You plan your trip for months. You leave for vacation full of anticipation. The last thing you expect or want is an illness.
Sure, you may be in a warmer climate, getting more rest and feeling less stressed out. All of these can boost your immunity. But, you are also being exposed to new foods and chemicals. You’re meeting new people who carry germs and bacteria from all over the world. And maybe – just maybe, you’re doing a little overindulging.
If you get sick, you’re instinct is likely to just push through. You can rest when you’re home. But there are all sorts of risks involved, including getting others sick and ruining their vacations.
If you do start to feel ill while you’re away, visit an urgent care clinic and do what you can to reduce your symptoms. Catch it early, and you might be back up and running after only a short respite. Here are the best ways to quickly get yourself better while sick on vacation,
Drink Lots of Water
When you’re away from home, you’re likely to drink a little too much alcohol. OK, maybe more than a little. And you’re also likely to drink more sugary juices, coffee, and creamy cold drinks.
What you need is more water. Especially if you feel like you might be coming down with something. A little extra water now might salvage days from your vacation.
If you start to feel ill, stop drinking alcohol straight away. And increase your water levels to help boost your energy and flush out any toxins. You should be drinking half your body weight in pounds every day. So if you weigh 120 pounds, you need at least 60 ounces of water daily.
You may also want to supplement with vitamin C and eat lots of fresh fruit. This may also boost your immunity. And it can help your body recover faster.
Rest
The last thing you want to do is spend your whole time in your hotel. But, when you’re sick, it’s better to sacrifice a day or two to rest than to lose the entire vacation. You’ll only get weaker and sicker if you push yourself.
So, as soon as your symptoms start to show, cancel your plans and get some rest. Go to bed early, get a good night’s sleep and, spend the next day taking it extremely easy. I know this isn’t what you had planned. But it can help you fight your illness before it takes over.
Get Some Fresh Air
That said, you shouldn’t spend your time cooped up in your room with the windows closed. Open the windows to let in some fresh air. Or, if you’re feeling well enough, go for a short walk outside. This will get your blood pumping and help clear your body of illness.
It isn’t about keeping yourself a hermit. It’s about giving your body lots of rest. So if you’re feeling well enough, and you’re in a sunny climate, feel free to stretch out on a reclining beach chair and get some downtime. Just remember to apply sunscreen!
Make the Most of it
Instead of getting upset about missing out, look at the positives. Part of going away is taking a break and catching up on some sleep. So, use the time well. Read some ebooks, catch up on your favorite shows online, and relax.
Medicate
It’s always a good idea to take some basic medication with you in your checked luggage (you may not be able to take them in your cabin bag). But check with your airline first. Some painkillers and decongestants can go a long way to making you feel better.
If you haven’t taken any with you, head to a pharmacy. But make sure you understand what you are buying first. If you struggle with the language, ask someone at the hotel to help or use a translation app!
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Photos courtesy of Unsplash
