Flying With Sjogren's Syndrome

John and I are heading out on Thursday to attend a weekend-long family shindig, and I can't wait. To get there, unfortunately, we have to take a fairly long airplane flight. I know that there's all sorts of very logical reasons why air travel has to be such a pain in the neck. Whatever. But the security issues and limitations on carry-ons and dryness in the plane cabin can be troublesome.

Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation to the rescue. The SjS Foundation's website has an excellent fact sheet entitled Tips for Airline Travelers With Sjogren's Syndrome.

I am impressed that the Foundation has been proactive in representing Sjoggies in TSA guidelines and exceptions:

New airline rules can have a profound effect on those with Sjögren’s syndrome. The Sjögren’s Syndrome Foundation continues to work closely with the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) to ensure the needs of Sjögren’s patients are met and most recently was invited to serve on the TSA Disability and Disease Coalition as an advisor on special needs. U.S. travel rules can change and guidelines vary at international air- ports, so check out the latest information on both at http://www.tsa.gov or call your airlines before traveling.

As a result of the Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation advocacy, Sjoggies may now take more of their necessary supplies and medications with them on board:

TSA GUIDELINES:

Policies apply to all domestic and international flights originating in the U.S.

If you have Sjögren’s syndrome, you now may bring an unlimited number of prescription and medically necessary OTC items in your carry-on bag. Prescriptions must be labeled. Allowable products include eye drops, saline solutions, and ointments, gels, or balms used to lubricate the eyes, mouth, nose, or lips. You must let a Security Officer know about your condition and declare these items for X-ray or visual inspection. Quantities may exceed three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag.

For reasons other than Sjögren’s or another specific medical condition, travelers now may carry liquids, gels and aerosols on board an airline, but items must be in three-ounce or smaller containers and in a single, one-quart, clear zip-top bag. Place the bag in a bin or on the conveyor belt for X-ray screening.

Click on the links above to read the fact sheet in it's entirety, and while you're there, check out all of the other great Sjoggie resources on the Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation homepage.

Like the Playmobil TSA playset? You can purchase your very own on Amazon, here. Be sure to read the hilarious reviews while you're there.