Traveling with BE tip: Good Communication

In a previous post, we discussed the importance of pre-travel exercises for everyone. But for those managing bronchiectasis, preparing our body with stretches and strength training is extra important!

Traveling often involves lifting luggage, long journeys, and unfamiliar environments, so being in good shape can make a big difference.

But that’s not all! Effective communication plays a vital role too. Talking openly with your travel companions about your airway clearance needs and rest requirements can be a game-changer.

Let them know you might need to schedule specific times for these activities or even stay back at the hotel sometimes.

Most importantly, don’t forget to have a conversation with yourself!!

As much as we try to keep all of our procedures in place, including exercise, airway clearance, healthy eating, and perhaps time for meditation and other non-sleep relaxation practices, sometimes there isn’t the time nor the energy for them on vacation.

It can be disturbing when this happens. But the reality is it’s probably going to happen repeatedly on vacation.

What I try to do is monitor my mood so I don’t get grouchy.  I stay calm about it with a five-minute relaxation exercise in the morning or even the night before a big travel day.  And I prioritize what I think is the most important of my self-care practices.

On a month-long trip to Italy within the first few days I got a cold. So it was easy to prioritize air clearance over exercise because I always take my exercise down a notch when I don’t feel well. I make sure to walk and move, but I’m less likely to do structured exercise.

Also, I did something I’ve never done before and took my rescue antibiotic on day 5 of producing more sputum than my usual. Again, not something I wanted to do and I would not have done it at home. I would’ve had a sputum culture before taking an antibiotic.

By taking the time to have these conversations beforehand, you’ll be laying the groundwork for a smoother, more enjoyable, and ultimately, more memorable trip for everyone involved.

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