Table of Contents
Staying Healthy While Traveling: Tips from Dr. Sylvia Morris
Introduction
You’ve been eagerly waiting for your vacation for months, and now it’s finally here. But before you embark on your adventure, it’s important to take steps to stay healthy while traveling. Dr. Sylvia Morris, an internist at Kaiser Permanente of Georgia, shares some simple tips to ensure your well-being during your trip.
Carry Your Medication Safely
One of the first things Dr. Morris recommends is to pack your prescription medication in your carry-on bag or purse. This way, even if your checked luggage gets lost, you’ll have your essential medications with you. Additionally, she suggests taking a photo of the paperwork that comes with your prescription or saving the information in your smartphone. This will come in handy if you need to get an emergency refill while on vacation.
Create an Over-the-Counter Travel Kit
Dr. Morris suggests visiting a drugstore before your trip to put together an over-the-counter travel kit. This kit should include items that can help you with common travel issues like an upset stomach or sleep problems. Consider including antacids, medication for heartburn, diarrhea relief, and a sleep aid for adjusting to different time zones. If you’re traveling with children, don’t forget to pack children’s medication for fever as well.
Stay Hydrated and Avoid Alcohol on Flights
When you’re on a flight, it’s important to prioritize hydration. According to Dr. Morris, alcohol can dehydrate you, so it’s best to avoid it during your flight. Dehydration can contribute to crankiness and sleep deprivation, so make sure to drink plenty of water instead.
Adjust to the Local Time Zone
If you’re traveling to a destination with a different time zone, Dr. Morris recommends adjusting to the local time as soon as possible. Instead of checking in to your accommodation and going to sleep immediately, try to stay awake until nightfall. This will help your body adapt to the new time zone more easily, and you’ll have a better chance of avoiding jet lag.
Ensure Safe Drinking Water and Practice Food Safety
Before you consume any water at your destination, Dr. Morris advises checking whether it’s safe to drink. If it’s not, stick to bottled water for all purposes, including brushing your teeth. Additionally, when exploring the local cuisine, it’s crucial to follow food safety guidelines. Just like at a cookout or barbecue, ensure that hot foods are served hot and cold foods are kept cold to prevent any foodborne illnesses.
Conclusion
Taking a vacation should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, and by following these tips from Dr. Sylvia Morris, you can ensure that you stay healthy throughout your trip. Remember to pack your medication safely, create an over-the-counter travel kit, stay hydrated, adjust to the local time zone, and practice food safety. By taking these precautions, you can make the most of your vacation and create lasting memories. For more health-related information and tips, visit health-news-today.com.