Going on your first family holiday is one of the most exciting things you can do. With every cute little sunhat and bottle of kids sun cream you buy, your mind conjures up a new image of your little one happily building sun castles on a paradise beach. But there’s also the worry: what if your bundle of joy falls ill while in another country? What are you meant to do without the safety net of your family doctor or health visitor on speed dial?
Our Southend family chiropractor recommends that the best thing you can do is be prepared. The more equipped you are for the unexpected, the more confident you’ll be.
Before you set off on your holidays, bear in mind that every environment comes with its own unique health risks. In other words, your children may be exposed to different bacteria and viruses that can take a little getting used to. This may be the culprit if your little one suddenly develops a “cold” while the rest of you swelter in the overseas temperatures!
If you’re travelling to a different climate, your child may also encounter unusual bites, allergies or rashes that may raise an eyebrow or two! But don’t panic; this is very common. The best thing to do is pack plenty of medicines with you that you know your children will respond to. This will save you a lot of stress if you can’t get hold of them at the local pharmacy while you’re abroad.
If your child has a complex medical history, it’s also worth asking your doctor to write a letter outlining any details of the condition, medications and treatment history. Even better, get it translated into the language of the country you’re travelling to.
Similarly if your child has serious allergies, it’s worth arranging a card that details what they’re allergic to and how serious the condition is. Allergy UK offers these cards in 27 different languages. You can find out more at allergyuk.org.
Remember that your holiday is meant to be a fun experience. It’s good to be prepared, but don’t let your anxieties put your enjoyment in jeopardy. Relax, have fun and lap up a blissful week or two in the sun with your family.