4 Tips to Help You Deal With Getting Sick While Traveling

According to research, you are 100 times more likely to get sick on an airplane than in your normal life. Airplanes aren't the only thing about travel that increases your risk of getting sick while traveling. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your chance of getting sick and deal with any illnesses that crop up.

1. Digitize Your Medical Records

If you need to seek medical care while traveling, easy access to your medical records can make the process go more smoothly. Carrying around a bunch of paper records isn't ideal. Instead, digitize your records. Then, by using a PDF extractor, you can get that content and combine them all into one PDF file. Store the file in the cloud so that you can access it from anywhere.

2. Pack for Just in Case

Pack any prescription medications you take, a traveler's diarrhea antibiotic, and, if you are traveling overseas, medicines that can prevent malaria. Pack any medical equipment you need, such as glasses and contacts, diabetes testing supplies, your medical alert bracelet, EpiPens, and inhalers.

Over-the-counter medications to bring may include antacid, motion sickness medication, decongestant, cough drops, pain delivers, sleep aids, antihistamines, and a mild laxative. Supplies that may help prevent injury or illness include hand sanitizer, insect repellent, sunglasses, sunscreen, condoms, water purification tablets, and earplugs. It may also be a good idea to bring a first-aid kit.

Make adjustments based on how you are traveling and where you are going. If you are traveling by plane, you may not be able to pack everything you might need, so make plans to acquire it at your destination. If you are traveling by car or RV, you can stock up on more supplies.

3. Stay Healthy While Traveling

If you are traveling abroad to a country where you don't speak the language, consider carrying cards that explain any food allergies, dietary restrictions, or medical conditions you have printed in both English and the native language of the country you are traveling to. Communicate your desire to eat healthily or get in some exercise to your traveling companions. It's okay for different members of your party to take a different approach to travel.

Plan time into your schedule for exercise. Practice healthy habits, such as wearing sunscreen, getting enough sleep, and drinking plenty of water.

4. Have a Plan for If You Get Sick

Before you leave your house, find out if your health insurance covers you while traveling. You may want to consider purchasing travel insurance. Make sure you pack your health insurance card. Record a name, address, and telephone number for an emergency contact and keep it with you.

If you get sick while traveling outside the U.S., contact the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to get a list of healthcare providers. Know your blood type. Get plenty of rest and consume bland foods until you are feeling better. Take a moderate amount of over-the-counter medication as soon as you experience symptoms.

If your symptoms are severe, consider a walk-in clinic. However, if you have an emergency, such as a broken bone or chest pain, go to an emergency room. You may be able to schedule a telehealth appointment with your regular doctor.

Dealing with an illness while traveling isn't easy. However, the better prepared you are, the easier your recovery will be.