Getting injured while traveling is one of the worst things that can happen to you. As a tourist, it could mean you’ll have to take time off work and pay expensive medical bills. And if you’re an athlete or a musician touring abroad, your injury could end your career. So it pays to know what kind of injuries are most common among travelers and how to avoid them. Here are the five most common travel injuries and some tips for preventing them.
Sprained Ankles
A sprained ankle is a fairly common injury, particularly for people who travel often. The ankle is a complex joint made up of bones, ligaments, and tendons, all of which work together to allow the foot to move in different directions. However, this joint is also susceptible to injury if it is overextended or twisted weirdly.
A sprained ankle occurs when one or more ligaments are stretched or torn. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected ankle. While most sprains will heal on their own with rest and ice, more severe injuries may require medical intervention.
People who travel frequently are at an increased risk of spraining their ankles due to the amount of walking and standing they do. Wearing comfortable shoes and taking breaks often can help prevent this type of injury. If you face such an injury, it is best to visit a doctor before the situation gets out of control.
Your doctor will ask you to get an x-ray or an MRI scan to diagnose the condition. If the doctor tells you to go for an MRI, opt for Upright Open MRI scans. The benefit of open MRI scans is that you can complete the scan in any position. Hence, you won’t have to pressure your ankle to finish the scan.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a severe condition that can occur when blood clots form in the body’s deep veins. It usually occurs in the leg. DVT is a common problem, particularly among long-haul travelers, and it can be hazardous if the clot breaks free and travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.
You can do several things to reduce your risk of developing DVT while traveling. First, try to get up and walk around every few hours to keep your blood flowing. Second, avoid sitting or standing for long periods. Third, wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes to help improve circulation. Finally, drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol to prevent dehydration.
Sunburn
When people think of injuries while traveling, they often envision cuts, scrapes, and bruises. However, one of the most common injuries sustained while on vacation is sunburn. Sunburn occurs when the skin is exposed to too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
UV radiation can cause the skin to become red and painful, and in severe cases, it can even lead to blistering and peeling. People who are fair-skinned or have a history of skin cancer are particularly at risk for sunburn, but anyone can be affected by it.
To prevent sunburn, always use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Additionally, try to stay in the shade as much as possible and wear protective clothing such as hats and long-sleeved shirts.
Food Poisoning
When you travel, you’re exposed to new and potentially dangerous bacteria that your body isn’t used to. This can lead to food poisoning, an intestinal condition caused by eating contaminated food or water.
Symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. Food poisoning can result in dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and even death in severe cases. To avoid getting sick while traveling, wash your hands often, avoid street food, and only drink bottled or boiled water.
If you get sick, be sure to drink plenty of fluids and see a doctor as soon as possible. With a little care, you can avoid getting ill and enjoy a safe and healthy trip.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a severe head injury when your body temperature rises to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 °C) or higher. It can happen to anyone but is more likely to occur in young children, the elderly, and people with chronic medical conditions. If you are traveling in an area with high temperatures, it is essential to prevent heatstroke.
Drink plenty of fluids, wear loose-fitting clothing, and take breaks in the shade. If you feel dizzy or nauseous, stop what you are doing and seek medical attention immediately. With prompt treatment, heatstroke can be effectively treated and does not typically cause long-term problems.
However, severe cases can lead to permanent organ damage or even death. By taking precautions and being aware of the signs and symptoms of heatstroke, you can keep yourself safe while enjoying the warm weather.
While no one likes to think about getting injured while traveling, it’s essential to be prepared. Knowing the most common travel injuries and how to prevent them can reduce your risk of having a vacation ruined by an unexpected injury.