Essential Care Tips for Travelers with Sjogren's Syndrome

Friends with Sjögren's syndrome require several types of care, including: 1. Hydration: It's important to stay well-hydrated to help alleviate dryness in the mouth and eyes. 2. Artificial Tears and Saliva Substitutes: Over-the-counter artificial tears can help relieve dry eyes, while saliva substitutes or mouth moisturizers can assist with dry mouth. 3. Regular Dental Care: Frequent dental

I have a foreign friend whose two sisters both have Sjögren's syndrome.
They plan to travel to Taiwan for a week and are unsure if they need any medical preparations.
Could you please provide some guidance? Thank you!

Chu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/04/20

Dr. Gao Jiankai reply Internal Medicine

Hello, if your friend only has dry symptoms without any systemic issues (such as lung or joint problems), they can enjoy this holiday without much preparation.
As long as they regularly take the medications prescribed abroad, there generally shouldn't be any issues.
If you want to be extra cautious, you might want to check the travel destinations for nearby hospitals (with rheumatologists on staff), which can provide peace of mind for your friend.
Additionally, it is advisable to avoid overly spicy, irritating, or fried foods, as they may exacerbate dry symptoms.
The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2012/04/20

More Info

Traveling with Sjögren's syndrome, a chronic autoimmune condition characterized primarily by dry eyes and dry mouth, requires some thoughtful preparation to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are essential care tips for your friends as they plan their trip to Taiwan:

Medical Preparation
1. Consultation with Healthcare Provider: Before traveling, it's advisable for your friends to consult their healthcare provider. They should discuss their travel plans and ensure that their condition is stable. The doctor may provide specific recommendations tailored to their health status.

2. Medication Supply: Ensure that they bring an adequate supply of all prescribed medications. This includes any immunosuppressants, eye drops, or saliva substitutes. It’s wise to carry extra medication in case of travel delays.

3. Medical Documentation: Having a letter from their healthcare provider detailing their condition and medications can be helpful, especially when traveling internationally. This documentation can assist in case they need medical attention while abroad.

4. Emergency Contacts: Research local healthcare facilities in Taiwan that have rheumatology or immunology departments. Knowing where to go in case of an emergency can provide peace of mind.

Managing Symptoms
1. Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for individuals with Sjögren's syndrome. They should drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in a warm climate like Taiwan.

2. Avoiding Triggers: Certain foods can exacerbate dry mouth and eyes. It’s best to avoid spicy, salty, or overly processed foods. Instead, they should opt for fresh fruits and vegetables, which can help with hydration.

3. Eye Care: Carrying preservative-free artificial tears can help alleviate dry eyes, especially in air-conditioned environments or during long flights. They should also consider wearing sunglasses to protect their eyes from wind and sun exposure.

4. Oral Care: Using saliva substitutes or mouth rinses can help manage dry mouth symptoms. Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candies can also stimulate saliva production.

Lifestyle Considerations
1. Rest and Relaxation: Traveling can be exhausting, so it’s important for your friends to pace themselves. They should plan for downtime in their itinerary to rest and recharge.

2. Climate Considerations: Taiwan has a humid subtropical climate, which can be beneficial for those with dry symptoms. However, they should still be cautious about exposure to extreme temperatures and humidity.

3. Travel Insurance: It’s prudent to have travel insurance that covers medical needs. This can provide additional security in case of unexpected health issues.

4. Local Support: If they have any friends or contacts in Taiwan, it might be helpful to connect with them for local support and guidance.

Conclusion
While Sjögren's syndrome presents unique challenges, with proper planning and management, your friends can enjoy their trip to Taiwan. The key is to stay informed, prepared, and proactive about their health needs. By following these tips, they can focus on enjoying their travel experience while minimizing the impact of their condition. Safe travels to them!

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