The healthy skies

We are approaching that time of year when we fly the friendly skies. Whether back to college or off to Grandma’s, let’s talk about how to get there happy and healthy. As long as there are no contra indications, I recommend the following regimen to keep well.

First, five to seven days before you fly, start taking Vitamin C (500mg a day) to boost your immune system and stop a cold before it starts. Drink plenty of fluids and try to get some sleep.

Once you make it through the airport, waterless hand sanitizers can reduce the number of germs you touch, but I recommend a moisturizer after using the wash. Sometime the wash overly dries the skin, creating cracks and reducing your skin’s natural defense. Try to find the hand towel wipes and a small bottle of lotion; airport security just might nab the bigger bottles.

If you have prescription medications, carry them in the bottle so security can see what they are and who prescribed them. If you need to take any needles or medical devices, check http://www.tsa.gov to find out what you need to get through security. Usually it’s a doctor’s note, but in the case of oxygen tanks it can require some extra preparation.

Now you’ve made it to your seat and are ready for the long flight. To lessen the chance of a blood clot, get up and walk every hour or so. If this is not possible, do isometric calf exercises by tightening them and relaxing them. This should assist in pushing the blood back up to the heart.

If you have any concerns about flying, make an appointment to discuss them with your primary doctor. Have a safe flight.

If you have any ideas for next week’s article, drop by my office and let me know.

Steven J. Schutz, a Certified Physician’s Assistant, owns Temecula 24-hour Urgent Care. For information, call (951) 308-4451.