The Ultimate Trip Guide; Tips On How To Have A Healthy And Safe Vacation

Heat-Related Illnesses

With long periods of time exposed to the sun, the heat is another element that can dramatically affect an individual’s health, which may result in a trip to the hospital, and possibly ruin your vacation. Heat-related illnesses include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat fainting, heat edema (the swelling of the hands, feet, and ankles), heat cramps (muscle cramps), and heat rash. Heat illnesses can affect an individual quickly and are mainly caused by overexposure or overexertion to the sun and heat. Symptoms of heat illness include dizziness or fainting, nausea and vomiting, headache, rapid breathing and heart rate, extreme thirst and dry mouth, and a decrease in urination with unusually dark urine. If you experience any of these symptoms while exposed to hot weather, immediately seek shelter (preferably cool) and drink plenty of liquids, particularly water.

Also, be aware of any medication you may be taking, as some medications can affect a person’s sensitivity to heat or sunlight, and can interfere with the body’s cooling functions, water,and salt retention, or make the skin more sensitive to UV rays. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the medications you are taking and follow their recommendations on how to prevent sun and heat-related conditions when traveling.

Continue reading to find out some quick tips that will allow you to have the best vacation ever!