Summer is here and vacation trips abound; this is Part One of a series of health related travel tips. Bring the Basics regarding first aid supplies. This is especially important if you’re traveling to a rural area or out of the United States, but good practice for any trip. Prepare and carry a small pack of OTC (over the counter) medicines to take on your trip so you don't have to scramble finding a pharmacy or grocery store late at night in a new location.
Oral Medications: Read and follow all directions on the package labels regarding dosing and warnings on all medications.
Topical Supplies:
Last but not least, seek care from a Licensed Physician or go to an Emergency Room if you have any severe or urgent symptoms.
Oral Medications: Read and follow all directions on the package labels regarding dosing and warnings on all medications.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) for pain or fever.
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for allergy symptoms (or your favorite antihistamine).
- Loperamide (Imodium) for diarrhea.
- Meclizine (Dramamine) for motion sickness. If you are flying, make sure you carry medicines in their original containers or foil packs (which are flat and easy for packing).
Topical Supplies:
- Band-Aids (2 each in various sizes).
- Antibiotic cream.
- Corn & Callous pads. These come in small flat packages that are easy to pack and helpful if you anticipate a lot of walking.
Last but not least, seek care from a Licensed Physician or go to an Emergency Room if you have any severe or urgent symptoms.