Ever been on a fabulous dream cruise vacation only to realize you’re prey to seasickness, dampening the high spirits? “How to Manage Seasickness and Other Health Concerns on a Cruise” is tailor-made for you. This insightful guide walks you through adapted solutions for tackling not just seasickness but multiple potential health issues on a cruise. By getting your hands on this, you’re arming yourself against discomfort and arming yourself with heightened enjoyment for your next cruise. Let’s explore the world, fearlessly sailing the seas while keeping health woes firmly docked at bay.
Understanding Seasickness
Getting to grips with the concept of seasickness is fundamental for any cruise travel preparations. Seasickness is a common issue faced by travellers venturing on ocean-bound or sea-going voyages, but knowing what it is and how it manifests can put you in a better position to handle it.
Defining seasickness
Simply put, seasickness is a form of motion sickness that specifically occurs while at sea. It’s your body’s response to the unfamiliar motion of a boat or ship. You might have experienced a similar form of motion sickness in a car, on a plane or while riding a roller-coaster, but seasickness presents its own unique challenges given the constant swaying of a ship on water.
Causes of seasickness
Seasickness is fundamentally caused by a disconnect between what your eyes see and what your inner ear, the part of your body responsible for balance, perceives. When the ship rolls with the waves but your eyes see a static cabin, confusion sets in and your body reacts with the symptoms of seasickness.
Common symptoms of seasickness
Seasickness typically presents with a range of symptoms. These can include a general feeling of being unwell, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, sweating, and a sense of disorientation. It’s worth noting these symptoms can vary from slightly uncomfortable to extremely debilitating.
Preventing Seasickness
Seasickness isn’t inevitable and there are various ways to prevent it. Here are a few strategies.
Choosing the right cabin
Your choice of cabin can play a significant role in preventing seasickness. Opting for a cabin in the middle of the ship, as well as on a lower deck, can provide stability, as these areas experience less motion.
Ginger and other natural remedies
Natural remedies like ginger, in the form of candies, cookies or tea, can be used to combat nausea associated with seasickness. Other herbal remedies like peppermint and chamomile also have been known to soothe upset stomachs.
Over-the-counter medications
Over-the-counter medications like Dramamine and Bonine can help prevent and treat seasickness. It is advisable to consider taking these drugs before your cruise, as they work best when taken before you start to feel sick.
Prescription medicines
In severe cases, prescription medications might be necessary. These include patches and pills that prevent the symptoms of seasickness.
Acupressure and other alternative treatments
Acupressure wristbands and bracelets are another option you can try. Based on the principles of acupressure, these bands can help you manage the symptoms of seasickness through the application of pressure on certain points of your body.
Managing Seasickness Once It Occurs
Even with preventive measures in place, seasickness might occur. Here are ways to manage it.
Staying on deck
If you’re feeling seasick, try to stay outside on the deck. The fresh air, coupled with focusing on a fixed point on the horizon, can help your body reorient and reduce nausea.
Avoiding certain activities and foods
To manage seasickness, it’s best to avoid alcohol, greasy foods, and acidic foods and drinks. Avoid reading, using electronic devices and participating in activities that require you to focus on moving objects.
Hydrating and resting
Drink plenty of water to stay well-hydrated and rest as much as possible to prevent aggravating your symptoms.
Seeking medical help onboard
Despite your best efforts, if seasickness gets severe, it’s important to seek help from the onboard medical professionals. They can provide medication and treatment to help alleviate your symptoms.
Dealing with Other Common Health Issues on Cruises
While seasickness is a common concern, there are other health issues that might arise during a cruise.
Gastrointestinal problems and foodborne illnesses
Because of the shared spaces and meals onboard, stomach bugs and foodborne illnesses can spread. Practicing good hygiene, like frequent hand-washing, can help prevent these.
Dehydration and heat exhaustion
Dehydration and heat exhaustion can occur due to hot weather or not drinking enough fluids. To avoid this, always carry a water bottle and drink plenty. Avoid excessive alcohol as it dehydrates you.
Respiration issues
The change in environment can sometimes lead to respiratory issues such as allergies, asthma, or difficulty breathing, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions. Keeping necessary medicines handy and practising deep breathing exercises can help.
