Stay healthy on your vacation

Baltimore, MD – Summer will not last too much longer.  The kids want a vacation and so do you.  Will the fun be ruined if someone in your family gets sick?  Whether it’s a quick road trip or a long flight, protect your health before you pack a suitcase.

• PLAN AHEAD: You know what to expect if your vacation spot is a family favorite but what if it is a new or distant destination?   Ask your doctor about health issues and health care in those regions.   Vaccinations or certain medications may be necessary.
• PACK SMART:  Remember to take any prescription and nonprescription medication you might need.  Pack the medicine in a carry-on bag if you fly so it does not take a separate vacation if your luggage gets lost. If you drive, do not leave medicine in a hot car.  Heat can affect some medications.
• ON THE ROAD:  Wash your hands frequently to protect against viruses and bacteria.  Also, buckle-up and take frequent breaks if you travel by car.  It helps keep you alert behind the wheel and gives everyone a chance to stretch their muscles.
• BASIC SAFETY:  Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.  Do not drink and drive.  Make sure that you carry any important medical history with you along with the name, address and phone number of an emergency contact.  Don’t forget the sunscreen and insect repellant.

Despite your plans and preparations, someone may get sick.  Be prepared for some common illnesses you may come across while traveling:

•        COMMON COLD:  Traveling may weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses like the common cold. Take care of yourself by getting plenty of sleep and staying hydrated.
•        MOTION SICKNESS:  Motion sickness is often caused by an inner ear disturbance reacting to repeated motion. This can occur on any moving craft, including boats, planes, and cars.  It causes symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, dizziness, and sweating. If you are commonly sick on a moving craft, speak with your doctor about motion sickness medications.
•      GASTROENTERITIS:  Gastroenteritis may be caused by contaminated food or water. The virus, however, may also be spread through contact with an infected person. Research your vacation destination.  Follow any travel suggestions or guidelines regarding food and drink for that area.
•      SUNBURNS:  While a sunburn may not be an illness, a severe sunburn may cause symptoms such as fevers, chills, nausea, blisters, headaches, and fatigue. Wear sunscreen when you are outside, even if the weather is overcast.  Limit direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
•       INSECT BITES:  Traveling may expose you to insects that carry disease.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevent (CDC) recommends the use of insect repellents that have been registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).   Protective clothing with long sleeves and pants will also help prevent bug bites.

 
Patient First doctors are available to discuss these and other healthy vacation tips.  Contact David Clark at 443-577-2907 or david.clark@patientfirst.com for interviews.
 (Note: Editors and reporters are permitted use of the attached graphics.)
 
Related Content

• Don’t Let Getting Sick Ruin Your Vacation: https://www.patientfirst.com/blog/dont-let-getting-sick-ruin-your-vacation.aspx?PostId=224&tabid=819
•  Plan Ahead for a Safe Road Trip: https://www.patientfirst.com/blog/plan-ahead-for-a-safe-road-trip.aspx?PostId=219&tabid=819