Vacation should be a time to let loose, right?
Turn off your phone, eat and drink what you want, try new experiences and seek adventure, or spend a day being sedentary by the pool.
Sometimes, unfortunately, the choices we make on vacation can lead to us feeling unwell. And nothing crushes a vacay vibe like spending hours in the bathroom or, worse, an emergency room.
“Make sure you pack small versions of the over-the-counter essentials you reach for at home when you don’t feel well,” said Sonia Nair, DO, a family medicine physician with Endeavor Health. “It’s also important to remember how you normally eat, and what things can trigger indigestion or allergies before you reach for foods or drinks you aren’t familiar with.”
Keep your destination in mind as well. For example, if you’re going someplace hot and sunny, remember to bring a hat, sunscreen and even a refillable water bottle.
If you’re traveling to a country you aren’t familiar with, or one that has a higher risk of illness transmission, prioritize drinking bottled water and avoid eating food from street vendors, as that could result in illness such as travelers’ diarrhea, Dr. Nair said.
Going on a cruise? Bring remedies for seasickness, just in case. Bring a small first aid kit with ibuprofen, diarrhea medicine, an antihistamine, tweezers and antiseptic. Get prescriptions refilled before you go and make sure you’re up to date on vaccines.
If you have adventures planned, including lengthy walking tours or sightseeing, choose activities in line with your physical capabilities.
With proper planning and preparation, vacationing can be a breeze.
- Bring your health insurance card on your trip. You may need it. If you take medication, write down what each medication is and keep it with your card.
- If you’re hurt or sick, call or email your doctor for medical advice. Talk to a nurse in the doctor’s office. Find out if they think your situation is serious enough to warrant medical attention.
- Ask for a referral. If you need to see a doctor, ask your insurance company to point you toward a local provider. You could also ask your hotel concierge for a recommendation. Knowing where to go, if needed, could save you a lot of money (and, possibly, your life).
- Wash your hands thoroughly and often (and follow up with hand sanitizer).
- Drink plenty of bottled water.
Prevention should be top of mind when you’re traveling (and even before you go).
If you’re planning to travel abroad, consider scheduling an appointment with an Endeavor Health travel medicine specialist at least six weeks before your trip. Based on your destination and your specific needs, the clinic can recommend and coordinate any vaccines or prescriptions you may need.
Endeavor Health travel medicine
- Edward Hospital (630) 527-7299
- Glenbrook Hospital (847) 657-5670
If you undergo medical treatment while you’re away, follow up with your primary care physician when you return.
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