Common Health Risks for Travellers and How to Prevent Them

Going on holiday is supposed to be fun and relaxing. However, there are times when a health problem may occur, which could affect the travel experience. Knowing the common health risks for travellers and how to manage them is an excellent step in preparing and preventing the situation from worsening. If taken care of appropriately and immediately, it may not ruin the entire trip. 

Respiratory problems

Respiratory infections like colds, fever, coughs, and runny noses are common, especially if there’s a significant change in the weather from home to that of your destination. Not having enough rest due to travel could also weaken your immune system, thus making you prone to sickness. Over-the-counter medicines are readily available to treat these common ailments. Get plenty of rest and keep yourself hydrated for quicker recovery. Strengthen your system before even going on a trip by loading up on vitamin C, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet. 

Sexually transmitted disease

Some travellers engage in casual sex on their trips. However, it puts you at risk of sexually transmitted diseases or STDs. The safest way not to get them is abstinence from sex. But if you can’t stop yourself from doing it, use a high-quality condom to prevent STDs and unwanted pregnancy. Note that oral contraception will only prevent pregnancy, not STDs, so use the proper protection. 

Diarrhoea

It’s one of the most common health problems for travellers, and the typical culprits are unsanitary foods and drinks. So, be extra careful with what you consume, and ensure that it’s thoroughly cooked and clean. Don’t drink tap water, and avoid eating in untidy places. Moreover, be cautious of the ingredients as they may upset your stomach, especially since you are not used to them. Examples are super spicy foods that could cause diarrhoea. Before your trip, pack medicines you can take to treat the problem. Anytime Doctor offers a convenient way to get the medications you need, including those for treating diarrhoea. There’s no need to go to the doctor or local pharmacy, as you can get the consultation, prescription, and ordering of the medicines online. 

Jet lag

It’s a disorder that’s caused by travelling to another time zone. The symptoms include sleeping difficulties, fatigue, headache, and dizziness. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for jetlag, but there are ways to manage its symptoms. For instance, medicines for insomnia could help with sleep trouble. Also, if it’s still daytime when you arrive at your destination, staying awake by walking and drinking caffeine will help you adjust quickly to the new time zone, thus recovering from the jet lag symptoms faster. 

Muscle pains

An uncomfortable position in a plane, train, and car could cause muscle soreness. Walking for an extended period while carrying your things, and doing various activities like hiking and swimming, could also add to the muscle pains. On the other hand, a nice warm bath could relax the muscles after a long tiring day. Get a good night’s rest, and you will be ready for your next adventure. Ibuprofen is also a popular medicine to relieve muscle aches. They are available everywhere, so you should be able to purchase them easily. But to be sure, pack them in your first aid travel kit with the other medicines.  

Mosquito bites

Mosquito bites could cause diseases like dengue, malaria, and yellow fever. Prevention is the key to avoiding these diseases. Wear protection like long pants and long-sleeved shirts to prevent mosquito bites. You may also use mosquito repellents that you can spray on your clothes and room. Some repellents are safe to apply on the skin. If you sleep with open windows or outdoors, use a mosquito net for extra protection.  

Skin infections

You may get cuts or wounds on your travels, especially if you do plenty of outdoor activities like mountain climbing and trekking. Without proper care, they could get infected, which could worsen the problem. So, take care of the wounds immediately by thoroughly cleaning them with soap and water. Then, use topical antibiotics, and cover with a clean dressing, which you must change at least twice a day. 

Prevent these health problems from ruining your trip by better caring for yourself and knowing what to do if you experience them. If it worsens, get immediate medical assistance from the local healthcare providers.