Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Why do I need to declare irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome occurs in almost a third of the population, and is the most common digestive disorder. It is a long-term medical condition and causes a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, such as bloating, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps. Basic travel insurance providers may not provide cover for lifelong digestive conditions, which can include irritable bowel syndrome, or more commonly referred to as IBS. A diagnosis of IBS might require you to disclose this when looking to purchase travel insurance - by doing so, you are covered for this medical condition in relation to your holiday. Before organising any travel plans, always check with your doctor or consultant that you are fit to travel. You should also ensure that you have a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), or valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you are intending to travel within Europe.

How am I covered for IBS under medical travel insurance?

Travel insurance which includes medical cover provides protection while you’re on holiday for any complications which might arise from your irritable bowel syndrome and any other pre-existing conditions. Should the unforeseen happen, you would be able to contact a 24 hour emergency medical team, who speak many languages and can talk to your medical team on holiday. Being unwell during your trip could incur additional expenses, especially if you need unplanned treatment or surgery. A medical travel insurance policy would also cover you for these costs, along with repatriation back to the UK if necessary. Included cancellation cover on your policy would also mean that if - due to IBS, related complications, or other declared pre-existing conditions - you would be entitled to make a claim for the cancellation of your holiday. Please be aware that different insurers offer different levels of cover, and you should check the cover limits of the policy prior to purchase.

Who can cover me for IBS and how do I find cover?

Our online medical screening makes it easy to compare travel insurance that can cover irritable bowel syndrome at direct- travel.co.uk. When declaring your medical conditions, you will be asked a series of questions relevant to each condition - these might require information such as any treatment received, any medication you might have been prescribed, or any associated conditions (such as food intolerances or anxiety). The answers you provide allow us to assess your current health situation, meaning we are then able to provide travel insurance quotes tailored specifically to your conditions. You may find the below links useful for information regarding your condition. Information from this webpage has been collected from the following sources:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) - NHS
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome | Causes, Symptoms & Treatment | Guts UK
• Tips to Make Traveling Easier - About IBS
• IBS: 5 Tips to Control Symptoms When You Travel – Cleveland Clinic