TRAVEL MEDICINE
The holiday season is here, and many people go for a vacation or a reunion, requiring a trip away from home. It is fun to get away and it feels equally good to come back. Many hidden dangers and risks exist in traveling and a certain amount of caution can ward them off. Every trip has inherent risks of mental and physical strain. There is excitement as well as anguish. Older adults are at higher risk because of pre-existing medical conditions along with diminished physiological reserve.
While we do not have reliable data on travel-related medical problems, we know that upper respiratory infections, gastro-intestinal disorders and travel related injuries are the most common health problems noted by travelers. Venous thrombo-embolism and inflight emergencies are well described.
Planning your trip: Time spent studying the itinerary, accommodation, activities and all other fine details are well worth to avoid surprises and disappointments. Whenever possible, take a non-stop flight to avoid missing connections, lost luggage and time. Flights are booked full these days. If one can afford it, a business-class ticket is well worth it, to make the trip more tolerable.
Understanding biorhythms: Disruption of your biorhythm is to be expected during travel. At home, we are used to a certain time schedule for body functions, from the time you get up to the time you go to sleep, time to eat, exercise, use of toilet, mental activities and so forth. These routines provide us with a level of comfort and security. All these routines and timings can be disrupted during a trip, throwing you into a state of inconvenience, anxiety and anguish. Mental preparedness is needed to overcome these disruptions. Change of climate, language, customs, hazards, crimes, unfamiliar surroundings are issues that can add to confusion.
Food: We want to try different cuisines, or we are forced to eat what is available during a trip. Food poisoning, allergies or intolerance are real possibilities. Hot, freshly cooked food is safer than cold preserved pre-made food. We tend to overeat during travel, especially from the buffet lines. We may drink alcohol and eat snacks or unhealthy foods more than our usual habits. Diarrhea, parasitic infestations, viral infections or indigestion are likely to occur. Hand washing or use of hand sanitizers are to be observed as best as possible. Drinking water as well as water for washing hands or bathing can be contaminated. Ice cubes may be made from contaminated water. Make sure one does not get dehydrated at same time.
Medications: One should carry all the prescription medications to last twice the number of days of travel in the hand-carry bag. They should not be kept inside the checked luggage, since the luggage can be lost or delayed. The medications should be taken at same time schedules as followed at home. In addition, one may carry medications to counteract allergic reactions, indigestion, diarrhea, pain, headache and a common oral antibiotic. It is a good idea to carry a written list of medications, allergies, medical problems and contact information in the handbag, in case of urgent help. Those with significant medical problems, especially cardio-pulmonary issues, should consult their primary care physician as to the safety of undertaking the trip in the first place.
Safety: Injuries, falls or accidents can happen when you are in new environments and tours. Properly fitting walking shoes are needed for tours. Several of the old monuments, temples and historic sites have stone steps, deep slopes, rough pathways and insecure sections. Hallways and tunnels can be narrow, crowded and dark. Extra caution is to be taken while walking with slow and careful steps. Follow specific instructions by the tour guide/agency. Lack of handicapped access, hazards, lack of handlebars or handrails with steep stairways, slippery slopes, unfamiliar hotel rooms, cognitive impairment related to jetlag or sleeplessness, confusion in a hurried mode are factors that can cause injuries and stress. Mobile phones can cause distractions while texting, taking photos or selfies or making calls leading to falls and accidents.
Personal protection: Crowds can bring people into close contact with each other, resulting in airborne or touch-related infections. Masks, hand sanitizers and washable clothes are used as necessities. Watch for stampedes in congested walled-off pathways. Sunglasses, hats or head coverings will help to reduce direct sun exposure. Suntan lotions or insect repellents are sprayed as needed. Long sleeve shirts and pants will reduce personal contact and insect bites and thus lessen the chance of infections from mosquitoes, ticks and bugs.
Vaccinations: Different countries recommend vaccinations and prophylactic medications to avoid endemic infections. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a good source to get specific information. In general, one should at least take flu vaccine, along with Covid booster a month ahead of the planned travel. Protections against malaria, yellow fever, hepatitis and rabies are recommended in certain countries. In India, there are many wandering stray dogs, cows and monkeys that can cause animal bites.
Blood clot in veins: Prevention of blood clot formation in calf veins is an important consideration, especially for those who are likely to sit in the same position for several hours, whether it be in an airplane or car. It would be beneficial to move around, stretch the legs and body and exercise the calf muscles every two hours. Those who have prior medical problems may take mild dose of anticoagulants or aspirin for further protection.
Medical insurance/assistance: It would be a good idea to investigate the medical facilities available in the place of visit, as well as the cost of care. Travel protection/insurance plans are of some help. Your own medical insurance plans may cover a portion too.
