Epilepsy And Air Travel: What You Need To Know

Travelling with Epilepsy: What You Need to Know

If you have epilepsy, you may be wondering if it's safe to travel by air. The good news is that, in most cases, flying with epilepsy is perfectly safe. However, there are a few important considerations and precautions you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here's everything you need to know about travelling with epilepsy.

Planning ahead: Consult a doctor, carry necessary documents, and pack medication

Planning is key when it comes to air travel with epilepsy. Here are some essential steps to follow to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey:

Consult a doctor

It is highly recommended to speak with your doctor or epilepsy nurse about your travel plans well in advance of your trip, ideally at least eight weeks ahead. They can advise you on any special arrangements you need to make, such as adjusting your medication schedule if you're travelling across time zones. Your doctor can also provide you with a letter describing your ability to travel by plane and outlining your seizure action plan. This letter can be extremely helpful when navigating security and customs.

Carry necessary documents

Make sure to carry all the necessary documents with you when travelling. This includes a copy of your prescription, a letter from your doctor, and your medical identification card or bracelet. These documents can help airport staff, cabin crew, and fellow passengers understand your condition and provide assistance if needed. Keep these documents easily accessible, such as in your wallet or purse.

Pack medication

When packing your medication, there are a few important considerations:

• Bring enough medication for your entire trip, plus some extra doses in case of delays.
• Keep your medication in its original packaging, with clearly readable labels.
• Store your medication in your hand luggage, not in checked baggage. This ensures you have access to it at all times.
• Consider packing some medication in your hold luggage as well, in case you lose your hand luggage.
• Check the regulations of your destination country regarding medication. Some countries have restrictions on the types and amounts of medication that can be brought in.
• If you're travelling for an extended period, research whether your medication is available at your destination. You may need to get a prescription from a local doctor, which may require translation.
• Bring copies of your medical records and prescriptions in case you need a refill or replacement while abroad.

Laws and rights: Understand your legal rights and protections

If you have epilepsy, you are protected under the law when travelling by air, and you have rights that ensure you are treated fairly and without discrimination. Here is what you need to know about your legal rights and protections:

• Federal Civil Rights Laws: In the United States, two laws specifically protect passengers with disabilities: the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). The ADA covers all aspects of travel by bus, rail, cruise ship, and while in an airport. The ACAA protects passengers with disabilities while on board an aircraft. People with epilepsy are covered under both laws, regardless of whether they are seizure-free or not. These laws ensure that people with epilepsy are not discriminated against and are provided reasonable accommodations during their travel.
• Right to Fly: It is illegal for airlines to refuse boarding to a person with epilepsy. However, airlines may request a letter from your doctor stating that you are fit to fly. According to the Aerospace Medical Association, people who are still experiencing seizures should travel with a companion. While this is a recommendation, it is not a requirement, and you cannot be forced to travel with a companion.
• Medical Marijuana: If you use medical marijuana to control seizures, be aware of the laws and regulations regarding marijuana possession and transportation. Marijuana is still considered a Schedule I drug under federal law, and its legality varies from state to state. When travelling by air, you are in federal airspace, and TSA officers have the authority to detain you and call local law enforcement if you are carrying marijuana. Carefully research the laws of your destination and any countries you may be transiting through to ensure you comply with local regulations.
• Travelling with Medication: It is essential to understand the laws and regulations regarding travelling with medication. Always carry your medication in its original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor. Some countries have specific rules and restrictions on the types and amounts of medication that can be brought into the country. Check with the embassy of your destination country to ensure you comply with their regulations. Additionally, some medications may be considered controlled substances, and you may need additional documentation to transport them.
• Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is crucial when travelling with epilepsy. Ensure that your insurance policy covers any incidents related to your epilepsy and disclose your medical condition to the insurer. Shop around and consider using price comparison sites or an insurance broker to find the best policy for your needs. While disclosing your epilepsy may result in a higher premium, it is essential to provide accurate information to ensure proper coverage.
• Vaccinations and Anti-Malarial Medication: When travelling to certain destinations, you may need to consider vaccinations and anti-malarial medication. Most vaccines are safe for people with epilepsy, but some anti-malarial medications should be avoided. Consult your healthcare provider for advice on which vaccinations and anti-malarial medications are suitable for you.
• Airline Policies and Medical Clearance: Different airlines may have varying policies regarding passengers with epilepsy. Check the individual policies of the airlines you plan to travel with. Some airlines may require medical clearance if you have had a tonic-clonic seizure within a specific time frame before your flight. Contact the airline in advance to discuss any special seating arrangements or other accommodations you may need.

Triggers: Identify and plan for seizure triggers

People with epilepsy can often identify certain triggers that increase the likelihood of a seizure. These vary from person to person, but common triggers include:

• Tiredness and lack of sleep
• Stress
• Alcohol
• Drug use
• Hormonal changes
• Dehydration
• Bright flashing lights
• Specific times of day or night

If you can identify your seizure triggers, you can take steps to avoid them or lessen their impact. For example, if bright flashing lights trigger your seizures, you can avoid places with flashing lights, such as casinos. If you are triggered by stress, planning your trip activities ahead of time can help you avoid unnecessary stress.

It is also important to be aware of how travel may impact your seizure triggers. For example, air travel may cause sleep deprivation or increased stress and anxiety, which could trigger a seizure. Changing time zones, long delays, and travel times can also impact your seizure triggers.

