MedExpress

Rest and relaxation is important for good health, but it can be hard to enjoy yourself if you’re not feeling your best.  With some forward planning, you can reduce the risk of health concerns like migraines and acid reflux, and make the most of your holiday.

Here are our expert’s tips to avoid and manage common health issues when you’re travelling.

Acid Reflux

Heartburn and acid reflux can happen more often on holidays because of changes in your diet and routine. To help prevent it:

• Choose smaller, frequent meals instead of large, heavy ones⦁ Choose smaller, frequent meals instead of large, heavy ones
• Avoid trigger foods such as spicy, fatty and acidic items
•  Stay upright for at least two hours after eating.
•  Manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing and mindfulness exercises
• If you have chronic acid reflux, try one of our clinically proven acid reflux treatments 

Periods

Menstruation doesn’t have to interrupt your holiday. Here’s what to do if your period is due on holiday.

• Take a period delay treatment. Norethisterone is a hormone-based medication that can help prevent menstruation for up to 17 days. 
• Try light exercises and stay hydrated to relieve discomfort.
• Apply a heating pad or take pain relief if necessary — if you experience period-related migraines, you could also bring a prescription treatment like Zolmitriptan to help relieve symptoms during an attack.

Migraines

Migraines can be triggered by changes in routine, sleep disturbances, or certain foods. To prevent migraines from disrupting your vacation:

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule and ensure you’re well-rested.
• Stay hydrated and avoid skipping meals.
• Create a calm and quiet environment when you feel an episode coming on.
• Order preventive medications if you have migraines frequently.
  

Hay Fever

Hay fever, or seasonal allergies, can make enjoying the outdoors a challenge. Follow these tips to keep hay fever symptoms at bay:

• Check pollen forecasts before planning outdoor activities.
• Keep windows closed in your accommodation and use air conditioning if available.
• Stay prepared with nasal sprays or antihistamines — you can get prescription and over-the-counter treatments online with no doctor’s appointment or pharmacy visit needed. Shop all hayfever treatments here.

Asthma

Asthma can be triggered by allergens, exercise, and changes in climate. Here’s how to prevent asthma attacks during your holiday:

• Carry your prescribed inhaler at all times and make sure to bring spares. Need to stock up? Order more here.
• Avoid exposure to known triggers such as cigarette smoke, dust mites, or pets.
• Engage in regular physical activity but be mindful of your limits.
• Ensure you have all your asthma medications and a written asthma action plan.

Your health should never stop you enjoying a holiday. By being proactive, prepared, and making smart choices, you can minimise the impact of health concerns. 

Remember to pack essential medications, plan your activities wisely, and listen to your body. Need to stock up on any more treatments before you travel? View all MedExpress medications here.