Going on vacation is supposed to be a time of relaxation and rejuvenation. However, sometimes things don’t go as planned and we end up getting sick.
Whether it’s from trying new foods, exposure to different climates or simply being run down from travel, getting sick on vacation can be a major inconvenience. In this article, we’ll explore what it’s called when you get sick on vacation.
Traveler’s diarrhea
One of the most common illnesses that travelers experience is traveler’s diarrhea. This condition is caused by eating food or drinking water that contains bacteria, viruses or parasites that your body is not used to. Symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Prevention
To prevent traveler’s diarrhea, it’s important to be cautious about what you eat and drink while traveling. Avoid drinking tap water or using ice in your drinks unless you know it’s safe. Stick to bottled water or other bottled beverages.
When it comes to food, choose restaurants that are busy with a high turnover of customers. This will ensure that the food is fresh and likely to be safe for consumption. Additionally, avoid raw fruits and vegetables that may have been washed in unclean water.
Treatment
If you do end up with traveler’s diarrhea, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids such as water or sports drinks that contain electrolytes. Over-the-counter medications like loperamide (Imodium) can help relieve symptoms like diarrhea.
It’s also important to rest and let your body heal naturally. If symptoms persist for more than a few days or become severe, seek medical attention from a healthcare professional.
Jet lag
Another common ailment associated with travel is jet lag. Jet lag occurs when your body clock becomes disrupted due to long-distance travel across multiple time zones. Symptoms of jet lag can include fatigue, insomnia, headaches and digestive issues.
To prevent jet lag, it’s important to adjust your sleep schedule before you travel. Gradually shift your bedtime and wake time over a few days to match the time zone of your destination. Additionally, stay hydrated during your flight and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
To help alleviate symptoms of jet lag, try to stick to a regular sleep schedule once you arrive at your destination. Get outside in natural sunlight during the day to help reset your body clock. Over-the-counter medications like melatonin may also be helpful in promoting sleep.
Sunburn
Spending time outdoors in the sun is often a highlight of vacation, but it’s important to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Sunburn occurs when skin is exposed to too much sun without proper protection.
To prevent sunburn, wear protective clothing like hats and long-sleeved shirts. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 before going outside and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
If you do end up with a sunburn, take steps to soothe the skin and promote healing. Apply cool compresses or take cool baths to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can also help alleviate discomfort.
In conclusion, getting sick on vacation can put a damper on your plans but there are steps you can take to prevent and treat common travel-related illnesses like traveler’s diarrhea, jet lag and sunburn. By taking proper precautions before and during your trip, you can minimize the risk of falling ill and enjoy a happy and healthy vacation experience.