Planned or unplanned, your travel adventure will certainly come with its fair deal of unexpected. While it’s safe to assume nothing wrong will happen while you are away, it is even safer to ensure any health related side-slip will be perfectly managed. You don’t have to invest in advanced medical training before you go, however having the right equipment, knowledge and attitude could certainly improve matters if you find yourself in a tight spot (click here for more) . Here are 5 ways to be prepared for a medical situation.
Travel Insurance
Simply put, you should definitely consider travelling with a medical insurance policy in place. Not only could you find yourself in a financial nightmare, but a lack of insurance could dramatically influence the level of medical treatment you receive. So, it’s not worth the risk! You can check out medical insurance for schengen visa here by clicking the link. If you have travel plans and haven’t yet arranged your travel insurance, the do so now.
Create and pack a first aid kit
Having the right tools for the job can make any minor health inconvenience a little easier. You can buy travel first aid kits online or create your own. Include items such as plasters, bandages, anti-sickness tablets, antihistamines, diarrhoea tablets, sterile gauze, tweezers, pain killers, bandage tape etc. Make sure you take it with you when you’re out and about too. You never know when you – or a fellow traveller – might need it!
Learn some first aid
Much like having a first aid kit, knowing the basics of first aid will certainly make any medical problem a little easier. Learn how to apply dressings properly, tie bandages, administer medication, CPR, the recovery position and even how to help someone who is choking. It will give you more confidence.
Get to grips with the language
Getting to grips with some simple phrases in your host country’s language will also help you in a medical emergency. Asking for help, how to describe pain and various areas of your body, requesting a hospital, ambulance or doctor will also ensure you get the help you need quicker, rather than struggling with the language barrier.
Visit your GP before you travel
Before you travel, make sure you’re up to date with all your travel vaccinations. And while you’re visiting your GP, take the opportunity to discuss any other health concerns you might have. A consistently sore ankle, or stomach problems, a cough that won’t go away etc. If you have prescriptions such as contraceptives etc then make sure you have enough to see you through your travels.
Don’t let a minor medical inconvenience spiral into a medical emergency. Do plenty of research before you travel, pack and plan accordingly and invest in travel insurance!
