Common Ailments in Travellers
There are many common ailments that afflict travellers during their time abroad, but a lot of these can be managed easily to make the journey more comfortable.
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Ear infections
Bacteria, fungi, or viruses in the ear canal or the Eustachian tube, which connects the ear to the throat, can cause an infection. Symptoms may include earache, mild deafness, ear discharge, headache and fever. Depending on the type of ear infection, treatment options can include antibiotics, antiviral drugs, painkillers and surgery.
Nasal congestion
Sinus pain relief tablets and nasal sprays may be useful in clearing the nasal passages, particularly if you have a cold and are taking a flight. Use saline or decongestant nasal sprays 30 minutes before take-off or landing, and up to three to four times a day. Note: Not to be taken if you have raised blood pressure or heart disease.
Respiratory infections
Respiratory tract infections are a common health issue for international travellers; they affect one in four people during a four-week stay. You should consider medications to relieve symptoms, including decongestants, antihistamines, and antibiotics, for your medical kit.
Skin infections
Skin problems, including rashes, insect bite reactions, and bacterial infections, are common among returned travellers. Often, these problems are the result of an existing condition flaring up, perhaps because the usual treatment regime has been interrupted. If you have a skin condition, see your medical practitioner for appropriate treatment.
Sore throat
Sore throats can be common when travelling long distances. Keep a supply of lozenges available and suck them as required for a sore throat.
Traveller’s diarrhoea
Traveller's diarrhoea is typically caused by contaminated food and water and can spoil your holiday or business trip. There are three types of traveller’s diarrhoea: common traveller’s diarrhoea, giardia and dysentery. Most travellers get better simply by maintaining hydration. If symptoms are persistent, an appropriate antibiotic will usually eliminate the underlying cause.
For more information, see Traveller’s Diarrhoea.
Nose bleeds
Hold the affected nostril/s closed. If available, place a cold pack on the bridge of the nose. In most cases the bleeding will stop within 15 minutes. If bleeding is heavy or persistent seek medical advice.
Bleeding wounds
Wear disposable gloves to minimise contact with blood. Apply firm pressure to the bleeding wound with a sterile pad for at least three minutes. Do not use a tourniquet.
If a foreign object is embedded in the wound, apply pressure around the site or on the side of the wound closest to the heart. Never remove large foreign objects in a wound as this may make the bleeding worse. Maintain pressure until the bleeding stops.
If possible, raise the bleeding area above the level of the heart. Keep the injured person warm and lying down. Take them to the nearest medical facility, or call for help. Do not leave them alone.
Strains and Sprains
For the first 48 hours, the RICE regime can help to speed up healing. This regime involves:
Rest: Do not overwork the affected area while it is healing. Return to normal activities gradually.
Ice: During the first 24 hours, cooling the affected area will decrease swelling and speed healing. Apply a cold pack until the area is cold and feels numb, then remove it for 10-15 minutes (put it in the freezer, if possible). Apply the cold pack on and off for up to 24 hours.
Compression: Apply a crepe bandage to provide gentle pressure to support the injured area and protect it from further injury. Work from the end of the limb towards the trunk. Stretch the bandage slightly as you wrap.
Elevation: If possible, raise the injured part above the level of the heart to reduce swelling.
See a doctor if the injury is severe, especially if there is extensive bruising or deformity, or it is very painful when taking any weight.