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Staying Fit While Traveling: Essential Medical Advice from Rambam Experts

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Vacation—a time to relax, explore, and unwind—requires thoughtful preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Expert physicians from Rambam Health Care Campus (Rambam) in Haifa, Israel highlight key health tips for travelers, from pregnancy and vaccinations to managing chronic conditions and addressing fear of flying.

There is one thing that is often taken for granted when planning a vacation: health! Rambam physicians have compiled this short guide to help ensure you have a truly relaxing vacation. Bon voyage!


Protect Yourself with Vaccinations

Traveling to exotic destinations may expose you to unfamiliar diseases. Dr. Ami Neuberger, Director of the Traveler Medicine Service and the Department of Internal Medicine D at Rambam, emphasizes the importance of consulting a travel clinic before your trip. “Determining the necessary vaccinations based on your destination and itinerary is crucial to protecting against diseases like malaria and yellow fever, especially for travel to Africa, Asia, and South America,” says Dr. Neuberger. Taking these precautions ensures a safe and worry-free adventure.


Traveling While Pregnant

For most women, flying before the 36th week of pregnancy poses no significant risk. Staying hydrated, moving during flights, and securing adequate insurance are key steps for a safe journey. However, advanced pregnancies or high-risk conditions may require additional medical consultation. “If you are pregnant, always consult your physician before traveling,” advises Professor Ido Solt, Director of the Prof Dov and Mrs. Edith Katz Maternal and Fetal Unit at Rambam.




Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (often referred to as DVT) is a potentially life-threatening condition triggered by prolonged immobility during flights, but it can be mitigated with proper precautions. Dr. Ron Hoffman, Director of Hematology Clinical Services and Deputy Director of the Institute of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, emphasizes the importance of frequent movement, staying hydrated, and using preventive measures during long flights to reduce the risk of DVT.


Managing Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

“When traveling with chronic conditions, dental issues, or with respiratory or cardiac concerns, consult with your physician before traveling,” Dr. Razi Even-Dar, an attending physician at the Institute of Pulmonology advises. He also recommends pre-flight assessments for individuals with lung or heart diseases to evaluate their ability to tolerate reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes. Tests like the High-Altitude Simulation Test )HAST) can provide vital information to ensure safe travel conditions.


Similarly, addressing dental issues before departure is critical to avoiding discomfort abroad. “Dental problems can become severe during travel if not treated in advance,” cautions Professor Dror Aizenbud, Director of the Rambam School of Graduate Dentistry and the Department of Orthodontics and Craniofacial Anomalies.


Overcoming a Fear of Flying

For those with a fear of flying, or aviophobia, techniques like guided imagery and meditation can help ease anxiety. “Professional support is also available for those who need additional assistance,” says Dr. Haya Yaron, the Director of Rambam’s Mental Health Clinic.


Travel Confidently

With expert insights from Rambam’s specialists, travelers can prioritize their health and safety while embarking on memorable journeys. Thoughtful preparation is the key to a successful and stress-free vacation. Rambam also offers a Travel Health Clinic to all Israeli residents. To book an appointment online, visit https://www.rambam.org.il/travel_clinic_rambam/zimun_metaylim/.


Contact

8 HaAliyah Hashniya St., Bat Galim, Haifa 3109601​​​​

info@rmc.gov.il

*5324 or 04-7775368 - Service and Information Center

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