The last thing you want to think about when relaxing on your summer vacation is health concerns. However, the reality is that there is always the possibility that you, or your family, might come down with an illness or ailment during your break away.
Treating Sunburn
It’s easy to become a little over-exuberant during the first few days of your holiday, and sit in the sun for way longer than you should. Sunburn is no laughing matter; it brings with it immense pain and discomfort, and if left untreated, can make your vacation a misery. When you start to realize you have over-done it, place a cold cloth on the affected area or take a cooling shower. Slather the sunburn with moisturizing cream, where possible one that contains Aloe Vera, and repeatedly apply to prevent peeling. Drink plenty of water, as sunburn can lead to dehydration, and take Ibuprofen as soon as you can, as this will help reduce swelling and redness. If the sunburn looks serious, and covers a wide area (such as the whole back), then it is important to seek the help of a doctor, especially if it is a child who is affected.
Dealing with Diarrhea
Sometimes, a nasty side-effect of going on vacation is an upset stomach. There are several causes, such as contamination, but is often attributed to the simple fact that on vacation, you eat and drink things you wouldn’t normally (or over-indulge.) You can help prevent the occurrence of diarrhea by maintaining scrupulous hand washing, eating food that is piping hot, and laying off excessive alcohol and rich food. Studies also highlight that taking Pepto-Bismol regularly during your vacation can reduce the likelihood of an upset tummy by 60%. Dehydration can easily occur when you have diarrhea, so make sure you drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids, and take oral rehydration salts. In extreme cases, always consult the advice of a doctor.
Pesky Insect Bites
If you suffer a severe reaction to insect bites, it could result in your vacation being ruined. Mosquitoes are a prime culprit, causing misery and annoyance to the people they bite. There isn’t a great deal you can do to stop insects buzzing around; however, there are some steps you can take to minimize the irritation they cause. As soon as you’ve been bitten, apply a cold cloth to the affected area, as this will reduce swelling and lessen the irritation. Apply a calming solution, such as calamine or baking soda mixed with water, and if the reaction is severe, you could also consider a hydrocortisone cream. If you are prone to being bitten by bugs, then make sure you apply insect repellent, stay away from water (mosquitos love damp areas), cover up as much skin as possible, and take antihistamines.
Pack a First Aid Kit
Wherever you go on vacation, especially if you are travelling with children, it is a good idea to carry a first aid kit. Include remedies for stomach problems, such as laxatives and rehydration medication, plus painkillers and antihistamines. Carry plasters and bandages for minor scrapes and cuts, including antiseptic wipes, with scissors, tweezers and a thermometer. Unless you are visiting the Amazon jungle, there will be shops around to purchase most necessary items, so just pack immediate essentials.
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