Public information on travel risks, and recommendations are available at wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel Please do enjoy your trip but use caution. Careful planning and preparation can make it a safe journey.EYE CARE
An Eye on the New Year
By Dr. ARUN GULANI
As December rolls in, Florida's unique charm shines brightly. From sunny days to festive evenings filled with sparkling lights and coastal celebrations, it’s a time for reflection and renewal. While we plan holiday gatherings, year-end vacations and resolutions for the new year, lets focus on the health of our eyes — our window to the vibrant world around us.
The year’s end is often a time of hustle and celebration, but it’s also an opportunity to pause, reflect and make thoughtful choices about our health and well-being, including our vision. Whether it’s taking better care of your eyes or exploring new ways to maintain their health, December offers a unique moment to prepare for the year ahead with clarity, literally and figuratively.
Toy Safety: Protecting Young Eyes During the Holidays
December is also Toy Safety Month (American Academy of Ophthalmology) and of course a season of gift-giving, and while toys bring joy and excitement to children, they can also pose unexpected risks to their vision. According to eye health organizations, thousands of toy-related eye injuries are reported annually, many of which occur during the holiday season. When selecting toys, opt for age-appropriate items and avoid those with sharp edges, small projectiles or laser components that could harm a child’s eyes. For sports-related gifts such as balls or bats, include protective eyewear to encourage safe play. By choosing thoughtfully and supervising playtime, you can help ensure the holidays are memorable for all the right reasons — keeping young eyes healthy and safe for the new year.
Florida’s lifestyle, with its abundant sunshine, outdoor activities and beautiful coastal scenery, puts unique demands on eye health. Exposure to UV rays is a year-round concern here, even during the cooler months of winter. The reflective surfaces of water, sand and even holiday decorations amplify glare, making proper eye protection essential. Sunglasses with UV protection aren’t just a summer accessory; they’re an everyday necessity for Floridians.
December’s cooler and often drier air can also contribute to dry eye symptoms, particularly when combined with the use of indoor heating. While we may not experience the extreme cold of northern states, these subtle changes in the environment can still affect our eyes. Simple measures like staying hydrated, using a humidifier and applying lubricating eye drops can make a big difference in maintaining eye comfort during the winter months.
December naturally inspires reflection. It’s when we look back on the year that’s passed — what we’ve achieved, what we’ve experienced and what we’d like to improve. For many, vision might not be top of mind, but it plays a crucial role in nearly every aspect of our lives.
Consider how much you rely on your eyes daily, whether it’s watching a Gulf Coast sunset, reading holiday cards from loved ones, or navigating crowded markets during holiday shopping. If you’ve been putting off addressing vision concerns, such as difficulty seeing at night or blurred vision at a distance, the end of the year can be a great time to take action.
Here are a few tips to help you maintain a healthy vision during the holiday season and beyond:
- Protect Against UV Rays: Even in December, Florida’s sun can be intense. Invest in quality sunglasses that block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays. Polarized lenses can also help reduce glare, especially when driving or near water.
- Stay Hydrated: Florida’s mild winters can still lead to dehydration, which affects eye moisture. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and consider using a humidifier at home to combat dry air.
- Mind Digital Eye Strain: With holiday shopping, family video calls and end-of-year work deadlines, screen time tends to increase. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Eat for Your Eyes: Incorporate foods rich in nutrients that support eye health, such as omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish such as grouper and snapper), vitamin C (abundant in Florida’s citrus fruits), and leafy greens like kale and spinach.
- Schedule a Check-Up: If you haven’t had an eye exam in a while, now’s the time to make an appointment. Routine exams can catch issues early and ensure your eyes are healthy heading into the new year.
The new year is synonymous with fresh starts and new possibilities. Clear vision —whether literal or metaphorical — can significantly influence how we approach the goals and adventures ahead. Improved eyesight enhances not only your ability to see but your confidence, productivity and overall quality of life too.
If you’re noticing changes in your vision, such as difficulty seeing at night, frequent headaches, or increased reliance on reading glasses, it might be time to explore options. The good news is that modern eye care has made addressing vision concerns more accessible and effective than ever before. Advanced laser techniques like Next Generation Lasik LaZrPlastique®, and cataract surgery LenzOplastique®, including repair techniques for those with failed eye surgeries like Radial Keratotomy, premium lens cataract surgery, Lasik or keratoconus surgery are now available.
The Year-End Lens: Looking Back, Planning Ahead
As you jot down your resolutions for the new year, consider adding eye health to the list. Whether it’s scheduling that long-overdue eye exam, investing in high-quality sunglasses or making small lifestyle changes to support vision, these steps can pay off for years to come.
The holiday season is all about seeing the world in its best light — both literally and figuratively. This December, take a moment to reflect on the role vision plays in your daily life and how taking care of your eyes can bring a brighter, healthier 2025.