Living with Stage 5 kidney disease doesn’t mean you have to give up your travel dreams. With careful planning and the right precautions, you can still enjoy safe and fulfilling trips. This guide provides essential information and advice for individuals with Stage 5 kidney disease, including those on dialysis or post-transplant, to help you navigate the world with confidence.
Planning Your Trip with Stage 5 Kidney Disease
Before embarking on any journey, thorough planning is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s what you need to consider:
- Consult Your Kidney Team: This is the most important first step. Your nephrologist and kidney care team can assess your current health status, provide personalized recommendations, and help you plan your treatment schedule while you’re away. This is especially important considering the disruptions the Covid-19 pandemic caused to the Dialysis Away from Base (DAFB) system.
- Sufficient Notice: Inform your dialysis unit well in advance, ideally at least three months for international travel. Confirm their specific notice requirements.
- Medication: Ensure you have an adequate supply of all necessary medications, including immunosuppressants if you’re a transplant recipient. Keep medications in their original packaging and carry a copy of your prescription.
Dialysis Away From Base (DAFB): Dialysis During Travel
If you require dialysis, arranging Dialysis Away From Base (DAFB) is paramount.
- EU/EEA and Switzerland: Dialysis is often free in EU countries, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC).
- EHIC/GHIC Usage: Not all units accept EHIC/GHIC. Confirm with the dialysis unit beforehand.
- Application: Apply and receive confirmation from your chosen healthcare provider that your treatment will be covered on your EHIC/GHIC.
To access state-run hemodialysis in those countries:
- Notify your kidney team as early as possible of your travel plans.
- Ensure you have a valid EHIC/GHIC card.
- Identify a suitable unit and confirm they accept the EHIC/GHIC.
- Co-payments: Be aware that some countries may require a co-payment, which you will be responsible for.
- Non-EU Countries: If traveling outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland, you may have to pay for dialysis treatments. Check for reciprocal healthcare agreements between your home country and your destination.
- Private Clinics: The NHS will not reimburse costs if you opt for private dialysis treatments in Europe.
Alt text: A happy couple smiles in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, enjoying their travels.
Dialysis Options and Considerations
- Flying on Dialysis: Plan your flights around your dialysis schedule. Avoid missing treatments for travel. Coordinate with your dialysis unit to potentially reschedule sessions if necessary.
- Peritoneal Dialysis: Peritoneal dialysis fluid can be shipped to your destination. Coordinate with your unit or fluid supplier, ensuring the destination accepts the delivery two days before your arrival.
- Portable Home Hemodialysis: Discuss your plans with your Home Therapies Team. They can arrange for supply deliveries and advise on transporting your machine. Check insurance coverage for the machine with your kidney unit, as it might be covered by your household contents insurance. Remember to pack a plug adapter.
Alt text: A couple poses in front of a stunning mountain landscape, demonstrating the freedom to travel with proper planning and care.
Travel for Transplant Candidates and Recipients
- Transplant List: If you’re on the transplant list, inform your kidney team so they can temporarily remove you until your return. You won’t lose any accumulated time points. Longer suspensions may apply after travel to certain regions due to virus risks.
- Post-Transplant Travel: Always consult your kidney team before booking any trips.
Sun Safety and Vaccinations
- Sun Protection: Transplant recipients are at higher risk of skin cancer due to immunosuppressants. Practice diligent sun safety, including wearing hats, protective clothing, sunglasses, and high-factor (50+) sunscreen.
- Vaccinations: Certain vaccinations are not recommended for transplant recipients. Avoid live vaccines. Travel to malaria-prone areas may also be discouraged.
Dietary Considerations
Maintaining a kidney-friendly diet while traveling is essential.
- Consult a Dietitian: Discuss your dietary needs with your kidney dietitian to plan for meals while you’re away.
- Food and Water Safety: In areas with poor sanitation, use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth, avoid ice in drinks, and be cautious about foods washed in tap water.
Additional Support
- Kidney Care UK Holiday Grants: Some individuals and families may be eligible for holiday grants from Kidney Care UK to help with the costs of a UK or overseas holiday.
Alt text: A family enjoys a day on a sunny beach, illustrating that a fulfilling vacation is possible with Stage 5 kidney disease.
Conclusion
Traveling with Stage 5 kidney disease requires careful preparation, communication with your healthcare team, and awareness of potential challenges. By taking the necessary steps, you can confidently explore new destinations and create lasting memories. Remember, your health is the priority, and with proper planning, you can enjoy safe and fulfilling travels.
