Should i go on holiday?

[ThingsHaveChanged]

Ok, I cant get a job and hate almost every part of my life 90% of the time. Im not used to having no cash despite it now being almost 2 years since i was made redundant and diagnosed with Crohn's ever since Crohns has gotten worse and worse.

I have the option of going to Mallorca, i don't mean the Costa del Essex parts, there is a tiny village ive been to in the past, I know I like the area. The trip would be free so no expense there however I have no money for the entire time id be there and also no means to cover anything medical whilst im there, my instinct is to decline the option as I couldn't cover any of the costs of anything if needed. The other uber massive issue is Crohns itself, what would happen if things got really bad while there? i donno, anyone with any experience of travelling, please fill me in.

I have issues walking up hills, it causes me massive back and tummy pains, by that time I imagine I will be on a liquid diet so I don't have the issues with food to be concerned about but the realities of travelling with no medical backup, is that an issue? I dont know, ever since ive had Crohns ive been without money. I spend a lot of time being stressed about finances while at home, im worried itll be the same there only with less of the amenities of home, im pretty much housebound a lot of the time and as such use the computer a lot, im worried about being there and wishing I wasnt.

Is a change as good as a rest or could change be an undue amount of stress?
your opinions and experiences please.

 

[ThingsHaveChanged]

sorry if i just sound like a whiney burk, i recognise the idea of a free holiday would be a massive boon in theory but with no access to doctors and no experience of travelling since things have been nasty, i not so sure. im not very good at going into details, but using the loo multiple times a day and feeling like i need to lay down to stop my insides from hurt makes me wonder how others who have travelled did so.

 

[KayleighMeek]

Hi

I'm not an expert with this kind of thing but if you are travelling within Europe you can apply for an e11 card and this will entitle you to free healthcare in Europe if you would get it free whilst in the UK, lot of info on nhs website. So that takes away a bit of the scary bit if something did happen. Might be worth speaking to your doc about it a bit more maybe get some steroids just to make the holiday a bit easier, give you some relief
from the stomach pains.
Hope this helps

 

[Cat-a-Tonic]

I just got back from vacation last week, and I had been really nervous about going. I knew there was going to be a lot of walking (we went to the Grand Canyon) and a lot of driving and I wouldn't be very near a bathroom all the time. I brought extra meds and extra underwear & pants, had both my GP and my GI's phone numbers programmed into my cell in case I needed to reach them, etc. I made sure I was very prepared. And, I had a fun time! My guts gave me a little trouble, but for the most part things were pretty calm and I'm definitely glad I went. Only you know your body and how you're feeling and what you can handle, but if it were me I'd say go.

 

[ameslouise]

I agree with Cat - you know your body best. If you don;t want to take the risk, best to stick close to home.

Good luck - I am sure whatever you decide to do will be the right thing.

- Ames

 

[Astra]

I was gonna mention the e11 card too, but was beaten to it.
http://www.nhs.uk/nhsengland/Healthcareabroad/pages/Healthcareabroad.aspx

it's free!

I love Mallorca, not the mad Magaluf bit, but the quietness and serenity of the place. I think it would do you the world of good to soak up the sun, chillax and take it easy.
I believe preparation is the key to success, see your GP, get your meds stocked up and apply for the EHIC card.
But it's your shout, your body, your decision at the end of the day.
good luck and if you go, happy jollies!
xxx

 

[Mister_Hotspur]

Hi dude,

I would if i could but im flaring at the mo with a fistula and abcess lurking around with uncertainty of whats happening next. Depends how you are feeling and what you are taking med wise?

And if you can handle the day of travel and if your staying in a villa rather than an apartment id say go for it. Im betting the sunshine will make you feel better if nothing else.

 

[rygon]

Its not called the e11 card anymore its the EHIC if you need to google it. Also remember it wont cover you in private hospitals as far as im aware

The NACC have a list of travel insurers which deal in crohns http://www.nacc.org.uk/downloads/factsheets/FAQinsurance.pdf

I found it isnt that expensive really and is great knowing if you di have problems you have someone to rely on (remember to keep their phone No + policy No with you at all times)