by Dr. Hotosa Ebrahimzadeh

    Wrapping and tissue paper has thankfully been pushed back into closet corners, holiday’s decorations taken down and put away, winter colds and flues finally conquered, and now many are asking themselves what can be next. If you are seeking relief from any of the undue holiday stress, like many of us, you may be plotting your next escape. 

     With the onset of the New Year, many are looking at vacation time with a wanting eye, planning and plotting where and when the next break will arrive. What must be added to the planning of everyone’s vacation is health planning. Nothing ruins a vacation more quickly than the onset of some ailment caused by the environment and/or situation that with some simple precautions could have been avoided. 

     The Doctor’s Advice – Precaution

     In addition to sandals and sun tan lotion, every traveler should create a personal medicine pack that contains the necessary prescription and over-the-counter medications they may require. Making sure you have filled any necessary prescriptions prior to travel is vital. Many countries you visit will not have the means to provide you with medicine you may need as quickly as you need it. Also, taking over the counter medication that you often or sometimes use is very important. The pack could contain some Aspirin, Advil, Tylenol, Pepto Bismol, band aids (differing sizes), disinfectant, topical antibiotics, as well as topical lidocaine (for those painful sunburns!). 

     Before you even arrive at your destination, there are a variety of precautions that can protect you from contracting illness. Taking vitamin C and staying well hydrated prior to plane rides can be a wonderful way to keep the immune system strong to fight all the strange bacteria and viruses passing through the airplane air filters. If you have a breathing condition of any kind, such as asthma, make sure to talk to your doctor about preventative medication that can reduce the frequency and severity of your attacks while you are both on your way to your vacation and at the location. 

     There is a simple way to find out the potential diseases that the region you are visiting may be susceptible to, by logging on to www.cdc.gov (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). The left hand side tool bar has an option called “Traveler’s Health” which will ask you for your destination, and then provide you with not only a list of health warnings for that region, but also the necessary immunizations and exams that each area may require before allowing you to obtain a visa or entrance to that country. Many of these immunizations are a series of shots or medication that often need to be started months in advance so plan ahead. 

     Finding out where you want to go is only a part of the travel challenge; finding out what is needed in terms of your health is the next. Once you have successfully planned for your trip, you will find being healthy during your trip is worth all the research and preparation. If unfortunately you find yourself ill during your vacation, seeking medical attention is of immediate concern. Many of the larger hotels in the region you are visiting will be knowledgeable as to what clinic or hospital facilities are open to travelers. Your health insurance may cover expenses that are accrued abroad, but if not, there are lists of travel health insurances that can be purchased that will assist in medical costs obtained during your travels. 

     If travel is the next respite you seek, make it a relaxing and rewarding one by preparing yourself and your body with the necessary information and precautions. That way you will have everything you need to be make sure you stay healthy enough to enjoy the sights and sounds of your vacation.

For further information you may contact: Dr. Ebrahimzadeh at Ocean Breeze Medical Group

(949) 369-6993