Family Health Implications from a Cross-Country Move

 

 

By Rianne Hunter 

 

Do not take peace of mind for granted as you plan a move. It is easy to develop a health problem on the road. Plan properly so that you avoid hospital visits and enjoy the trip at the same time. Learn five factors that affect your family’s health during a cross-country move.

 

1. Stress

 

Stress is the number one problem that affects a move. You worry about getting to the airport on time, having a safe flight, making a timely reservation and not having a medical emergency to name a few. However, there are some ways that you can prevent stress. The best tip is to plan early. Make a list of the objectives that create a successful move. On the day of the move, sleep well and eat properly before you get on a plane or bus. Make sure that your family is de-stressed before, during and after a long-distance trip. Looking to companies like daffodilstorage.com for help with providing a backup place to store things in case your home isn’t ready, or even as a staging area for the big move-in day can be helpful for reducing stress.  Talk with moving professionals to see what options you have to create backup plans.  Planning ahead generally will never hurt.

 

2. Changes in Environment

 

When you move to another country, you are likely to encounter a different environment. To avoid any shock, research the region’s climate and seasonal temperatures and then bring the right clothes. Know the temperature on the moving day in case you are exposed outside for a long time. If you or another family member suffers from allergies, it is very important to know about the environment. You do not want to trigger any unseen illnesses after you get exposed to unknown elements.

 

3. Lack of Healthcare Materials

 

Bring along the right medical tools if you suffer from health conditions. Diabetics do not know when they need their supplies. Someone who travels with oxygen should consider bringing along a valid prescription along with a Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN). If you have a health condition, come prepared for emergencies that occur on the move. In general, everyone should have water and food because hunger could strike at any time.

 

4. Idleness

 

Cramping and clotting occurs often when people sit idly for many hours. A cross-country plane flight is usually long and tedious. Adults and children want to walk around, but they must stay rooted most of the time. After a few hours, you may have cramps and blood clots in legs that have not been stretched properly. For this reason, stretch the arms, legs and neck every hour. Bring along pillows to place behind the neck and underneath the knees.

 

5. Travel Sicknesses

 

When you travel into another country, you eat their food with little regards to the sources. Problems happen when you eat new, unfamiliar foods. Traveler’s diarrhea involves the consumption of tainted food or water. Only buy at reputable restaurants and grocery stores. If you get this condition, treat it by drinking a lot of water and take stomach ailment medicine like Pepto-Bismol. It takes time for your body to become accustomed to a new cuisine.

 

If you plan a move, the most important factor is not money or convenience. It is the health of you and your family. Make a list of all the items needed to secure optimal health. Ensure that your family is insured as well. You do not want to show up at an unknown country with no contacts and pay excessive costs for medical bills. Become prepared before, during and after you move.

 

 

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