Health Considerations When Travelling
Travelling during the holidays can be exciting, and it can also take a toll on your health. Read on to learn more about health considerations to take when travelling.
Know Your Health Status
If you plan to travel outside the province or country to unwind these holidays, check in with your healthcare provider to understand your current health status. This will also determine if you require specific immunisations. Moreover, it’s an effective way to stay updated on potential health concerns that are usually spread through:
- Contaminated food and water.
- Blood or bodily fluids.
- Flea or insect bites.
- Coughing and sneezing.
Be Aware of Potential Illnesses
Being on holiday requires proper planning for the unexpected. Health risks that can lead to life-threatening consequences are still a possibility for you and your loved ones. You should be aware when a headache might require immediate emergency care.
These are common warning signs that you shouldn’t ignore:
- Severe abdominal pains accompanied by bowel issues.
- Unexplainable appetite changes.
- Extreme fatigue.
- Sudden shortness of breath.
- Persistent nausea and vomiting.
- An unusual rash.
- Body aches and a fever.
Prevent Injuries
Road accidents are at an all-time high around this time of year. It’s important to remain cautious when on the road to your holiday destination to reduce the risk of reckless driving and being distracted. These common human errors can lead to devastating consequences that affect your quality of life.
Other circumstances that can cause injuries and fatalities include drownings, falls and accidental poisoning. Affinity Health remains committed to ensuring you have peace of mind if a medical emergency occurs while you are on vacation locally. You can access a vast network of healthcare providers nationwide.
Stay Hydrated
Placing your health as a priority while on holiday can be a challenge. However, maintaining your physical well-being is a great way to enjoy being away from everyday stressors while you unwind. Staying hydrated can also minimise your chances of falling ill, which can ruin your vacation.
Here are a few practical tips to ensure you drink more water to boost your immune system and stay refreshed while on vacation:
- Start your day with water to enhance your mental performance before the day begins.
- Balance your alcohol and caffeine consumption with more water.
- Monitor your urine colour to determine when you start to feel dehydrated. Always aim for pale yellow as an indicator of adequate hydration levels.
- Snack on hydrating foods.
- Keep a water bottle close by and pay attention to your thirst.
Stay Physically Active
It might be challenging to balance your healthy habits and everything else that happens while you are on vacation with your loved ones. However, maintaining your physical health with fun activities can help boost energy levels, mood and sleep quality. Here are easy tips to ensure you stay active these holidays:
- If you are on vacation, check out nearby and safe running or walking trails.
- Download a free exercise app with simple routines to get your heart pumping.
- Play with your loved ones and include games that make you run and sweat.
- Schedule activities such as hiking during family outings.
- Wear comfortable shoes to move whenever there’s an opportunity.
Reduce Stress
Did you know that taking a break by travelling to a new place can benefit your health? If you have had a stressful year, vacationing can allow for a much-needed reset to improve your mental health. This can ensure you relieve the tension from being under pressure from your work and personal life.
Reducing stress is important if you plan to travel during these holidays. You can follow these simple steps to come back refreshed and rested:
- Go sightseeing to increase your physical activity levels.
- Avoid overindulging by maintaining a balanced diet.
- Take time off from screen time.
- Schedule time for self-care.
- Read a book or journal your thoughts.
- Spend time with your loved ones.
The holiday season can get hectic, and stress levels could impact your health, especially if you are planning to travel to see family and friends. You should use your Affinity Health plan to access the nationwide network of doctors. Knowing that your health remains our priority can ensure you have a comfortable holiday season.
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