WHAT NOT TO DO WHEN YOU GET SICK ON A TRIP
Most people think they will never get sick on a trip away from home. I always buy travel insurance, but I still have this crazy belief that I’ll always be perfectly fine.
I can tell you from personal experience that it is out of your control. You may sit next to someone on a plane who shares a virus, you may push though a “minor illness” which blows up in a foreign land…Let’s face it, it’s going to happen to you at some point.
If you do find yourself sick while traveling, here is a list of 10 things to AVOID to protect your health and make your recovery as smooth as possible.
1. Not calling your travel insurance company before seeking treatment
Many travel insurance companies require that you contact the provider prior to seeking treatment. Doing so allows them to guide you to an approved clinic or hospital which can significantly reduce your out of pocket expenses. Certain procedures such as MRI’s, CT scans or ultrasounds need pre-approval from insurance or they will not be covered at all. Call first to avoid your claim being denied and having to pay fully out of pocket for your emergency medical treatment.
2. Don’t push through a busy itinerary
It’s tempting to check off every sight on your itinerary or power through that full-day conference you traveled for—but if you’re not feeling well, the best thing you can do is slow down. Your body needs rest to recover, and ignoring that can prolong your illness or make it worse.
Pushing through not only affects your own health, but it also puts those around you at risk if you’re contagious. Give yourself permission to hit pause.
3. Don’t fly home on a plane full of people when you’re contagious
If you feel really ill, your best bet is to see if you can extend your stay where you are and stay put. Rest and recovery go hand and hand for a reason. There are exceptions to this of course, for example your health insurance may require you to return home for treatment. Do what feels right for you but if you can limit exposure, that is best for everyone.
4. Stay in shared accommodation without precaution
If you are staying in a hostel or shared accommodation, you may want to consider a single room or hotel so you are not accidentally infecting those around you. You don’t want to expose others to your illness.
5. Don’t eat risky or massively unfamiliar foods
When you’re feeling sick, it is not the time to dive into a country's boldest or most complex meals. Eat what your stomach allows and keep it to simpler foods. Avoid rich, spicy and unfamiliar foods and instead opt for bland, easily digestible meals like rice, toast, bananas, or broth based soups.
6. Don’t drink alcohol
Alcohol dehydrates you and slows your recovery by weakening your immune system. This isn’t what you need when you’re sick. It can also negatively interfere with some medications.
7. Not staying hydrated
You want to stay hydrated when you’re feeling under the weather. If you can, try to get electrolyte drinks from a local pharmacy. Sport electrolyte drinks also work in a pinch but they generally contain more sugar and additives that can be hard on your stomach. Broths are also a great way to stay hydrated when you’re sick.
8. Avoid rest and sleep
You need both rest and sleep to recover. I know missing out on fun and new experiences can be a challenge but sometimes what your body needs is more important than trying to do everything. Take it easy and take it easy on yourself. Your mindset plays a key role in feeling better too.
9. Not contacting those who could help
It can be scary to be sick in an unfamiliar place. Contacting people that you trust can be a good sounding board for what you should do going forward. If you feel like you should be talking to a doctor or the condition is getting worse, don’t wait; contact your doctor, visit a hospital, or call for a paramedic. Be aware the emergency number in the country you are visiting will likely be different than in your home country.
10. Not listening to your gut
Although your gut might be doing circles around itself - it usually knows what’s right. If your gut is telling you to rest, listen. If it’s telling you you need medicine, get some. If it’s telling you to leave, listen. If you listen, your body will tell you what it needs.
Smart Planning: It is a great idea to travel with a small pill case of some common medications you may need - ibuprofen, acetaminophen, allergy pills, anti nauseant's and vitamin C packs are always in my travel bag.
Do you have any stories about being sick on vacation? Share them below