Travel Tips for Metastatic Breast Cancer

In In The News by Barbara Jacoby

By: Ashley Welch

From: everydayhealth.com

While traveling with metastatic breast cancer safely and confidently is completely possible, it involves a bit of planning. Before you set off on your journey, check with your care team for the all-clear.

“Before traveling, a patient with breast cancer should first consult their doctor to confirm if it is safe to travel, considering their specific diagnosis, treatment stage, and overall health,” says Deena Graham, MD, a breast oncologist at John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey. “This conversation should cover the optimal timing for the trip, as factors like blood counts and postsurgical recovery can influence when it’s safest to be away.”

It’s also crucial to discuss medication management, strategies for managing potential side effects like fatigue or nausea while on the move, advice on necessary vaccinations and other health precautions relevant to the specific travel destination, and emergency preparedness, she says. Follow these expert tips to prioritize your health while traveling and ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Pack a Breast Cancer Travel Kit

Packing a breast cancer travel kit can help you prepare for any scenario.

Kai Andrews, a survivorship nurse practitioner at the Aiello Breast Center at UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center, recommends placing your travel kit in a carry-on bag in case your checked bag gets lost.

Medications and a Detailed Medical Summary

Be sure to pack all current medications in their original bottles. This allows airport security to identify prescription medications and keeps the pills safe from light and moisture.

“Bring more than enough to last the entire trip, with an extra supply in case of travel delays,” Dr. Graham says. “Alongside medications, a doctor’s note summarizing your medical history, including your diagnosis, treatments, and any allergies, is invaluable.”

This documentation can be critical if you need to seek medical attention while away from home.

Sun Protection

Breast cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can make the skin more sensitive to the sun.

“Packing a high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and protective clothing is essential to prevent sunburn and skin irritation,” Graham says.

She also recommends bringing a gentle, unscented lotion to help manage dry or sensitive skin, a common side effect of treatment.

Comfortable Clothing and Accessories

Comfort is paramount when traveling, especially for those managing the side effects of breast cancer treatment. “Loose-fitting clothing made from soft, natural fibers can prevent irritation, particularly around surgical scars or radiated areas,” Graham says. “A travel pillow for neck support and a seat-belt pillow to protect the chest area can also enhance comfort during long journeys.”

Kate McNair, PhD, NP, a women’s health nurse practitioner and the program director at the Beth Israel Lahey Health Specialty Care Breast Center in Plymouth, Massachusetts, recommends packing a portable personal neck fan.

“If you’re taking medications like an aromatase inhibitor or tamoxifen and are experiencing hot flashes, this is an excellent way to feel cooler quicker, even on a plane or on an excursion in a new city,” she says.

 A ‘Just-in-Case’ Kit for Side Effects

Be prepared for potential treatment-related side effects by assembling a small kit with remedies for common issues, Graham recommends.

“This could include medications for pain, diarrhea, constipation, and nausea,” she says. “It’s also wise to pack items like lip balm for dry lips (with SPF) and hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes to minimize the risk of infection, as some treatments can weaken the immune system.”

Manage Medications on the Move

Always check with your doctor that you are cleared to travel and discuss medication needs, especially if you anticipate medication disruption.

To help ensure you stick to your medication routine, consider the following.

  • Bring more than you need. Before your trip, talk to your doctor about your travel plans and bring more medication than you’ll need for the days you will be away, in case of any delays.
  • Keep medications in your carry-on bag. “If you lose medications during your travels, be sure to call your medical oncologist right away to inform them,” says McNair. “If you are in the U.S., they could possibly send an emergency backup to another pharmacy. However, if you are out of the country, you would most likely have to visit an urgent care for the same medication.” She recommends carrying a picture of your original prescription bottle, with the drug name, strength, dosage instructions, and your doctor’s name clearly visible.
  • Know how to dose across time zones. Check with your care team about how to handle your dosing schedule if you are traveling far and will lose or gain a significant amount of time.
  • Don’t double up on doses. Whether you lose your medications or accidentally forget to take your pills due to a hectic travel schedule, avoid doubling up on doses. “Missing a few days’ worth of pills will not cause harm, but do not double up to make up for the lost days,” McNair says. “This could cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and diarrhea.”

