We are in the dead of winter and, thankfully, the ground hog
has forecasted an early spring. In the
meantime, how do we travel in the winter weather with our health intact? Here
are a few winter travel health tips.
Before you leave home
Going away is no reason to not take your medications, without
which you could potentially end-up in a hospital far from home. Invest in a daily-labeled pillbox for
medications. Or take prescription
bottles in a carry-on, in case your luggage gets lost. Talk to your doctor about insulin that does
not require refrigeration. Oftentimes, needle
boxes are present in airport bathrooms for proper disposal. Carry contact information for both your pharmacy
and physician. If you will be away for
an extended period, make certain you have enough medications. Your bathroom medicine cabinet will not be
available, so pack remedies for heartburn, diarrhea, sleep, headache, etc. Whatever ails you most often.
On your way
Who doesn’t get cranky when they’re hungry? Ward off drops in sugar level and resulting changes
in attitude. The brain requires a steady,
constant supply of glucose (sugar) to preform optimally. Reach for nuts, popcorn, and apples when
travelling for quick healthy snacks. Be
prepared for interruption of normal meal times and limited food choices; pack
snacks for the plane, train, and bus.
Cold and flu season is peaking now. Wash hands or use hand sanitizer with lightly
soiled hands. Wipe doorknobs, car
handles, and light switches with anti-bacterial cloths or alcohol pads. Cough into your elbow, not hand. Don’t travel if you have the flu. No one wants your bugs!
Remember the crying babies on the plane? It’s due to the increase in pressure in their
ears. If you already have a cold and
must fly, your ears/nose/sinuses can be plugged. When you feel pressure - swallow
or chew gum. Talk to your doctor or
pharmacists for over-the-counter remedies for decongestants prior to
flying. Airplanes are dry environments,
bring hydrating eye drops, spray mist, and avoid alcohol drinking, which can
cause dehydration.
When you arrive
Try to acclimate to a new time zone as quickly as possible. Treat the new time zone, just like your home
time zone. If you eat at noon at home,
eat lunch at noon in the new time zone. Stay
awake if it’s daytime when your reach your new destination. Resist the temptation, however great, to lie
down for just a little nap -- you’ll
delay adjusting to the new time zone and may set yourself up for many sleepless
nights.
If you’re going to the mountains, remember there is less available
oxygen at high altitudes resulting in shortness of breath. Give your body time to acclimate to the new
environment. Gloves become critically
important to protect from frostbite. Dress in layers to protect yourself from cold.
Don’t forget to protect your feet from cold and water by closely examining
shoes for worn-out soles and wear thick socks. Ears, noses, and cheeks require earmuffs,
scarves, and hats. Sun is especially
reflective against the snow; keep sunblock and lip balm close at-hand to
protect skin and lips from sun damage.
Travel can be easy and fun with just a few steps to prepare
for a healthy adventure and safe return home.
Be well.
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