When you are planning a big trip abroad, there are so many factors to consider, from what to pack to whether or not you need power adapters, and what you are going to do while you are exploring new countries. On top of that, there are major health concerns to keep in mind. After all, you are going to be away from home for an extended period of time in a completely different part of the world, and where medical professionals are trained differently and do not necessarily speak English. So, get to know some of the health concerns that you should address before you head out on your vacation journey abroad. 

Get A Physical Before You Go

No matter what part of the world you plan to visit, getting a pre-trip physical will only serve to benefit you and increase your peace of mind before you hop on a plane and head out to the great unknown. A physical exam with your primary care physician will check your vital signs including blood pressure, temperature, and heart/breathing rate.

They will also perform a heart and lung function exam, a neurological exam, abdominal exam, and an extremities exam. If any abnormalities are found, they may also run lab panels and additional exams to rule out any previous undiagnosed health conditions. A physical exam before your trip can help to ensure that you are in good health before you travel, and that you address and get treatment for any problems or conditions before you are thousands of miles away from your primary care physician. 

Ensure You Have All The Necessary Vaccinations And Boosters

Whenever you leave the country, you put yourself at risk of being exposed to health concerns and diseases that are not prevalent or even existent in your country. If you travel to an African nation, for example, rates of diseases like malaria and Ebola are relatively high, whereas they do not natively occur in the United States. 

So, when you have your travel itinerary planned out and you know what countries and regions you plan to explore, talk to your primary care physician about health concerns in those nations and what vaccinations are recommended and required for travel. Being immunized against major diseases will help to keep you healthy and safe in your travels. And in the case of diseases like Ebola that have no vaccinations available and are highly contagious, your doctor can give you recommendations for how to avoid and limit exposure and stay healthy. 

Get Extras Of Your Regular Prescriptions

If you take regular or daily medications for a chronic condition, you need to make sure you have enough of the medication to last you through your entire trip. This often means asking your doctor for a prescription for extra doses to stock up to last the duration of your trip. 

Additionally, if your luggage gets lost in flight, you may be without your prescriptions for an extended period of time. So, you should have written copies of your prescription in your purse, wallet or carry-on luggage to ensure that you can get more if you need it. 

Ultimately, traveling abroad can be an amazing experience and adventure, but you need to be sure that you keep your health and safety in mind as you plan your travels. By taking a few simple steps, you can ensure that your health is as protected as possible when you head out on your travels. Contact a primary care physician like Monticello Clinic for more things to consider.