Your health never takes a vacation \u2013 even when you do. Planning for your health needs before embarking on a summer trip can reduce your risk of health emergencies and prepare you if one arises.<\/p>\n
\u201cTravel should be restorative and reduce stress,\u201d said Juline Moussa, a health coach at Capital Blue Cross<\/strong>. \u201cYou can get the most out of your trip by prioritizing movement through walking, spending time in nature, and enjoying meaningful time with loved ones.\u201d<\/p>\n Here are common summer health risks<\/a> and how to avoid them.<\/p>\n Dehydration<\/strong><\/p>\n On hot days, if your body loses more water than it takes in, it can cause dehydration. The risks of dehydration<\/a> include heat injury, seizures, kidney failure, or even death.<\/p>\n While individual needs for water consumption may vary, Juline recommends as a general guideline to drink half your body weight in ounces if you spend time outside. For example, a person who weighs 150 pounds could drink 75 ounces of water per day to minimize your risk of dehydration.<\/p>\n \u201cStaying hydrated supports energy, digestion, and focus, especially when you’re out of your normal routine,\u201d Juline said. \u201cYou can either add lemon to your water or pack electrolyte packets to help you to stay hydrated and energized.\u201d<\/p>\n Sunburn<\/strong><\/p>\n Unprotected sun exposure can damage your skin and raise your risk of skin cancer. Fortunately, there are several ways to protect yourself from the sun<\/a> if you plan ahead.<\/p>\n Insect bites<\/strong><\/p>\n While many bug bites pose little to no risk, some can spread diseases like Lyme disease, Zika virus, and dengue. Bites from mosquitos can become infected or trigger an allergic reaction.<\/p>\n Insect repellent that contains 20%-30% DEET on exposed skin and clothing<\/a> can protect against mosquitoes, ticks and other bugs. Loose-fitting, long-sleeve shirts or pants treated with a repellent called permethrin<\/a> serves as another common form of protection.<\/p>\n Nutrition slip-ups<\/strong><\/p>\n For people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions, eating on vacation can pose some challenges. Packing nutrient-dense snacks like mixed nuts, protein bars, or easily portable fruit can help to curb hunger and keep blood sugar stable between meals.<\/p>\n \u201cStick to a balanced approach, focusing on nourishing foods most of the time (about 60-80%) while allowing flexibility when traveling,\u201d Juline said. \u201cTry to fill half your plate with veggies and be mindful of portions. If you manage a chronic condition, plan ahead with low-sodium or low-glycemic options when possible.\u201d<\/p>\n If you or someone in your travel group experiences a health emergency, seek medical care immediately. Knowing when to choose an urgent care center or an ER<\/a> can save you time and money.<\/p>\n Minor bone fractures, skin conditions, infections, and allergic reactions can be handled by an urgent care center for less money and shorter wait times than an ER, which typically treats more serious issues such as chest pain, compound fractures, or head injuries.<\/p>\n For important but less urgent health concerns, another option is virtual care.<\/p>\n With\u00a0VirtualCare<\/a> from Capital Blue Cross, you can see a doctor from your phone, tablet, or computer for minor illnesses or general medical concerns. VirtualCare visits can cost less than a trip to an urgent care or emergency room.<\/p>\n For more health and wellness news, <\/em>visit Capital Journal<\/em><\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Information provided to TVL by: Travel tips: Staying healthy on your summer vacation Your health never takes a vacation \u2013 even when you do. Planning for your health needs before embarking on a summer trip … Continue reading Travel tips: Staying healthy on your summer vacation<\/span> Health travel checklist<\/h2>\n
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Top summer health risks<\/h2>\n
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Finding medical care on vacation<\/h2>\n
\nJEFF WIRICK<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"