Stay Healthy On Your Vacation

It has been a long school year. The family wants a vacation and so do you. Will the fun end if someone in your family gets sick or injured? Whether it is a quick road trip or a long flight, protect your health before you pack a suitcase.

• PLAN AHEAD: You know what to expect if your vacation spot is a family favorite but what if it is a new or distant destination? Ask your doctor about health issues and health care in those regions. Vaccinations or certain medications may be necessary. Research the area for medical facilities such as hospitals, urgent care centers like Patient First, and pharmacies. A little preparation can save you a major headache when traveling places you have never visited.

• PACK YOUR MEDICINE: If you or any family members take medications, be sure a supply is packed for the duration of your get-away. Do not leave your medication in a hot car. Heat can affect some medications. Pack the medicine in a carry-on bag if you fly so it does not take a separate vacation if your luggage gets lost. Have your physician’s name and contact information handy, and bring your health and dental insurance cars along – just in case.

• ON THE ROAD: Wash your hands frequently to protect against viruses and bacteria. Also, buckle-up and take frequent breaks if you travel by car. It helps keep you alert behind the wheel and gives everyone a chance to stretch their muscles.

• SUN PROTECTION: Do not forget sun safety during your vacation and throughout the year. Before going outside, protect your skin from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays. No single step will fully protect you from overexposure to UV rays. Patient First suggests these five tips to save your skin:

1. Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF, even when it is cloudy. Apply sunscreen 15 to 20 minutes before leaving home. Reapply it at least every two hours and after swimming.
2. Wide-brimmed hats help shade your neck and face but do not offer complete protection. Use sunscreen on these sensitive skin areas.
3. Wear light-weight sun-protective clothing. Long sleeves and long pants help protect skin.
4. Wear sunglasses that block UV rays.
5. Take advantage of shade whenever possible. Remember the sun’s UV rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• BASIC SAFETY: Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Do not drink and drive. Make sure that you carry any important medical history with you along with the name, address and phone number of an emergency contact.