ASK DR LINJAWI

I am going overseas on holiday and need some advice as, now on insulin injections, I am worried about travelling.

Sultan says: First of all, make sure you get a travel letter from your doctor that states you are on insulin and need to keep supplies with you at all times. This can really help when going through customs. Secondly, you need to buy a couple of cold packs to store insulin to keep it within temperature. I recommend taking extra insulin and splitting it between your hand luggage and suitcases just in case.

Hotels usually have fridges in which you can store your supplies. If not, ask for one to be sent to your room. But be careful – you don’t want it to freeze. Storing on the door or middle front is best.

The last thing to consider is changing time zones and adjusting insulin injections. Usually it’s best to keep to the time of your destination. Move your long-acting insulin a few hours per day and take short-acting insulin with meals. Remember to keep hypo packs with you and test your BGLs.