Parkland experts offer tips for keeping vacation healthy, safe

Vacations offer time to de-stress and recharge, but if you happen to forget some important medical items while you’re on your road trip or at the beach, things could take an unfortunate turn.

“Vacations are great for getting away from it all to enjoy some quality time with family and friends. But it’s important to plan ahead to avoid taking unnecessary risks with your family’s health and safety,” said Suzette Baez, MD, a pediatrician with Parkland Health & Hospital System’s Vickery Health Center. “There are some basic items that should be on your vacation checklist, especially if you are traveling with children. Make sure you are prepared for whatever may come up during your time away from home.”

One of the first things on your list is to evaluate your health and the health of those traveling with you. Consider visiting a doctor if you or anyone in your family recently had stomach problems such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, fever, or an eye or head injury. You should also consult your doctor before leaving home if you have a runny nose, cough, earache or any other signs of illness.

To make sure the family vacation is both safe and fun, it’s important to plan ahead for any potential medical problems. For example, bring enough prescription medication to last the entire trip, plus a little extra in case there are delays. Keep the prescriptions in the original containers in case you are questioned by airport security. Bring copies of the prescriptions, not only for security personnel, but also in case your medicines are lost. And, keep you medications in your carry-on luggage.

You should also bring along health insurance cards in case of emergencies.

“One of the most important things to do on vacation, especially in summer, is to stay hydrated,” Dr. Baez said. “Bring plenty of water bottles along with you if you can. Otherwise make sure to stock up on bottled water when you get to your destination. Parents should watch their children for any signs of possible dehydration such as dry, sticky mouth, fatigue, thirst, headache or dizziness.”

Other items to pack in your summer vacation survival kit include:

• Cell phone and charger

• Antibiotic cream

• Band-Aids and bandages

• Crushable ice pack for bruises

• Benadryl

• Sun block

• Sunglasses

• Insect repellent

• Ibuprofen or acetaminophen

If anyone in the family has a severe allergy and epinephrine has been prescribed, make sure you bring their epinephrine auto-injector.

And you should also be aware of the difference between urgent and emergency care. Urgent conditions include severe sprains, broken bones, high fever and nausea. Emergency conditions include shortness of breath, excessive bleeding, severe organ or body pain, and early or active labor.

Once you get to your destination, take some steps to keep your family safe, advised Shelli Stephens-Stidham, director of the Injury Prevention Center of Greater Dallas, located at Parkland.

“Even though vacations are supposed to be fun and relaxing, it’s still important to practice safety measures at all times,” Stephens-Stidham said. “For example, if you’re on a road trip, get your car checked out ahead of time. Make sure that everyone is buckled up and always use appropriate car seats for children less than 8 years of age.”

Safety belts apply even when you’re riding in a taxi, she noted.

If swimming will be a part of the vacation, avoid swimming alone and always use life jackets while boating. When you get to your hotel, try to stay below the sixth floor, making it easier to be rescued in case of fire.

“Remember that summer, especially in Texas, means sun. Practice sun safety by using sunscreens and protective clothing,” Stephens-Stidham said. “And to avoid injuries, don’t drink alcohol before or during outdoor activities.”

If your vacation takes you outside the country be sure you have the proper vaccinations and documents. If any vaccinations are required or advised, get them in plenty of time prior to your departure. The CDC’s TravWell app can help you with plan a safe and healthy international vacation, Stephen-Stidham said. The app can help you customize a health vacation list and can also help store documents and prescription records.

For more information about services available at Parkland, visit www.parklandhospital.com