Prioritize Sleep

According to research, sleep is important when managing breast cancer because it helps maintain the body’s circadian rhythms and strengthens the immune system’s ability to fight the disease.

“For patients who are traveling, managing sleep disruptions like jet lag and adjusting to unfamiliar beds is crucial for preserving this restorative rest,” Graham says.

Before traveling, she recommends gradually shifting your sleep schedule so it more closely aligns with the time at your destination. “To improve sleep in a new environment, it is helpful to bring familiar items from home like a pillow or blanket, establish a relaxing pre-sleep routine, ensure the bedroom is dark and quiet, and avoid screen time before bed,” Graham says.

To help manage jet lag, McNair suggests considering low-dose over-the-counter melatonin. “You can take it in pill or gummy form, an hour before your target bedtime for the first few nights,” she says.

Take Steps to Prevent Blood Clots

Women with breast cancer face a higher risk of harmful blood clots called venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Traveling for four hours or more, whether by air, car, bus, or train, is also a known risk factor for VTE. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk.

  • Move your legs regularly and try some leg exercises while sitting, such as calf raises and ankle circles.
  • Stand up and walk around every 2 to 3 hours.
  • Talk to your doctor about compression stockings before travel.
  • Stay adequately hydrated.

Andrews recommends an aisle seat on an airplane to allow easy access for stretching and walking during the flight. “If driving, take frequent breaks to stop and stretch your legs, which can decrease the risk of developing blood clots,” she says.

Optimize Nutrition

“Proper nutrition is a critical component of managing breast cancer, as it helps maintain strength, supports the immune system, and promotes healing and recovery from treatments,” Graham says.

To optimize nutritional needs while traveling, she recommends focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

“Local fare tends to include fresh produce and regionally sourced meat and fish, which are great sources of vitamins and proteins and are vital building blocks for repairing damaged tissue,” McNair says.

Also, be sure to stay hydrated, as treatments like chemotherapy can cause fluid loss through side effects like diarrhea and vomiting.

“Dehydration worsens issues,” Graham says. “Air travel is particularly dehydrating and also increases the risk of blood clots. By drinking plenty of water, patients can help manage treatment side effects, flush toxins, maintain healthy blood flow to reduce blood clot risk, and support their overall well-being while away from home, making the journey safer and more comfortable.”

Manage Stress

Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, increase inflammation, and worsen treatment side effects, including GI issues.

Stress management is essential when living with breast cancer. To do this while traveling, Graham says proactive planning is key. “Preparing medications and medical documents reduces anxiety, she says. “It’s also crucial to set realistic expectations by not overscheduling, and building in time for rest.”

Packing comfort items from home, like a favorite pillow, can create a soothing, familiar environment, she says, adding that relaxation techniques like deep breathing or using a mindfulness meditation app can be done from anywhere.

“Finally, communicating needs with travel companions and staying connected with loved ones provides crucial support, making the journey less overwhelming and more enjoyable,” Graham says.

Emergency Care When Traveling

Andrews always recommends that her patients purchase travel health insurance that covers those with preexisting conditions, such as cancer, before any trip.

“This will help protect you in case something unexpected occurs,” she says. “Also, make sure to bring copies of your health insurance, prescription cards, and ID.”

Additionally, Graham recommends carrying a medical alert form of identification, such as a bracelet or wallet card, that clearly states you are a breast cancer patient.

“This should be part of a comprehensive medical packet in your carry-on, which includes a detailed letter from your oncologist about your diagnosis and treatment,” she says. “In an emergency, seek help immediately, present this information to the local medical team, and contact your insurance provider’s emergency line right away. They will be your advocate.”

Finally, she advises insisting that the local doctors communicate with your oncologist back home to ensure any treatment is safe and coordinated with your ongoing care.