Motion Sickness
Signs of motion sickness are dizziness, nausea, queasiness and upset stomach that accompany the motion of car, boat, plane and train travel.

While traveling by car, try to sit in the front and avoid reading. When traveling by boat, sit as close to the middle of the vessel as possible and look straight ahead at the horizon, at a fixed point that will not move. Today's cruise ships are built for comfort, with stabilizers for a smooth sail and most passengers experience little or no motion sickness. When flying, try to sit near the wing of the plane, or the side where you are accostomed to driving. Ear plugs may also help.

Overactive Bladder
People with overactive bladders may experience symptoms of frequency (urinating more than several times a day), urgency (an overwhelming urge to urninate) or incontinence (a sudden, uncontrollable release of urine). We are all familiar with the popular TV commercials for a medication for overactive bladder. This medication may be your answer. An overactive bladder can be a difficult problem to cope with during trips, requiring many restroom visits. Ask your doctor about a prescription medication for travel to help alleviate this problem. For more information visit: www.overactivebladder.com

Digestive Problems
People with digestive disorders such as diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome may also require frequent restroom visits during long trips. Over-the-counter antidiarrheal medications are helpful and there are prescription medications available for people who may experience more severe symptoms. Avoid stress, caffeine, and certain types of high-fat foods can help keep these conditions under control.

Consult your travel agent on the availability of special airline meals to suit your dietary needs. On international journeys, your travel agent can recommend high quality hotels and tours with meals included in pre-selected restaurants.

Allergies
If you suffer from allergies to molds, mites, dust, pollen, animal fur, insects, foods and other substances, then you should take the same precautions on vacation as you do at home. Bring any prescription or over-the-counter anti-allergy medications used on a regular basis. It is also a good idea to bring an antihistamine in case of accidental exposure to a substance that triggers and allergic reaction.

Think about bringing your own pillowcase from home and use it in hotels or cruise cabins. This is especially helpful if you have sensitive skin. Some hotels and cruise lines even have non-allergic pillows and non-smoking rooms. Ask your travel agent about availabilty.

Joint, Muscle Aches and Arthritis
The inflammation of the joints that occurs with arthritis may be expecially troubling during long trips that restrict movement. Take frequent breaks to walk around and relieve stiff joints and muscles to make car, plane, train, and cruise trips more enjoyable. Remember to pack aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or any presciption medication you normally use for arthritis. Also consider packing an air activated heating pad such as "Therma Care" that can be purchased at any store that carries health products.

Consult a Professional
Don't let travel health concerns keep you at home. Some advanced planning will assure that you have a great vacation. Talk with your doctor about any travel health issues you may have. Seek the advice of a professional travel agent who will help ensure that your trip is fun and worry-free.

If you experience a medical problem during your travels, ask for assisitance at your hotel or cruise ship.

Don't Forget to Bring…

More than enough prescrition medication in case of loss, theft, breakage, or spillage

A note from your doctor with a medicatl diagnosis for a chonic condition as well as medications and dosages prescribed

Multivitamins

Medical ID bracelets or cards listing your chronic health conditions for emergency personel

Extra eyeglasses, lens prescritions, contact lens solutions

Extra hearing-aid batteries

Pillowcase from home for allergy sufferers

Sunscreen (at least SPF 15)

Bottled Water

Insect repellent with diethyltoluamide (DEET)

Ear plugs

Always pack medication in your carry-on bag. Never pack them in checked baggage of luggage that will be stored out of your reach, where they could spill or be exposed to harmful temperatures.