Traveling can be one of life’s greatest pleasures. There’s nothing better than seeing the world, meeting new people, trying new foods, and relaxing away from the grind of daily life. Traveling does have its risks, including illnesses, injuries and more. Here are some of the most common travel illnesses, tips on what you can do to avoid them, and what to do if you get them.
Most Common Travel Illnesses
Sun Poisoning
Many trips involve some time enjoying the sunshine. A trip to a tropical beach location usually leads to plenty of exposure to the sun. Unfortunately for many travelers, the sun’s power in these tropical locations is stronger and more direct than the sun they are used to. Even with sunscreen (especially when not applied as frequently as necessary) plenty of people end up with sunburns or sun poisoning. Sun poisoning symptoms are red skin, blisters, itchiness and some serious nausea. To avoid sun poisoning, reapply sunscreen frequently, wear a sunhat and cover up with as much clothing as you can. If you find yourself with sun poisoning, stay out of the sun, use cold compresses, stay hydrated, use aloe vera, and take an OTC pain reliever.
Urinary Tract Infections
A UTI can ruin a vacation like nothing else. Retaining urine for long periods of time is a serious risk for getting a urinary tract infection. Many of us avoid using the bathroom on planes and buses and finding a bathroom in a place you’re not familiar with can often be difficult. As a result, many people are more likely to retain urine longer than they should. Especially for those already prone to UTIs, this is a recipe for trouble. To avoid getting a urinary tract infection on your trip, stay well hydrated, scout out bathrooms before you go, and do whatever you can to use a bathroom when you have the chance. If you’re prone to UTIs, it’s a good idea to bring some OTC Uristat with you on the trip just in case. If you get stuck with an infection despite your best efforts, use some Uristat, drink cranberry juice and plenty of water, and speak to a medical professional. Often times a doctor can prescribe an antibiotic to treat your Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) fast.
Traveler’s Diarrhea
Traveler’s Diarrhea is another ailment that can completely ruin a trip. It’s unfortunately common in many countries all over the world. The symptoms of this illness are pretty self-explanatory and are incredibly unpleasant. To avoid getting traveler’s diarrhea, always avoid tap water and instead drink purified or bottled water and avoid fresh fruits and veggies in certain areas. If you end up getting it anyway, drink water spiked with a little salt and sugar to replace lost electrolytes and take some Pepto-Bismal or similar product. You can also try an anti-diarrheal medication like Immodium and see a doctor for antibiotics.
Another great way is to drink beer, no really, drinking beer is a great way to avoid traveler’s diarrhea since it doesn’t come with ice and many of the drinks are imported. So when you find yourself in another country, order a beer to avoid sickness.
Speak to an urgent care doctor in Las Vegas today if you are feeling any of the symptoms above.
