Travel sickness: How to protect yourself and What to do about Health Problems on Holiday

Travelling abroad can be exciting and rewarding, but it also comes with some health risks. Travel sickness can ruin even the most perfect holiday, so it's important to be prepared and know how to protect yourself and what to do if health problems arise. This blog will give you useful advice on how to prepare for travel, including information on vaccinations, travel fever prevention and travel first aid kit tips.

1. Vaccination

Before travelling abroad, it is important to find out if specific vaccinations are required:

• Consult a specialist: Visit your doctor or a specialist travel clinic to get advice on the necessary vaccinations for your destination.
• Basic vaccinations: vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough and other common diseases may be necessary.
• Specific vaccinations: Vaccinations against yellow fever, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis and other exotic diseases may be required in certain parts of the world.

2. Preventive measures

Prevention is the key to avoiding travel sickness:

• Maintain hygiene: Wash your hands often with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer.
• Drink safe water: avoid drinking tap water unless it is guaranteed safe to drink. Use bottled water or boil water before drinking.
• Be careful with food: Avoid raw or undercooked foods, especially meat, fish and seafood. Eat only in reputable restaurants and avoid street food unless you are sure of its hygiene standards.

3. Prevention of travel fever (Jet Lag)

Travel fever is a common problem when travelling across time zones. Here are tips to minimize it:

• Gradual acclimatisation: if possible, adjust your sleep schedule to the time zone of your destination before departure.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water during the flight and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can exacerbate dehydration.
• Light and sleep: try to spend time in daylight after arrival and keep a regular sleep schedule to help you adjust more quickly to the new time zone.

4. Travel first aid kit

A well-equipped travel first aid kit is essential for managing health problems on the road. Here are a few products that may be useful:

• Basic medicines: painkillers (ibuprofen, paracetamol), anti-diarrhoeal medicines (loperamide), allergy medicines (antihistamines), insect repellents and ointments for burns and stings.
• Master Balm: This gel is ideal for relieving sore muscles and joints after a hard day's travel or hiking.
• Psorisoft Balm: Great for soothing irritated skin and relieving itching, which can be helpful for allergic reactions or after insect bites.
• Bandages and dressings:Sterile bandages, plasters, elastic bandages, antiseptic wipes and disinfectant spray.
• Personal medications: If you take regular medications, make sure you have enough supplies to last the duration of your stay, including spare doses in case your luggage is lost or delayed.
• Medical documents: Carry a copy of your medical records and prescriptions for medications, especially if you are travelling to countries where some medications may be regulated.

5. Nutritional supplements

Nutritional supplements can be useful in keeping you healthy while travelling:

• Vitamin C: Helps boost the immune system and fight infections.
• Omega 3: Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
• Multivitamins: A comprehensive supplement to ensure you get enough vitamins and minerals throughout your vacation.

6. What to do for health problems on holiday

If health problems occur during your holiday, it is important to know what to do:

• Seek medical help: if you have a serious health problem, do not hesitate to contact your local doctor or hospital. Find out about local medical facilities before you travel.
• Use travel insurance: make sure you have valid travel insurance that covers medical expenses abroad. Carry with you the contact details of the insurance company and the necessary documents.
• Aftercare.

Travelling abroad brings many experiences but also some health risks. Proper preparation, taking precautions and having a well-stocked travel first aid kit can significantly reduce the risk of travel sickness and ensure that you enjoy your holiday to the full. Remember to always inform yourself about the health recommendations for your destination and be prepared for unexpected situations. Safe and healthy travel!