Shopping

One of the first things you might have noticed changing as a result of your acromegaly is your shoe size, particularly the width, or that your rings no longer fit.

While treatment for acromegaly can reduce some of the soft tissue growth, it cannot undo any bones that may have grown. As a result, you may find it difficult to find shoes that fit on the high street. Shopping online will give you access to a greater range of sizes and styles, and you get to try them out in the comfort of your own home.

Travelling abroad

There is no reason why acromegaly should stop you from travelling abroad. It is a good idea to visit your doctor prior to travelling, who can advise on self-administration of your medication or make arrangements for you to receive treatment while you are away.

Your doctor can also provide you with a letter about your acromegaly and medication, which is important to take with you. This will be essential if you become ill and need medical care while you are away, or when travelling through airports, for example, and you need to explain what your medication is for.

It’s also a good idea to make sure you are covered by appropriate travel insurance. Not all insurance companies will cover people with pre-existing conditions, so you might want to shop around and ask questions to make sure you’re covered properly. If you are unsure, speak to your doctor to check that you understand how to explain your acromegaly to insurers.

Work and study

Having acromegaly doesn’t necessarily mean you have to give up your work or education.

Depending on how you are feeling, you may be able to carry on full-time, or you may need to adjust your working hours or work from home.

You don’t have to discuss your condition with your employer, but if you feel able to, it might be a good idea to let them know if you think your symptoms or treatment affect your work or if you need to take time off to attend medical appointments.