A few gestures are enough to avoid many problems while traveling. Protect your health by planning the right medications, taking preventative measures on the plane, monitoring your food, and keeping a number close at hand.
Summary to stay healthy while travelling
- Prepare yourselves
- Walk on the plane
- Protect transit
- Stay connected
Traveling can have negative health consequences. The fact of flying and discover a new country makes us vulnerable to all kinds of diseases and injuries. It is therefore very important to be vigilant. Before your next trip, consider following these tips to stay in top shape.
Prepare yourselves
Depending on where you travel, access to over-the-counter medications you usually take may vary, and local laws and regulations make it even more difficult. Prepare a supply of basic medicines, especially those that require a prescription. In addition to the medications you take regularly, it is recommended that you take pain relievers, diarrhea medication and, if necessary, depending on your destination and medical history, antibiotics. Talk to your doctor about any vaccinations you need before your trip, and anything else you may need.
Walk on the plane
During your flight, try to get up, stretch, and walk the aisle at least every two hours. Sitting for long periods of time increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis, a blood clot that forms in the legs when there is stagnant circulation. Simple calf or leg stretches that you can do while seated can also help. The stockings are useful for stimulating the circulation of the feet and calves. Also remember to drink lots of water to hydrate yourself and avoid headaches, and avoid alcohol, which acts as a diuretic.
Protect transit
The diarrhea is unfortunately a common disease among travelers who take unnecessary risks when it comes to food sold in the street, local produce and other foods that have not been prepared or handled properly. Doctor Douglas Kaiden, quoted by the New York Times, advises to eat only cooked vegetables and peeled fruits served in establishments that you trust. This does not mean that you should avoid street food or local products altogether, but just make sure everything you eat is washed and prepared by watching the cooks at the stand. The constipationis also common during travel. Avoid it by drinking lots of water and eating a diet rich in fiber. A glass of prune juice can also help.
Stay connected
It is important to be able to reach your doctor at all times. Save the number as a favorite on your phone, and write it down on a piece of paper in case your battery is fickle. A simple advice from him can save you many problems.