April 7, 2023

6 Common Conditions Summer Travelers Should Watch Out For

Traveling is a great way to broaden your perspective, acquire new experiences, and get to know people better. There are plenty of things you can discover about yourself and the world around you by stepping out of your comfort zone, and summer is a great time to do just that. However, it’s worth noting that traveling, especially during the hot season, comes with its own set of risks and challenges. In particular, there are diseases and health conditions that are especially prevalent when the temperature is high.


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To ensure that you will be able to enjoy your summer trip in the best of health, you need to be prepared for these possible concerns. This way, you can avoid them or keep them from worsening. Here are some of the health issues you should watch out for when on a summer holiday:

Hyperthermia
The Philippines is a tropical country, so it goes without saying that the heat and humidity here are no laughing matter. When traveling in summer, it’s only prudent to take precautions against the conditions that can be caused by extreme temperatures and high humidity. Hyperthermia or having a very high body temperature is one such condition that you should be aware of, especially if you’re planning on completing strenuous activities.

To avoid hyperthermia, wear appropriate clothing in hot weather and stay in well-ventilated or air-conditioned areas when the heat of the sun is at its peak. It’s also advisable to drink sports drinks or broth to replenish lost electrolytes. If you need to be out and about when it’s hot, let your body acclimatize to the weather first and watch out for the possible signs of heat-related illnesses. 


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Gout Flare-Ups
Dehydration is a real concern when you’re traveling during summer. Unfortunately, not having enough water can increase uric acid levels in the body and trigger an episode of gout in the process. Now, it can be difficult to go sightseeing when you’re in pain from gout. The best way to prevent this condition from ruining your summer trip is to avoid situations that can trigger a flare-up. It’s also best to take precautions and pack the appropriate medication to help alleviate symptoms. 

Stomach Illness
Filipinos love to eat during summer holidays, no question about it. After all, the season is when plenty of festivities take place. Before you start planning your meals on the road, however, you need to prepare for the possibility of suffering from a stomach illness.

It’s not impossible to encounter food items that do not agree with your guts while on a holiday. After all, you’re visiting new places with unfamiliar food. At the same time, the heat can hasten food spoilage and make you more likely to get food poisoning. If you’re worried about these conditions, make sure you have the right medicines and supplies wherever you go. It’s also worth the effort to double-check your food before eating it to assess its condition and level of freshness. 


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Skin Conditions
The high temperature can also trigger skin problems such as dry skin, acne breakouts, folliculitis, and prickly heat. If you’re prone to these conditions while on the road, it’s best to come prepared. This way, you can immediately address the discomfort caused or aggravated by the heat. Another skin condition you should be aware of during the summer season is sunburn. This is especially true if you’re going to the beach, trekking, or engaging in other outdoor activities. Wear sunscreen and reapply as needed; it’s also best to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. 

Asthma 
The heat and humidity of the summer season in the tropics can also lead to more frequent asthma attacks. If your condition is triggered or exacerbated by the heat, prepare to deal with it while on the road. Better yet, be more vigilant in terms of avoiding asthma flare-ups while traveling. If the weather is expected to be quite hot, opt for indoor activities instead of heading out. It’s also important to watch out for dust, pollution, pollen, and other substances that can trigger an episode while you’re out and about. 


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Mosquito-borne Diseases
Diseases borne by mosquitoes such as dengue fever, malaria, and Zika virus can be life-threatening. Unfortunately, mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid weather, which means that they can be a concern during summer. Always make an effort to protect yourself against insect bites, particularly mosquitoes, no matter where you go. Use insect repellent, for instance, or dress up in such a way that minimizes skin exposure. If you’re staying in one place for a while, do your share in controlling the mosquito population in the area as well. 

Being aware of the possible health conditions that you might encounter on your summer travels in the Philippines is half the battle. On top of observing standard hygiene practices on your holiday, take special precautions against conditions that can be caused or exacerbated by the heat, humidity, or insect bites. This way, you’re less likely to worry about common health issues on your journey. 



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