Airline Restrictions May Affect IBD Patients
New restrictions in air travel on some or all flights indicate that on international flights coming to the U.S., passengers will have to remain in their seats for the last hour of the flight without any personal items on their laps. It is not clear how or if the rule would affect domestic flights.
CCFA understands that these proposed restrictions may be challenging for patients with IBD. Each airline has policies relating to "Customers with disabilities." Most airlines have "special assistance coordinators" or similar staff that may assist you with any special requirements you or your family members may need. We encourage you or your family members to plan ahead and contact your airline well in advance of your travel.
New CCFA Brochure: Understanding IBD Medications and Side Effects
This new brochure gives an in-depth look at medications used to treat Crohn's and colitis and how they can affect you. Topics include over-the-counter drugs, the effects of medications on pregnancy and male fertility, and treatments for children. There's even a medication log to help keep track of what you're taking and when! http://www.ccfa.org/frameviewer/?url=/media/pdf/medications2009.pdf
New Fact Sheet: General Healthcare Maintenance
CCFA's new General Healthcare Maintenance fact sheet (http://www.ccfa.org/media/pdf/FactSheets/healthmaint.pdf) provides tips for patients on working with primary care health providers about other important issues including vaccinations; oral health; osteoporosis monitoring; blood pressure screening; and ophthalmologic screening.
Finding Bathrooms
We all know that with this condition, finding clean, safe restrooms is sometimes CRITICAL to our quality of life. Check out this website:
http://thebathroomdiaries.com/
This site locates "safe, clean restrooms" en route. With ratings for 9,000 domestic bathrooms and an additional 3,000 international toilets, it is the world's largest guide to roadside commodes. If you have an iPhone or any mobile internet device, this site needs to be in your Favorites!
Radiation risks from CT scans.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100614/ap_on_he_me/us_med_overtreated_radiation