Tips for Preventing Illnesses in Elderly Travelers
After retirement, many elderly people enjoy a leisurely life and often travel with friends to relax and appreciate the beauty of nature. Traveling not only helps to relax the mind but also allows them to breathe fresh air, which contributes to their overall health. However, factors such as unfamiliar food and water, bumpy roads, and changing weather conditions can become triggers for sudden illnesses in elderly travelers.
I would like to remind elderly friends that while traveling can be enjoyable, it is important to take preventive measures against illnesses. It is essential to bring necessary medications, especially emergency medications. It is also recommended to have a medical check-up before embarking on a trip to understand one's own physical condition and be prepared for any unexpected illnesses during the journey.
Below are four common illnesses that elderly travelers should be aware of and take precautions against.
1. Fainting
Fainting is often caused by fatigue. Patients may suddenly collapse, lose consciousness, have a pale complexion, and sweat profusely.
In such cases, it is important not to move the patient randomly. First, observe whether the patient's heartbeat and breathing are abnormal. If the heartbeat and breathing are normal, gently tap the patient and call them loudly to wake them up. If there is no response, it indicates a more complex situation, and immediate medical attention should be sought.
2. Cardiac Asthma
Exhaustion can often trigger or worsen acute attacks of cardiac asthma. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Patients should be placed in a semi-reclining position and use a cloth band to alternately tie the patient's three limbs, every 5 minutes. This can help reduce the burden on the heart.
3. Angina Pectoris
Angina pectoris is often caused by exertion, overeating, excitement, or exposure to cold. Therefore, patients with a history of angina pectoris should carry emergency medications when traveling in the autumn.
If angina pectoris occurs, the patient should be helped to sit up and should not be moved. Nitroglycerin should be administered under the tongue, and medications such as musk heart pills or sublingual su bing drops should be taken to relieve the condition.
4. Acute Gastroenteritis
Due to the consumption of contaminated food or water during the journey, various acute gastrointestinal diseases can easily occur. If symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and severe abdominal pain occur, the patient should be immediately taken to the nearest hospital for diagnosis and treatment. Vomit and feces should be disinfected according to the requirements of epidemic prevention to prevent the spread of diseases.