• Keep a seizure diary to help identify patterns and common triggers. Note the time of day, any special situations surrounding the seizure, and how you felt.
• Speak to your doctor or epilepsy nurse about your travel plans and any concerns you have about triggers. They can advise you on how to manage your triggers and provide a letter explaining your condition and any necessary medications.
• Make sure you have enough medication with you during your trip, and consider taking extra in case of delays. Keep your medication in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription.
• Consider travelling with a companion, especially if you have frequent seizures or seizures that impact your awareness or behaviour. A companion can also help you avoid triggers and provide assistance if needed.
• Identify a pharmacy close to your destination in case you need a refill or replacement.
• Talk to the airline in advance and ask for special seating arrangements, such as an aisle seat or an empty seat next to you.
• Practise techniques to reduce anxiety and stress before your trip to help keep your seizures controlled.

Travel insurance: Get insured and understand what's covered

If you have epilepsy, it's important to carefully consider your travel insurance options. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Declare Your Epilepsy:

Some travel insurance companies may consider epilepsy a pre-existing medical condition, which could affect your coverage and premium. Be sure to disclose your epilepsy and any related conditions when applying for travel insurance. This ensures that you are accurately assessed and covered in case of any epilepsy-related incidents during your trip.

Shop Around for the Best Quote:

Different insurance companies have varying policies and rates for pre-existing conditions like epilepsy. Contact multiple companies and compare their quotes to find the best coverage for your needs. Don't forget to review the policy's exclusions to understand what is and isn't covered.

Understand Your Coverage:

When reviewing travel insurance policies, pay close attention to the specific benefits and coverage limits. Here are some key areas to look out for:

• Medical Emergency Expenses: Ensure that your policy covers unlimited or sufficient emergency medical expenses related to epilepsy, including hospital stays and any necessary treatments.
• Cancellation Cover: Choose a policy that provides cancellation cover in case you need to cancel your trip due to epilepsy-related issues. This can help recoup non-refundable costs.
• Personal Belongings and Travel Documents Cover: Opt for a policy that covers your belongings, passport, money, and important documents in case of loss or theft during your travels.
• Medical and Hospital Expenses: Confirm that the policy covers medical and hospital expenses related to your epilepsy, including any pre-existing conditions you have declared.
• Travel Companion Expenses: If you require a travel companion due to your epilepsy, some policies may cover their expenses as well.
• Destination and Activity Coverage: Ensure that your destination and planned activities are covered by the policy. Some policies may exclude certain countries or activities deemed high-risk.

Understand What's Not Covered:

Exclusions vary among insurance companies, so carefully review the fine print. Some common exclusions to watch out for include:

• Pre-existing Condition Exclusions: Some policies may exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions like epilepsy, especially if they were not declared during the application process.
• Repatriation Costs: In the event of a medical emergency, your travel insurance may not cover the cost of repatriation or emergency medical transportation back to your home country.
• Specific Activity Exclusions: Certain high-risk activities, such as extreme sports or adventure activities, may be excluded from coverage.

Consider Additional Coverage:

Depending on your specific needs and destination, you may want to consider additional coverage options:

• Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): If you're travelling to an EU country, apply for a GHIC or EHIC to access emergency healthcare at reduced costs. However, this does not replace travel insurance and may not cover all health expenses or repatriation costs.
• Medical Escort or Air Ambulance Services: For longer flights or more severe cases of epilepsy, consider using a medical escort service or air ambulance for added safety and peace of mind. These services can be costly, so ensure your insurance covers them.

Remember, it's crucial to be honest and detailed when disclosing your epilepsy to insurance providers. This ensures that you get the most suitable coverage for your needs and avoids potential issues with claims in the future.

Medical escort: Consider flying with a medical escort or on an air ambulance

Flying with epilepsy is generally safe, but those with uncontrolled seizures should avoid long-haul flights. If you have epilepsy, you may want to consider flying with a medical escort or on an air ambulance. Here are some reasons why:

Medical Escort

A commercial medical escort can accompany you on a commercial airline, staying with you throughout the trip to ensure a safe and comfortable flight. They are trained healthcare professionals who can handle an epileptic seizure without endangering the patient. They know how to time the duration of the seizure, position the patient on their side to keep their airway clear, and refrain from putting anything in their mouth.

Air Ambulance

Air ambulances, or medical flights, are often the more prudent solution for epileptic patients, especially when flying long distances. They are typically requested when a patient must travel long distances and requires special medical care along the way. Air ambulances have the necessary medical devices and technology to transport patients quickly and safely. If you have a seizure mid-flight, a team of medical professionals will be on hand to provide immediate care.

Planning and Precautions

Whether you choose to fly with a medical escort or on an air ambulance, there are some general precautions you should take when travelling with epilepsy:

• Bring enough medication to last the duration of your trip, plus some extra doses in case of delays. Keep your medication in its original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription.
• Wear a medical identification bracelet or carry a medical identification card to alert others to your condition if you have a seizure in public.
• Inform your airline and flight attendants about your condition in advance. This will allow them to make any necessary arrangements and provide assistance if needed.
• Consider choosing an aisle seat or requesting an empty seat next to you to provide more space and comfort in the event of a seizure.
• Be mindful of the impact of changing time zones, sleep deprivation, and long travel times on your seizures. Gradually adjust your medication timing if needed.

Frequently asked questions