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GP warns thousands of eczema sufferers about a mistake that could leave them stranded abroad with unexpected medical bills, and top tips to prevent excruciating flare-ups.
Approximately 1 in 10 UK adults and 1 in 5 children suffer from the most common form of eczema, known as Atopic Eczema, according to the National Eczema Society, and that doesn’t include all the other types of eczema.
This often lifelong and incurable medical condition can leave many isolated, especially during the summer months.
With potentially over 8.4 million UK residents travelling abroad in September alone, it can be a challenging month for those going on holiday who worry about excruciating flare-ups.
Many people are aware of the common culprits to avoid when treating eczema at home. However, Dr Asimah, a GP and medical expert at leading travel insurance provider Staysure*, warns that there are numerous other health factors to consider as well.
Hot weather, sun exposure, saltwater, dietary changes, and travel stress can all trigger a flare-up and negatively affect your skin. “Eczema doesn’t take a break just because you do, and your dream trip might turn into a catastrophe with unexpected medical bills if you don’t take the proper precautions,” says Dr Asimah.
Ahead of National Eczema Awareness Week, Dr Asimah is now warning Brits that failing to declare eczema to your travel insurer could invalidate your policy.
“Many eczema sufferers, while it is a constant struggle with flare-ups, tend to forget that eczema is still a pre-existing medical condition,” says Dr Asimah. “Therefore, it must be declared on your travel insurance policy to cover you if any emergencies happen abroad related to your condition. Even if you only use moisturiser or over-the-counter creams to manage eczema, it’s still important to declare!”
So, before you book that relaxing beach holiday or long-haul dream trip, here are the things you must do when travelling with eczema:
- Build your ‘eczema kit’ and take it in your hand luggage
“The best defence against an eczema flare is being ready for one,” says Dr Asimah. “Bring a dedicated eczema kit with your medications, moisturisers, a light blanket (for insect protection without repellents), and cooling packs or cold towels.”
- Declare your condition and treatments
“Even if you think it’s minor, declaring eczema and how you treat it when buying travel insurance can save you a fortune in the long run,” advises Dr Asimah. “That includes prescription creams, antihistamines, and even herbal remedies like evening primrose oil to manage symptoms. Patch test new products such as sunscreen specifically formulated for sensitive skin and those with eczema along with new toiletries before your trip – don’t wait until you’re abroad to try these products for the first time.”
A surprising number of people forget to declare conditions like eczema on their insurance, often because they don’t consider it “serious enough” to mention.
- Be climate-conscious
New environments can trigger flares. “Dry air, humidity, heat, or cold, any of these could cause issues. Understand your triggers and bring more moisturiser than you’d normally use, especially if travelling abroad, where your usual brand may not be available.”
- Prepare for the plane
Air travel can be particularly harsh on sensitive skin. Dr Asimah reveals, “Cabin air is drying, and you’re exposed to germs and allergens. Wipe down your seat area with unscented antibacterial wipes and carry some of your medication in your hand luggage, not just in case of luggage issues, but so you can maintain your usual routine.”
- Call ahead to reduce allergy triggers
From feather pillows to scented cleaning products, hotels can conceal triggers that flare up allergies. “Request feather-free bedding, bring dust mite covers, and enquire about cleaning protocols. If staying with friends or family, inform them of your needs in advance.”
- Avoid food triggers
If your eczema is related to food allergies, pack safe snacks and research restaurants before you travel. “Getting stuck somewhere with no safe options can be stressful, and stress can trigger a flare.”
- Bring your documentation
If you need to carry large quantities of creams or liquids exceeding the 100ml travel limit, make sure you bring a copy of your prescription. This is also useful if you require early boarding or have specific medical needs during transit. Try to keep creams in the original packaging with the pharmacy label if possible.
- Have a flare-up plan
“In severe cases, you might need emergency care, so having your treatment plan, written prescriptions, and all relevant medical information ready could make all the difference,” says Dr Asimah.
“The truth is, insurers need a complete picture of your health,” says Dr Asimah. “It’s not about making things difficult; it’s about protecting you with medical travel insurance. If you need treatment while away, your condition needs to be on your policy to ensure the medical costs will be covered.”
With hospital stays and medical treatment abroad potentially costing thousands of pounds, failing to declare eczema could transform a manageable skin condition into a financial catastrophe.
The National Eczema Society says: ‘Eczema is a complex medical condition and it’s important to plan ahead when travelling, says National Eczema Society. Sometimes the change in climate and environment when you’re away on holiday can trigger eczema flare-ups. Make sure you take your emollients and other treatments and pack in your suitcase, even if your skin is clear when you depart. National Eczema Society has lots of practical tips at www.eczema.org including factsheets to help you prepare for your holiday. It can feel like climbing a mountain just getting ready to go away, but it’s worth it as the rest, relaxation and change of environment can often be good for eczema!’
Notes to Editors:
*Based on more 5-star reviews on Trustpilot than any other UK travel insurance company. Staysure has 82% of 5-star reviews, and its customer ratings are at an ‘excellent’ 4.7. With over 480,000 reviews, Staysure is officially the most reviewed UK travel insurance provider on Trustpilot.
About Dr Asimah, GP and medical expert at Staysure
Dr Asimah Hanif is a registered GP who now works with one of the UK’s leading travel insurance providers*, Staysure, as their medical expert. After graduating from the University of Manchester, Asimah has worked in public and private healthcare for nearly 15 years. She now blends her medical expertise with her travel passion to share insightful holiday tips and tricks with others.
