This emergency department doctor shares ten healthy holiday tips to remember!
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When on a holiday, it should be enjoyed to the fullest. However, there may be instances where holidaygoers encounter health issues that may disrupt a supposedly fun time.
Emergency department doctor Dr Jordan Wagner has probably seen it all—from the most severe traumas to the typical holiday mishaps that, with proper knowledge, can be avoided.
Today, let's dive into Dr Wagner's advice on handling holiday illnesses and encounters, and debunk some myths along the way.
Sunburn: The scorching truth
We all love a bit of sun, but sunburn can be a severe issue, particularly for those with more sensitive skin.
Dr Wagner warned against peeling or picking at sunburned skin, which can lead to infections and scarring.
Instead, he recommended applying aloe vera or a soothing lotion to the affected area.
It's crucial to stay hydrated and consider over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Severe symptoms like blistering, fever, or chills are signs to seek medical attention.
Heat stroke: Staying cool under pressure
Heat stroke is a real danger, especially in the Australian summer.
Dr Wagner advised removing excess clothing and applying a cool, wet cloth to the skin.
If the person is conscious and can swallow, offer sips of water. However, avoid giving fluids to unconscious people.
He also advised against using ice or ice-cold water for cooling.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency, so seek immediate help if possible.
Food poisoning: Navigating nausea
Food poisoning can quickly turn a holiday sour.
To combat this, Dr Wagner suggested staying hydrated with clear fluids and eating bland foods once vomiting and diarrhoea have stopped.
Avoid dairy, spicy, or fatty foods, and don't take anti-diarrheal medication without consulting a healthcare professional.
Jellyfish stings: Urine is not the answer
Contrary to popular belief, urine is not a remedy for jellyfish stings. Dr Wagner said it can aggravate the injury.
Instead, rinse the area with vinegar to neutralise the venom and remove any tentacles with tweezers.
Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe, or the sting covers a large area.
Venomous bites: Keeping calm and carrying on
If bitten by a venomous creature, keep the area immobilised and at or below heart level.
Clean the wound and apply a cold compress.
Do not attempt to suck out venom or apply a tourniquet. Instead, seek immediate medical attention.
Wasp and bee stings: A sticky situation
For bee and wasp stings, remove the bee stinger by scraping it off and wash the area with soap and water.
Apply a cold compress and take antihistamines or pain relievers as needed.
Avoid using tweezers, and don't scratch the area.
Watch for signs of an allergic reaction which requires immediate medical attention.
Dehydration: More than just a dry spell
Stay hydrated with water and rest in a cool, shaded area.
Avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages; don't wait until you're thirsty.
Symptoms like a dry mouth, dark urine, or dizziness should not be ignored.
Frostbite: A cold reality
Gently rewarm the affected area with warm water or compresses.
Seek medical attention for severe frostbites.
Avoid using direct heat sources or massaging the frostbitten area, as this can cause further damage.
Hypothermia: Warming up wisely
Move to a warm area, remove wet clothing, and wrap the person in blankets.
Provide warm beverages if people with hypothermia are conscious.
Do not rewarm too quickly, as this can cause shock or cardiac arrest.
Wild animal bites: Preventing a wild outcome
Clean the wound, apply antiseptic cream, and cover it with a sterile bandage.
Seek medical attention for a proper assessment and potential rabies vaccination.
Do not ignore the bite or delay seeking medical help.
Dr Wagner's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to enjoy their holiday without the added stress of health mishaps.
By following these do's and don'ts, you can ensure that your time away is as safe as enjoyable.
Have you ever gotten sick during a holiday? Share your experiences and how you dealt with them in the comments below.
Emergency department doctor Dr Jordan Wagner has probably seen it all—from the most severe traumas to the typical holiday mishaps that, with proper knowledge, can be avoided.
Today, let's dive into Dr Wagner's advice on handling holiday illnesses and encounters, and debunk some myths along the way.
Sunburn: The scorching truth
We all love a bit of sun, but sunburn can be a severe issue, particularly for those with more sensitive skin.
Dr Wagner warned against peeling or picking at sunburned skin, which can lead to infections and scarring.
Instead, he recommended applying aloe vera or a soothing lotion to the affected area.
It's crucial to stay hydrated and consider over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Severe symptoms like blistering, fever, or chills are signs to seek medical attention.
A fun holiday is one where people are safe and enjoying to the fullest. Image Credit: Pexels/Centre for Ageing Better
Heat stroke: Staying cool under pressure
Heat stroke is a real danger, especially in the Australian summer.
Dr Wagner advised removing excess clothing and applying a cool, wet cloth to the skin.
If the person is conscious and can swallow, offer sips of water. However, avoid giving fluids to unconscious people.
He also advised against using ice or ice-cold water for cooling.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency, so seek immediate help if possible.
Food poisoning: Navigating nausea
Food poisoning can quickly turn a holiday sour.
To combat this, Dr Wagner suggested staying hydrated with clear fluids and eating bland foods once vomiting and diarrhoea have stopped.
Avoid dairy, spicy, or fatty foods, and don't take anti-diarrheal medication without consulting a healthcare professional.
Jellyfish stings: Urine is not the answer
Contrary to popular belief, urine is not a remedy for jellyfish stings. Dr Wagner said it can aggravate the injury.
Instead, rinse the area with vinegar to neutralise the venom and remove any tentacles with tweezers.
Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe, or the sting covers a large area.
Venomous bites: Keeping calm and carrying on
If bitten by a venomous creature, keep the area immobilised and at or below heart level.
Clean the wound and apply a cold compress.
Do not attempt to suck out venom or apply a tourniquet. Instead, seek immediate medical attention.
Wasp and bee stings: A sticky situation
For bee and wasp stings, remove the bee stinger by scraping it off and wash the area with soap and water.
Apply a cold compress and take antihistamines or pain relievers as needed.
Avoid using tweezers, and don't scratch the area.
Watch for signs of an allergic reaction which requires immediate medical attention.
Dehydration: More than just a dry spell
Stay hydrated with water and rest in a cool, shaded area.
Avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages; don't wait until you're thirsty.
Symptoms like a dry mouth, dark urine, or dizziness should not be ignored.
Frostbite: A cold reality
Gently rewarm the affected area with warm water or compresses.
Seek medical attention for severe frostbites.
Avoid using direct heat sources or massaging the frostbitten area, as this can cause further damage.
Hypothermia: Warming up wisely
Move to a warm area, remove wet clothing, and wrap the person in blankets.
Provide warm beverages if people with hypothermia are conscious.
Do not rewarm too quickly, as this can cause shock or cardiac arrest.
Clean the wound, apply antiseptic cream, and cover it with a sterile bandage.
Seek medical attention for a proper assessment and potential rabies vaccination.
Do not ignore the bite or delay seeking medical help.
Dr Wagner's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to enjoy their holiday without the added stress of health mishaps.
By following these do's and don'ts, you can ensure that your time away is as safe as enjoyable.
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