Despite the closed sky, Ukrainians are still traveling abroad quite actively, especially during the holiday season. The most popular destinations remain Turkey, Egypt, and Bulgaria; this year, Greece has been added to the list. However, trips now involve a long journey by land, followed by a flight to the vacation country. UNN has compiled tips for you on how to endure a long time on the road more easily.
Take care of your comfort
Regardless of the mode of transport you are using, take care of comfortable clothing – it should be comfortable and loose enough, especially around the waist and ankles. Choose clothing made from non-sweating fabric so it can breathe and excess moisture can evaporate. Shoes should also be roomy and comfortable not only for sitting but also for movement. It is better to avoid flip-flops, which can slip off at the most inopportune moment. If possible, bring a travel pillow, and if needed, a small thin blanket.
Be sure to pack a first aid kit; if you or your loved ones have chronic diseases, bring medications taken on a regular basis and those needed in case of exacerbations. Consult a doctor if necessary.
How to avoid swelling
Swelling of the legs and feet during a long trip is a common phenomenon, usually harmless. The cause is mostly prolonged sitting without movement. Fluid in the body literally settles in the feet due to prolonged sitting; the effect usually passes soon after the person starts walking or rests in a horizontal position.
So, movement will help prevent such swelling. If you are traveling by car, plan stops in advance where you can walk at least a little. In general, you should move every 2-3 hours, and more often if possible. On a bus or train, you have more opportunities to stand up and stretch your legs – do not neglect this. Do not cross your legs while sitting – this impairs blood flow.
If you cannot stand up, then do exercises while sitting: lift and lower your toes, keeping your heels on the floor, then lift and lower your heels, keeping your toes on the floor – do this every 20 minutes.
Use compression garments; graduated compression stockings are best. In addition to swelling, they also reduce the risk of blood clots. Doctors indicate that anyone who travels for more than 4 hours is at risk of blood clots – regardless of the mode of transport.
Drink more fluids. The best choice is plain still water. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol.
If you have additional risk factors – a history of thrombosis, recent surgery, pregnancy, cancer, taking hormonal medications – be sure to consult a doctor.
Should pregnant women give up travel?
"The general recommendation is to fly after the 18th week of pregnancy. Because there is a very high risk of miscarriage and threats to pregnancy in the first trimester. So, after the 18th week and up to the 32nd," explained Alona Akimova, an obstetrician-gynecologist and perinatal psychologist at the Perinatal Center of Kyiv, in a comment to UNN.
Many airlines do not take women on board after the 32nd week of pregnancy.
"Therefore, if you feel well, if you generally tolerate flights normally, and you have a physiologically wonderful pregnancy without threats, please, you can use airlines," the doctor explained.
The doctor emphasizes that this advice applies to women with a normal course of pregnancy.
In addition, specialists also recommend that pregnant women move more, maintain a drinking regimen, and use compression stockings.
ATTENTION! This material is for informational purposes only. If you are concerned about health problems, consult a doctor.