Rest, excursions and activities in the countryside are intertwined with holidays. Even the best organized trip, however, can be accompanied by unexpected minor discomforts, such as headache, muscle pain, minor injuries, mild allergic symptoms, heartburn or sore throat.
A properly organized travel pharmacy can help treat frequent and mild symptoms early. Its content, however, must be adapted to the age, destination, duration of the trip, any chronic diseases and the medications taken by each traveller.
1. Analgesic / antipyretic
Fatigue, dehydration, a long journey or increased physical activity can be accompanied by headache or muscle aches. Fever, on the other hand, should not be automatically attributed to heat, as it may be related to an infection or another condition that needs monitoring.
2. Antihistamine
Insect bites and seasonal allergies are frequent in summer. A suitable antihistamine can help relieve itching and other mild allergic symptoms, depending on the indication of the specific preparation.
Helpful reminder: some antihistamines cause drowsiness and can interfere with driving. If difficulty breathing, severe swelling of the face or throat, generalized hives, dizziness or a tendency to faint occur, immediate medical attention is required – an antihistamine alone is not enough to treat a severe allergic reaction.
3. Hygiene and disinfection products
Good hygiene is especially important during the holidays, when we are often in public areas, move around or do not always have direct access to soap and water.
An antiseptic hand gel in a practical travel package can be used when washing with soap and water is not available, while suitable disinfectant sprays or wipes can be used to clean surfaces in the accommodation, in the car or while traveling.
For minor abrasions or cuts, only a product that is explicitly stated to be suitable for application to the skin or for the care of small wounds should be used. In all cases, follow the instructions and precautions on the packaging of the specific product.
4. Preparation for heartburn, indigestion and reflux
Changes in meal times and quantities, spicy or fatty foods, as well as increased consumption of coffee or alcohol can cause heartburn and discomfort after eating.
5. Lozenges to relieve sore throat
Dry air conditioning, heavy use of voice, and travel conditions can irritate the throat. A sore throat, however, can also be a symptom of an infection.
Consult a doctor if the sore throat is accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing, high fever or severe weakness, as well as if it remains unimproved.
What else is useful to include in the holiday pharmacy
The medicines you take on a permanent basis, in sufficient quantity and preferably in their original packaging.
Sunscreen of appropriate protection index and insect repellent.
Thermometer.
Sterile gauze, bandages and adhesive pads for minor injuries.
A copy of the prescription or a short medical note, particularly if you are traveling abroad or receiving special treatment.
Proper storage: do not leave medicines in a parked car or in direct exposure to the sun. Follow the storage conditions indicated on the packaging of each product.
When is immediate medical help needed?
Seek immediate medical attention in case of difficulty breathing, severe allergic reaction, confusion or fainting after exposure to high temperature, severe or persistent pain, high fever, repeated vomiting, severe injury or rapid worsening of symptoms.
With a little preparation, the holiday pharmacy can offer practical help with the most frequent minor discomforts. However, it does not replace the individualized advice of a doctor or pharmacist or the timely medical evaluation when there are alarming symptoms.
ygeiamou.gr
Sunscreen of appropriate protection index and insect repellent.
Thermometer.
Sterile gauze, bandages and adhesive pads for minor injuries.
A copy of the prescription or a short medical note, particularly if you are traveling abroad or receiving special treatment.
Proper storage: do not leave medicines in a parked car or in direct exposure to the sun. Follow the storage conditions indicated on the packaging of each product.
When is immediate medical help needed?
Seek immediate medical attention in case of difficulty breathing, severe allergic reaction, confusion or fainting after exposure to high temperature, severe or persistent pain, high fever, repeated vomiting, severe injury or rapid worsening of symptoms.
With a little preparation, the holiday pharmacy can offer practical help with the most frequent minor discomforts. However, it does not replace the individualized advice of a doctor or pharmacist or the timely medical evaluation when there are alarming symptoms.
ygeiamou.gr
