10 Travel Health Problems and What You Can Do About Them

Unfortunately, health problems can happen during your summer travels. Here are 10 travel health problems that can crop up, often without warning, and sometimes at the worst possible times. Fortunately, you'll also find suggestions as to what to do about them.

1) Diarrhea

Diarrhea is the one of most common health problems that travelers face. If you’re unsure about the drinking water, avoid tap water, ice and produce washed in tap water. Drink bottled water.

Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Make sure dairy products are pasteurized and that fresh fruits, vegetables and meat have been adequately cooked or peeled.

If you get diarrhea, take it easy for 24 hours. Revise your diet. Think bread, rice, boiled potatoes, clear soup, dry toast and weak tea.

2) Motion Sickness

To fight motion sickness, keep windows open so fresh air can circulate. If possible, make frequent stops for fresh air as well. Remember, motion sickness medication needs to be taken one hour before you need it.

3) Blisters

Moleskin, bandages, tape, solid anti-chafing stick or two pairs of socks can prevent, delay or protect blisters.

4) Respiratory Infections

If you’re feeling sick, rest and drink a lot of fluids. Cold medicines are generally available. See a doctor if it feels serious.

5) Abrasions/Cuts

Keep cuts clean and protected. Thoroughly clean and irrigate open wounds. Use soap and water. Make sure no debris is left in the wound. Apply a topical antibiotic cream and cover with tape or a bandage.

Also, before traveling, see to it that your tetanus vaccine is current to avoid serious repercussions from any cuts or abrasions.

6) Malaria

Talk to your doctor about starting antimalarial tablets before your trip. Use mosquito net if needed. Avoid malaria-causing mosquito bites by wearing long sleeves and long pants.

Use a permethrin spray on your clothing, tents and curtains to reduce mosquito bites. Use DEET spray with a concentration of 35 percent on your skin.

If you have any signs of malaria, seek urgent medical help.

7) Dehydration

Take precautions to avoid dehydration on long flights. Eat lightly and drink plenty of fluids, but avoid coffee or alcohol as they cause dehydration.

8) Sunburn

Prevent sunburn by avoiding the sun rays between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Cover up with clothing, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses. Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. You want a broad spectrum sunscreen which protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

9) Jet Lag

Adjust your sleep schedule two to three days before your trip. Avoid alcohol, coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverages. On long flights, stretch regularly and walk up and down the aisles. Stay true to the local time at your destination.

10) Sexually Transmitted Diseases

The best way to prevent an STD is abstinence. If that's not your preferred choice, you can find condoms at pharmacies and restroom vending machines. Or consider packing condoms before you go on your trip. Keep condoms away from sunscreen, lotion and heat which can damage them.

Sources:

"Common Travel Health Problems." WebMD Boots. Web. 16 July 2015.
http://www.webmd.boots.com/travel/common-travel-health-problems

Gavin, Mary. "Staying Healthy While You Travel." KidsHealth - the Web's Most Visited Site about Children's Health. The Nemours Foundation, 1 Apr. 2012. Web. 16 July 2015.
http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/outdoor/family_travel.html

McLaughlin, Erik. "Top 10 Travel Health Problems & How to Handle Them." Matador Network. Web. 16 July 2015.
http://matadornetwork.com/notebook/top-ten-travel-health-problems-how-to-handle-them

Steves, Rick. "Tips for Healthy, Happy Travels." Staying Healthy While Traveling in Europe by Rick Steves. Web. 16 July 2015.
https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/health/staying-healthy

Reviewed July 17, 2015
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith

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• Travel
• Wellness