Chronic illness (Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, POTS, MCAS, autoimmune, fibromyalgia, IBS, etc) changes the way you pack your purse to go about your day! Because you never know what symptoms you're going to encounter. If it gets too heavy to car...
I always have at least 1 of these on hand - both for icing an injury or for heat intolerance/POTS flares.
Instant Ice Cold Pack (4”x 5.5”)
Instead of bringing multiple bottles for medications, I use these little cases that actually hold a good number of pills. Make sure to label them!
Mini Medicine Storage Container
They activate when you open the pouch, so these are easy to carry if heat helps with back pain.
ThermaCare HeatWraps Lower Back Pain Therapy
I find these really helpful to have on hand for muscle pain.
Salonpas Pain Relieving Patch
Having a TENS unit can be a lifesaver, and they are small enough to carry pretty easily.
AUVON Dual Channel TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator
A silent fidget toy that can double as a light massage roller on skin.
Silicone Magnetic Balls Fidget Toys
These are so quick drying, pack pretty small and easy to carry. Really effective if you deal with excessive sweating.
BOGI 4 Pack Microfiber Quick Dry Towels
I prefer a joint-specific wrap if I'm at home to get one from my stash, but these are what I carry with me in case a joint acts up when I'm out somewhere.
Elastic Bandage with Self-Closure 3 Inch Width
Easy to take quickly anywhere you are and boost electrolyte levels as needed.
Vitassium Fruit Punch FastChews
I use these when I need caffeine with my electrolytes. One of the few caffeine options that doesn't give me jitters or stomach reactions!
Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy + Electrolytes
Hand sanitizer is a must. Love these ones!
Beach Coco Power Mist Hydrating Hand Sanitizer - Touchland
Electrolytes in individual packets can be so expensive these days, but here is a cheaper option I like to carry.
Emergen-C Hydration+ Electrolyte Drink Mix
While it would be great if this were not the case - IBS can feel so embarrassing, especially around people you don't know very well.
Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go Toilet Spray
Great for overwhelm and self regulating, but also masking bathroom sounds in a flare.
Babelio White Noise Sound Machine Travel
Tiny packs of flushable wipes!
Impossibly Compact Travel Flushable Wipes with Natural Extracts
I always carry a portable fan with me. These are easy to swap out for charging!
JODNO Mini Portable Fan 3 Pack
I've had POTS for a long time, so I don't always monitor vitals directly. But when I am actively symptom tracking, I like to carry a small pulse ox in my purse.
Innovo iP900BP-B Fingertip Pulse Oximeter Bluetooth
As I've said, I don't always monitor vitals regularly, but when I need to - this is a portable option for blood pressure readings.
iHealth Push Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor
Always better to be prepared when you have a tricky digestive system, in my opinion.
Disposable Emesis Bags for Adults & Kids
These are great for cold hands but also can be good to use before a blood draw.