When planning for a vacation or trip, it is important to be prepared for potential medical needs and to include a basic medical kit.

Such a medical kit should include an adequate supply of all currently prescribed medications, plus extras in case of a delay. This is particularly true for medications such as insulin, blood pressure and cardiac drugs, where a sudden cessation of treatment can lead to grave consequences.

If you have a medical condition that requires urgent recognition and treatment, it is advisable to wear a medical alert tag or bracelet. Such conditions include epilepsy, diabetes, cardiac disorders or severe drug reactions (or allergies). A letter from your regular doctor back home (including contact numbers) is advisable for those with complicated medical histories.

It also makes sense to check with your doctor several weeks before travel, what vaccinations or medication prophylaxis (e.g. malaria) are recommended when traveling to less developed regions.

In addition to the basic supply of bandages, dressing and anti-infective cleansing solutions, the following items are recommended to have available when traveling:

For Aches and Pains and Fever
1) Paracetamol, acetaminophen or ibuprofen tablets for fever, headaches or muscle aches. Aspirin may also be taken, as long as you are not allergic to it. Children can sometimes have adverse reactions to aspirin; therefore, it is better to use one of the abovementioned preparations.

For Diarrhea
2) Medication to help alleviate loose stools or diarrhea. One may initially use either charcoal tablets, kaopectate or kaolin. Bismuth subsalicylate, taken as Pepto-Bismol liquid 60 mls four times a day, can decrease symptoms. Diphenoxylate (Lomotil), and loperamide (Imodium) both provide symptomatic relief, but should not be used if you have high fever or blood in your stool. Also, these drugs should also be discontinued if symptoms persist longer than 48-72 hours.

Travelers with more severe symptoms (e.g. more than three loose stools within eight hours) may benefit from antibiotic treatment such as cotrimoxazole, ciprofloxacin or norfloxacin.
Rehydration mixtures are helpful for treatment of severe diarrhea, and are especially important when traveling with children.

You should consult a doctor if symptoms persist more than a few days, if symptoms are associated with high fever, vomiting or dizziness, if diarrhea is voluminous or if there is blood in your stool.

For Sinusitis, Allergies or Colds
3) Antihistamines, decongestants and throat lozenges may be needed if you have problems with sinusitis, allergies or simple upper respiratory infections, ("colds"). Antihistamines may cause sedation and interact with alcohol. Therefore, you may need to refrain from driving or other activities requiring mental alertness.

For Cuts and Bruises
4) It is a good idea to have a tube of antibiotic cream or ointment for simple cuts and bruises that can quickly become infected in tropical climates.

To Protect Your Skin
5) Sunblock creams or lotions, in addition to wearing a hat, are a must if you plan to be exposed to the sun. Protection against lip chapping is also advisable. Skin lotions such as Calamine or Caladryl will help alleviate skin irritation or rashes.

Mosquito Repellants
6) Mosquito sprays and repellants containing diethylmethyl toluamide (DEET, 20-30%) are recommended, especially during evening and night hours. DEET can, however, cause severe reactions, particularly with prolonged or excessive use in children or in higher concentrations. Spraying clothing with permethrin (permanone) and using permethrin-impregnated mosquito nets may also help.

For Motion Sickness
7) If you are prone to motion sickness, nausea or vertigo, it may be wise to carry a supply of antiemetic medication such as prochloroperazine, dimenhydrinate or promethazine.
Antiemetic skin patches (Scopaderm TTS) provide similar therapeutic efficiency. They are usually placed behind the ear before embarking on a journey.

Vitamins
8) A daily multivitamin tablet may be advisable if your eating habits become irregular or unbalanced during your trip.

Miscellaneous
9) Scissors, tweezers, nail clippers and a thermometer.
(note: mercury thermometers are prohibited in airlines)

10) A few syringes and needles are recommended if you plan to travel in countries where medical facilities are inadequate.

All the above items and medications can alleviate simple medical problems that can occur during travels. Obviously, any persistent or progressive discomfort should be brought to the attention of a local physician.

In case of a more serious accident or illness, medical assistance companies can also provide valuable assistance and referral information through their international networks.

Vacations can be more enjoyable and relaxing when you are prepared against unexpected medical problems and emergencies.