Is it normal to get sick after international travel?


Is it normal to get sick after international travel? From flu-like symptoms to digestive tract upsets, feeling ill post-vacation affects up to 80 percent of returning travelers, says Dr. Ashima Oza, a primary care physician and an instructor in the Division of Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine.


Why do I get sinus infections after flying?

The dry air, low pressure, and the low amount of oxygen cause the immune system to weaken and can lead to inflamed sinus cavities. This, in addition to being confined in a small area with little airflow, makes it hard to avoid getting sinusitis from another sick passenger.


Can you get a fever after flying?

Fevers caused by infection are especially common in people who have traveled to developing countries or parts of the world where healthcare resources and sanitation are limited. Any international traveler who develops fever in the weeks after returning home should be evaluated.


What are the symptoms of travel sickness?

Symptoms can range from mild to serious, and can include:
  • dizziness.
  • generally feeling unwell and tired.
  • excessive production of saliva.
  • headache.
  • nausea, vomiting.
  • burping.
  • sweating.


Is it common to get a cold after traveling?

Many of us will pack our bags and enjoy a nice vacation this year, but some people will return home with more than just a souvenir. The most common health issues that people encounter after a trip include: Minor colds. Fevers.


What are the 4 most common travel illnesses?

Common travel-related illnesses include:
  • Diarrheal disease. Most travel-related diarrheal diseases are acquired by consuming contaminated water and food.
  • Hepatitis A. ...
  • Malaria. ...
  • Dengue fever. ...
  • Parasitic infections. ...
  • Tuberculosis. ...
  • Typhoid fever. ...
  • Yellow fever.


What is the most common illness during international travel?

Traveler's diarrhea (by far the most common risk since it affects up to 80% of international travelers based on the destination) Enterotoxic E. coli diarrhea. Malaria.


Can you get travel sickness after Travelling?

You may even be doing more or less physical activity than you normally do at home! These changes, especially sleep deprivation and alcohol consumption, can lead to a weakened immune system that can cause you to have flu-like symptoms after traveling.


Why do I feel weird after a long flight?

Think of it as a flying desert. Besides sleepiness, lack of fluid can make you confused or dizzy. Your head may throb. These are warning signals that your body needs attention.


Why do I feel dizzy 2 days after flying?

Disembarkment syndrome is a medical condition that may occur following a sustained motion event like an aircraft flight or cruise. It is a neurological condition that is normally diagnosed by a neurologist when the sufferer reports a persistent swaying, rocking, or bobbing sensation.


What is jet belly?

Jet belly: (noun) the bloated state in which your stomach inflates post-flight. Also, a very unpleasant feeling. May also make you look like you're 3 months pregnant. So how does one prevent this jet belly? Well, it all depends on what you eat on the plane.


Why do I get a sore throat after flying?

Planes also have very little humidity and the dry air can irritate the mucous membranes of the throat.