Train travel with postural hypotension, and other conditions involving autonomic dysfunction, can take extra planning.
Busy stations, standing for long periods, walking between platforms and unexpected changes can all make a journey feel more difficult. If you are managing these access needs while still wanting to get out and about, a few small preparations can make a real difference.
In this guest blog, Disabled writer and presenter Pippa Stacey shares some of the things that help her when travelling by train.
Request Passenger Assistance
Passenger Assistance can help you request support before your train journey.
You can use the Passenger Assistance app or website to share your access needs and request assistance from the train company. This could include support moving through the station, help finding the right platform, assistance boarding the train or support when changing trains.
You do not need to use a mobility aid every day to request assistance. If standing or walking through a station creates a barrier, you can explain this in your request.
You can also add notes in your own words, so staff have clearer information before you arrive.
For a step-by-step guide, read: How to use Passenger Assistance.
Use Travel Bands to manage symptoms. These are affordable accessories that you wear on your wrists while travelling. Each acupressure band has a small button on it, which you wear over the pressure point on each of your wrists. Although Travel Bands like these don’t treat the underlying issue, they can help to reduce dizziness and nausea while you’re on the move. My best advice is to put them on before you start moving, rather than waiting until you’re on the way to your destination.
Keep hydrated. Not drinking enough water can lead to a drop in blood pressure and exacerbate symptoms of hypotension. Although some people feel thirsty and dehydrated more often because of their condition, it’s absolutely vital to make sure we’re taking in enough water. Treat yourself to a reusable cup, and make sure you’re always carrying a drink with you.
Have salty snacks on standby. Increasing your salt intake is one of the most effective ways to manage postural hypotension and relieve symptoms. Make sure you have your favourite salty snacks (such as crisps or popcorn) to hand, or if they’re deemed suitable by your medical professional, you may also benefit from taking electrolytes. Some people with autonomic dysfunction carry small sachets of salt around in their handbags and ‘shot’ them when they feel their symptoms coming on, but I can’t say I’ve tried this for myself yet!
Elevate your legs while travelling. It’s not always easy to elevate your legs when you’re on the train, especially if it’s a busy service. However, even just crossing your legs underneath you while sitting on your seat can help to avoid a drop in blood pressure. If you’re a wheelchair user who transfers to a seat, I position my wheelchair in front of me so I can stretch out my legs and rest my feet on it. It has the bonus of being very comfortable too!
Hope these tips help you to take care of yourself and enjoy the journey!
About the author
Pippa Stacey is a Disabled writer and presenter based in Yorkshire. She also works in communications consultancy in the charity sector and has been named by The Disability Power 100 as one of the most influential Disabled people in the UK.
In her free time, Pippa enjoys theatre, reading, travel and blogging about her experiences at Life Of Pippa.