Accidents and injuries
Wet and slippery decks can also lead to accidents or injuries on a cruise ship. Always heed safety instructions to avoid unfortunate incidents.
Preventing Dehydration and Heat Exhaustion
Dehydration and heat exhaustion can be life-threatening if not managed properly. Here are some measures to prevent them.
Drinking plenty of water
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. You can carry a refillable water bottle to make sure you always have water at hand.
Staying in the shade during peak sun hours
Overexposure to the sun can lead to heat exhaustion. Consider staying in the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.
Wearing light clothing and a hat
Wear light, breathable clothing and don a sun hat to protect yourself from the intense heat.
Listening to your body and taking rest breaks
Lastly, it’s important to listen to your body. If it’s telling you to slow down and take a break, then that’s exactly what you should do. Don’t overdo it — it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Avoiding Respiratory Problems
Breathing issues can put a real damper on your cruise experience. Here’s how to avoid them.
Avoiding allergens and irritants
Maintain a clean surrounding free of allergens, and always remember to carry any necessary medications for allergies or conditions such as asthma.
Managing pre-existing respiratory conditions
If you have a pre-existing respiratory condition, be sure to take your medications as prescribed, avoid triggers, and consider bringing a portable nebuliser if applicable.
Practicing good hygiene
Practicing good hygiene — washing hands frequently, avoiding close contact with those who are sick, and covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze — can significantly reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
Staying active to keep lungs healthy
Including some light physical activity in your daily routine can help maintain lung health. Walking on the deck or participating in onboard activities can be a good option.
Preventing Accidents and Injuries
Safety should be a priority while on a cruise. Here are some ways to prevent accidents and injuries.
Using non-slip footwear
Non-slip footwear can help prevent accidents on slippery decks or floors. Select shoes that provide good traction.
Being aware of the wet and slippery surfaces
Be mindful of wet and slippery surfaces, especially around the pool or in the bathrooms. Use handrails where provided and proceed with caution.
Using railings and handles
Safety railings and handles are there for a reason. Make good use of them particularly in rough seas or when traversing stairs onboard.
Participating safely in cruise activities
Always follow safety instructions for any onboard activities or shore excursions. Don’t take unnecessary risks just for an adrenaline rush.
Handling Dietary Restrictions and Allergies
Managing dietary restrictions can be a bit challenging on a cruise ship, but it’s definitely doable
Communicating your needs before the trip
Inform the cruise line about your dietary restrictions before your trip. Most cruise lines will accommodate to different dietary needs.
Carrying necessary medications
Carry any necessary medications with you at all times. This includes EpiPens for severe allergic reactions or any prescribed medications for chronic conditions.
Making smart food choices onboard
Avoid foods that you are allergic to and be mindful of potential cross-contamination. Opt for fruits, vegetables, and other foods that are generally safe for you.
Communicating with Cruise Medical Staff
When you don’t feel well, knowing how to access available medical services is crucial.
When to seek help
If you’re feeling unwell or have been in an accident, seek medical help immediately. Don’t downplay your symptoms — it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Information to provide
When visiting the onboard medical centre, provide all the necessary information about your symptoms and medical history. This will help professionals diagnose and treat you effectively.
Getting help in case of an emergency
The ship’s crew is trained to handle emergencies. If one arises, contact them and follow their instructions carefully.
Health Insurance and Planning
Before heading off on your cruise, arm yourself with all the necessary health information and make thoughtful planning decisions.
Understanding your health coverage
Know the limitations and coverage of your health insurance policy. Determine whether it covers overseas medical costs and emergency evacuations.
Buying travel insurance
Consider purchasing travel insurance that specifically covers you on a cruise. It can help you cover unexpected costs like medical bills or emergency evacuations.
Packing a travel health kit
Pack a basic health kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, seasickness medication, pain relievers, sunscreen and any prescription medications that you may need.
Knowing when to cancel or postpone your trip
And finally, be prepared to cancel or postpone your trip if you’re not feeling well before you set sail. It’s much better to be safe than risk making yourself even sicker.
Planning and preventative measures go a long way to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable cruise!