Cruise Ship Traveling for Oxygen Therapy Patients

Americans love to travel. Those suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are no different. Although certain precautions must be considered before taking to the high seas, even patients suffering from severe emphysema, bronchitis, or chronic bronchitis and requiring around the clock oxygen therapy should be able to enjoy a nice, relaxing cruise.

In order to make the most of your seafaring adventure, it is important to remember the following:

Notify your doctor and let him know of your plans. Doctors who know what you are doing make better doctors. The cruise company will most likely require some detailed information from your doctor regarding your condition, your medical needs, and the stability of your condition as it relates to travel.

Request the appropriate forms from the cruise company. Most cruise lines request four to six weeks notice of your needs prior to departure. While many ships may supply cruise ship oxygen supplies, most will require that you supply your own oxygen throughout the duration of the cruise. They should be able to assist you with coordinating delivery of the necessary equipment and home health care products to the ship.

Make sure you have an adequate supply of your prescription and over the counter medications with you prior to departure. Keep these in your carry-on luggage in case your checked luggage is somehow misplaced or delayed in reaching you.

Make sure you completely familiarize yourself with your portable home health care equipment. Label the equipment with your name, address, phone number, departure date and ship name.If you are not using an oxygen concentrator, make the necessary arrangements to ensure you will have an adequate supply of oxygen available to you during your trip. There may be a cruise oxygen fee, so check with them ahead of time.

If you are using a portable oxygen concentrator, such as the Concentrator Inogen One, it will not be necessary to bother with oxygen tanks or the cruise oxygen fees that may be associated with them. Again, make sure you have fully familiarized yourself with the proper usage of your equipment. The provider of your home health care equipment will provide assistance to you as necessary.

Typically, the only restriction placed on oxygen therapy patients by the cruise company is to avoid smoking and avoid areas where others are smoking.

Dependence on oxygen therapy does not have to mean restriction from travel. By planning ahead and taking the necessary steps and precautions, your cruise should be enjoyable from beginning to end.