Traveling is the best thing to do in life, if not the best. However, sometimes doubts arise when it comes to flying to a tropical country , as we fear that we are not sufficiently prepared.
So that you travel with all the peace of mind in the world without fear of what might happen, I have decided to prepare this article that will serve as a guide for you to prepare a first-aid kit to prevent unforeseen events. There are certain medications and recommendations that should not be overlooked, so take note and enjoy.
Antibiotics
They are used to stop the action of bacteria, which is why they are also known as antibacterial . The ideal is to arrange a visit with a doctor, but if this is not possible and if the fever is very high, it never hurts to take Amoxycycline in the doses recommended in the package insert.
Antihistamines
They aim to reduce or eliminate the effects of allergies , something that is possible by blocking histamine receptors. Think that an insect bite can cause an allergic reaction.
If you are driving in your destination, be aware that there are antihistamines that cause drowsiness . They are the first generation, such as Polaramine, Atarax or Actithiol. That is why it is advisable to opt for others such as the second generation (Ebastel, Cetirizine and Levocetirizine) or the third generation (Aerius or Xazal).
Analgesics and anti-inflammatories
Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are the most popular. They are very useful to solve headaches or muscle aches and it is good to always carry them with you. They are usually given orally and do not usually take long to work.
Antidiarrheals
This is the most essential in a first-aid kit that is prepared before traveling to a tropical country. Why? Because by drinking tap water or eating in a market you run the risk of suffering from traveler’s diarrhea , also known as intestinal flu. In 30% of cases it leaves you between two and three days in bed, so it is enough to take it very seriously. Antidiarrheals such as loperamide may be the solution. Of course, it should not be given if it is a two-year-old child who suffers from the problem or if the diarrhea is accompanied by blood or high fever.
Live dairy ferments are also of great help because we restore the balance of the bacterial flora, while Ciprofloxacin and Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim are recommended in cases of moderate diarrhea when it is not possible to go to a hospital.
Antifungals
To prevent or cure fungal infections, Clctrimazole and Miconazole are two very valid drugs. We must also think of Chlorhexidine as a mouthwash or mouthwash that keeps us out of possible oral infections caused by a fungus.
Antiseptics
Polyvidone iodine is a disinfectant that works great for healing small cuts on the skin. Betadine and Hibitane are the products that I recommend in this case.
Sun creams
It goes without saying that in tropical countries the sun hits hard, so it is essential to always carry a good sunscreen with you. It is not necessary to go to the beach to get burned, nor is it an excuse not to apply cream because "I am dark and I am used to it." The higher the protection factor the better.
Insect repellants
Insects can be your headache on a tropical trip, especially the dreaded mosquitoes . This is why you should spray the part of your arms and legs that will be exposed twice a day. I recommend Relec Extra Fuerte, which is the one usually taken by those who go to countries at risk of contracting malaria, dengue or yellow fever. It is composed of 50% DEET, lavender oil and geraniol oil. DEET is the ingredient used in all insect repellants and should not be applied to the skin if there is a wound.
Basic equipment
All of the above is very important, but the most basic of all is what I mention in this section. Scissors, dressings, tape, safety pins, tweezers, sterile gauze, tweezers … You never know what could happen .
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