Practical advice for traveling with medications and sunscreens
As the summer travel season approaches, it's essential to prioritise sun protection to ensure a healthy and enjoyable holiday. AOK NordWest, a leading health insurance provider, has shared its recommendations for a well-stocked travel pharmacy, specifically for sun destinations.
The foundation of sun protection begins with avoiding midday sun, wearing light-tight clothing, and consistently applying sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF 30 or higher). Aloe vera gel or after-sun lotion can provide relief from sunburns, while lip balm with UV protection is crucial for protecting delicate lips.
Physical sun protection is equally important, and a hat and sunglasses are indispensable items. Oral rehydration salts or electrolyte solutions are useful for preventing dehydration, especially during prolonged sun exposure.
Basic first aid supplies, such as plasters, antiseptic cream, and wound disinfectant, are essential for treating minor injuries. Medications for common travel ailments, including painkillers, antihistamines, and anti-diarrheal tablets, should also be packed.
Insect repellent and after-bite treatment are vital for protecting against bites and stings, while eye drops for irritation from sun or wind exposure can provide comfort and relief.
For those travelling to distant countries, it's recommended to research recommended vaccinations and carry appropriate medications for motion sickness, as needed.
It's essential to remember that a consultation in a pharmacy can help find the right sunscreen product based on individual skin type. The choice of sunscreen should not be based on the brand but on the skin's inherent protection time, which varies depending on skin type and is multiplied by the sun protection factor of the sunscreen. To be safe, only two-thirds of this time should be spent in the sun.
Frequently reapplying sunscreen, especially after swimming or heavy sweating, is crucial. However, it's important to note that reapplying sunscreen does not extend the maximum sun exposure time.
The Chamber of Physicians Westphalia-Lippe and the Chamber of Pharmacists Westphalia-Lippe have issued a joint media release emphasising the importance of sun protection. They warn about the consequences of insufficient UV protection, emphasising that a sunburn is more than just a cosmetic annoyance. It can lead to acute inflammation, skin aging, and even skin cancer.
For chronically ill travelers, thorough travel preparation is especially important. A private travel health insurance is recommended, especially for those travelling to distant countries. On long-distance trips, traveler's diarrhea medication, disinfectants, and possibly malaria medication are useful.
In conclusion, a well-stocked travel pharmacy is essential for a relaxing holiday. By following these recommendations, travelers can protect themselves from common sun-related health issues and enjoy their time away safely and healthily. For detailed and personalised advice, consulting AOK NordWest’s official travel health recommendations or a healthcare professional is advised.
- In addition to sunscreen, aloe vera gel or after-sun lotion is useful for providing relief from sunburns, while lip balm with UV protection is crucial for protecting delicate lips.
- Besides physical sun protection like hats and sunglasses, it's advisable to research recommended vaccinations and carry appropriate medications for motion sickness when traveling to distant countries.
- For chronically ill travelers, it's essential to consider a private travel health insurance, especially for long-distance trips, and pack traveler's diarrhea medication, disinfectants, and possibly malaria medication.
