time and location that are convenient for you sounds good, then it’s time for you to check out IVX Health.

We believe you should start feeling better the moment you walk in the door. If you’re ready to experience the difference IVX Health can make in your life, give us a call at either one of our two convenient locations in Lee’s Summit or Overland Park.

Treatment at IVX Health

If biologics like Remicade , Actemra or Orencia are a part of your chronic illness treatment plan, then consider choosing IVX Health for your ongoing care needs. IVX Health makes it possible to receive your therapy in a comfortable, convenient, and private environment.

With a private suite for every patient, you can watch your favorite Netflix show or movie on the big screen TV in each room, use a laptop or other mobile device to surf the web, or simply hang out with family and friends. We always have chairs for guests, and each center has a family room that is spacious and private if you need to bring your kids to your treatment. We also offer flexible appointment scheduling – including evenings and Saturdays – at any of our convenient locations.

At IVX Health, we truly are invested in helping you live your best life. If you’re ready to experience a new kind of infusion clinic, click here to learn how to move your infusion or injection therapy to IVX Health.