Avoid Health Problems When Traveling
Posted on May 28, 2013 by bob in In Every Life, Travel
Travel increases during the summer, whether it’s to distant destinations or off to visit family and friends. The joy of travel can rapidly deteriorate if health problems occur. Careful pre-trip planning can help to prevent problems or facilitate speedy resolution if problems occur. The following questions may be helpful as you make plans for your travel:
1. Are specific immunizations recommended for your destination? If so, what timing is required prior to departure? Travelers recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control are at http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/
2. If you will be visiting small children, do you need to consider a TDap or Shingles vaccination?
3. What supplies or medications do you use to support your health? Make a list of the quantity of various supplies you will need and how you will obtain these at your destination.
— If a prescription is required, your healthcare provider’s prescription may not be honored across state or country borders. How much will you need to take with you? Can you obtain this amount pre-departure or will you need to consider shipping refills?
— Check regulations of airline, train and other transportation venues about healthcare supplies or medications. Original containers may be required, or there may be a limit on quantity. Do your supplies or medications require temperature control and if so, how can you arrange for this?
4. What is the climate of the travel destination at the time of year you will be visiting?
— What will you need to be most comfortable at your destination? Decrease in temperature control from aging or health issues can increase sensitivity to heat or cold. Do you need to check ahead about heating or cooling where you will be staying? Can you plan for rest breaks with tourist guides?
— Are you especially sensitive to sun or temperature due to your medications? Will a hat, personal fan or heater, layering clothing be helpful?
5. Do you have special dietary needs or preferences you can take with you or obtain at your destination?
— Are there cautions about food borne illnesses at your destination? Consider the risks for hepatitis, salmonella, etc.
–What foods at your destination are consistent with the diet best for your health and that do not interfere with your medications? How is food prepared? For example, a problem could occur if you need foods low in sodium (salt) and none are available. Can you take foods/snacks consistent with your diet?
— Will you be able to plan times for eating at the intervals best suited to your needs?
6. Do you wish to take over-the-counter medications for pain, potential allergies, intestinal upset, insect repellant, sunscreen, etc? Ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider if there are potential interactions, undesired side effects, or a recommended interval for taking these around other medications or meals.
7. If traveling across time zones, how can you plan your itinerary to minimize jet lag, fatigue, insomnia, blood sugar fluctuations?
Be sure to carry a small personal health record that includes recent surgeries, health conditions, a list of medications with dose and time of day, and emergency contacts. Inform your travel companions of any potential needs or warning signals. Anticipate and plan for the unexpected, and you’ll enjoy your travels even more!
Arlene Morris, EdD, RN, CNE
Arlene H. Morris, EdD, RN, CNE is Professor of Nursing, Auburn Montgomery School of Nursing. Reach her at amorris@aum.edu.
