Traveling with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may feel impossible if stress, eating unfamiliar foods, or a change in routine are some of your symptom triggers.
We understand your fears, but don’t want you to miss out on visiting new places or seeing friends and family because of your IBS. Our board-certified internal medicine physician, Dr. Samuel Fink, wants to share travel tips for patients with IBS.
Before you hit the road, learn what you can do to manage your IBS and enjoy your trip.
IBS is unpredictable, and symptoms may flare up at any time. Pack a bag with all the items you need to manage symptoms, such as anti-diarrheal medications, laxatives, or fiber supplements.
You may also want to include toilet paper, moist wipes, and a change of clothing in your bag for emergency situations.
Eating new foods may worsen your IBS symptoms, so try to stick to your usual diet. Pack snacks, and make sure your hotel room has a refrigerator to store perishable items.
You also want to scope out the restaurant scene at your destination and look at the online menus to find places with items that fit your diet. If staying with friends or family, ask to help with the grocery shopping or if you can have food delivered before you arrive.
Knowing the location of the closest restroom is essential when you feel the urge to go. Download a bathroom locator app to help you find the nearest facilities no matter where you are.
If flying, choose an aisle seat near the restroom for easy access. If driving, map out the location of the rest areas ahead of time so you know where and when to stop.
When traveling abroad, learn how to say “where’s the bathroom” in the local language and how to use the unfamiliar toilet ahead of time so you’re not trying to figure it out when the cramps hit.
Planning ahead, giving yourself plenty of time, and packing the essentials can reduce some travel-related stress, but not all. Use simple techniques to lower your stress when traveling, such as breathing exercises, listening to music, or gentle stretching.
Making sure you get enough sleep can also help with stress management and IBS symptom control.
Traveling with IBS is challenging, but not impossible. If you have a trip coming up and you’re worried about your IBS, we can help. Call our office in Tarzana, California, today at 818-609-0700 or request an appointment online.
We also offer telehealth appointments if you’re out of town and need help managing a flare-up.
