Can I fly?

[Newly diagnosed]

Hello, first post on here! I was diagnosed as T2 after investigation of cataracts and have been told I have been diabetic for about five years. This has taken its toll on my body At my first diabetic eye screen I have been told I now have diabetic eye disease (R2 M1) but won't get to see a consultant until the end of October. I am due to fly to Budapest before then....what are other peoples experiences of flying with diabetes/retinopathy/maculopathy. I understand everyone is different and am trying to contact someone to get an answer, but am interested on what others have to say. Also who would I contact - the consultants office?

 

[Inka]

Welcome @Newly diagnosed 🙂 I think it would be best to check with your consultant and/or whoever did your eye screen.

 

[TheClockworkDodo]

Hello @Newly diagnosed and welcome to the forum. I agree with @Inka that it's best to check with a medical professional if you can manage to get in touch with one - if the consultant you're going to see is a diabetes consultant at a hospital it might be worth ringing the department and asking if a diabetes specialist nurse (DSN) could ring you back and discuss it with you, if the consultant is too busy.

If you do manage to fly, it might be helpful to get a sunflower lanyard, which will let the airport staff know you have a hidden disability so they will know you may need assistance. You can get the lanyard free from most airports, or you can get one in advance with a card explaining your specific disability for a small fee from here - https://hiddendisabilitiesstore.com/shop/make-it-yours.html?product_list_limit=40 (there are cards for diabetes or for partially sighted or for "several hidden disabilities", and you can also personalise them with different icons which show what help you might need - https://hiddendisabilitiesstore.com/sunflower-icons ).

 

[TheClockworkDodo]

I've just noticed that you have posted on a thread re sharps bins, @Newly diagnosed - does that mean you're on insulin or other injectable meds? If so you will need a letter from your doctor to explain to airport staff that you need to take your pens/cartridges and needles etc on the plane with you in your hand luggage, and you may also need a Frio wallet to keep your meds cool while travelling.