Vacations are a time for rest, relaxation and carefreeness. But even a minor health problem can ruin the most wonderful and long-awaited vacation. How to avoid illness? Advice from: doctor Monika Januzovska-Fałat, doctor Izabela Mader-Wołyńska from NZOZ "Twój Lekarz".

When on vacation, you need to watch out primarily for the so-called Pharaoh's Revenge, dehydration, and bites.

Gastrointestinal complaints

Chills, high temperature, weakness, vomiting and diarrhea can be symptoms of the so-called pharaoh's revenge, which can keep you bedridden for several days. How to avoid it?

• wash your hands before and after each meal
  leaving the toilet,
• drink only bottled water,
• wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly, and
  it's best to peel them,
• absolutely do not eat raw meat, fish and
  seafood.

Even simple diarrhea caused by food poisoning can lead to dehydration, so you need to replenish fluids, but avoid milk, juices and alcohol. We recommend eating easily digestible dishes made of rice, wheat or oats. It is worth taking popular, universal medicines for all gastrointestinal ailments from Poland. It is always worth packing electrolytes in your suitcase. We also suggest taking probiotics in preventive doses 2 weeks before departure.

Dehydration

Dehydration occurs as a result of diarrhea or heavy sweating. Elderly people and children are particularly at risk, but adults should also remember to stay hydrated while on vacation. In hot weather, we recommend drinking significantly more water than usual. Dehydration in adults manifests itself as fatigue, drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, weakness, muscle pain and cramps, and decreased urine output. The most common signs of dehydration in children include apathy, drowsiness, cold hands, rapid and shallow breathing, dry mouth, and minimal urine output. The remedy for any dehydration is, of course, water and other fluids, as long as they are unsweetened. Rehydration supplements and electrolytes can also prove beneficial.

Bites

While on summer vacation, we're exposed to more than just mosquito, ant, and spider bites. These are harmless and cause mild symptoms: mild pain, itching, and minor swelling. Less pleasant are the stings of wasps, bees, bumblebees, and hornets. These can cause anxiety and fatigue, chills, fever, and headaches.

In the event of a bee sting, the stinger should be removed immediately. In other cases: wash the bite with soap and water, apply a cold compress and observe for allergic symptoms. People allergic to Hymenoptera venom should always carry an adrenaline syringe with them.

It is people who are allergic to the venom who should be especially careful. In their case, anaphylactic shock can have tragic consequences. Let's also protect children. Let's pack a gel for bites, insect repellents and lime in the first aid kit.