How I keep sickle cell in mind when traveling to a cold climate

Traveling to cold climates with sickle cell disease can be daunting. Low temperatures can trigger a crisis, causing intense pain and discomfort. None of us want that.

I recently returned from a trip to chilly Switzerland, and preparing for the cold was crucial to ensuring my health stayed stable and my experience was enjoyable. With adequate, albeit 11th-hour, planning, I was able to enjoy the trip without suffering any sickle cell symptoms. Here’s what I packed and how I managed to keep warm to avoid the intense pain of a sickle cell crisis.

Among the most important things I packed were the makings of a solid system of layers, which help trap warmth close to the body and allow me to add or remove clothing as needed. For my inner layer, for example, I brought my trusted thermal underwear and fur-lined leggings.

For my outer layer, I packed a well-insulated, windproof, and waterproof jacket. Such a thick, insulated coat is a must for sickle cell patients in cold weather. I did, however, make the mistake of not bringing a coat with a hood! Since rain poured down on Day 2, I had to buy an umbrella in a country with one of the highest costs of living in the world. It was the most expensive umbrella I’ve ever purchased. Ha! Lesson learned.

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The extremities are often the first places hit by cold, so I made sure to pack thermal gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf. My gloves were insulated, which helped keep my hands from getting stiff and sore. A soft wool hat helped keep my head warm. I also brought along a few wool scarves. Keeping my neck and head covered made a huge difference in how I felt throughout the day.

One of my scarves, in fact, was big enough to double as a travel blanket, which I kept for the plane journey. Sometimes higher altitudes bring colder air and reduced oxygen, making them an optimal environment for a crisis. It’s essential that I have a blanket whenever I need it.

The right footwear is also essential. Cold feet can lead to discomfort for anyone, but with sickle cell disease, they can also exacerbate circulation issues. I made sure to pack a pair of heavy-grip snow boots so I could walk safely, even on icy surfaces. It turned out there was no snow during my trip, but at least I can say I was prepared! For more relaxed moments, I packed sheepskin boots, which provided a soft and insulated option.

Other safety measures

Although staying warm was my primary focus, I knew that hydration and nutrition would also play important roles in preventing a crisis. Cold air tends to dehydrate us faster than we realize, so I made sure to drink plenty of warm liquids throughout the day, including herbal teas and lots of water — though I tried to avoid having very cold water.

I also sought to eat nutrient-dense foods rich in iron and vitamins, such as red meat, whole grains, and fruits and nuts, which are especially helpful for maintaining overall health and preventing fatigue. But of course, part of the joy of traveling is eating well, which usually (at least in the West) means eating enjoyable foods that might not be so healthy. So please don’t think I ate like a saint for my entire trip because I did not!

Finally, I packed my usual medications and my supplementary oxygen machinery, as well as any emergency supplies I might need in case I didn’t feel well. That meant I brought options for pain management. It’s always a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider before traveling to discuss any specific advice or additional medications that may help during your trip.

Despite all the concerns, cold climates don’t have to be off-limits for those of us with sickle cell disease. With the right preparation and thoughtful packing, it’s possible to travel comfortably and safely. While the cold can pose challenges, it doesn’t have to be a barrier. Plan ahead, pack accordingly, and you’ll find that traveling to colder destinations can be just as enjoyable as any other trip.

Now don’t get me wrong: I don’t frequent colder climates often, and in fact, this trip was only my second time leaving my home in the U.K. to go somewhere colder. But I do want to challenge myself to push boundaries and defy limitations — while always applying wisdom. By sharing these tips, I hope to encourage other sickle cell patients to venture into the world and experience the beauty of new places, no matter the climate.

Our health and safety come first, but with the right precautions, an adventure is always within reach.

Note: Sickle Cell Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Sickle Cell Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to sickle cell disease.