Sometimes a simple thing such as taking time off before your planned vacation to chalk out the possible health hazards and remedies could save you a lot of trouble. Here are a few more risks you must add to your check list...

Fungal infection-

Fungal infections occur more commonly in hot weather and are usually found on the scalp, between the toes or fingers, in the groin and on the body(ringworm). You get ringworm from infected animals or by walking on damp areas such as shower floors. To prevent fungal infections wear loose, comfortable clothes, avoid artificial fibres, wash frequently and dry carefully.

Hypothermia-

Too much cold is just as dangerous as too much heat, particularly if it leads to hypothermia. If you are trekking at high altitudes or simply taking a long bus trip over mountains, particularly at night, be prepared. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it and the core temperature of the body fails.

Motion Sickness

Eating lightly before and during a trip will reduce the chances of motion sickness. If you are prone to motion sickness try to find a place that minimises disturbances.- near the wings on aircraft, close to midships on boats, near the centre on buses. Fresh air usually helps; reading and cigarette smoke don't. Ginger and peppermint are natural preventatives.

Jet Lag-

The bags are packed and then you hop on a flight of over 18 hours duration, to the other side of earth, with transfers increasing the travel time to what feels like two days. You arrive at your destination not quite at your best, headache, nauseous, tired, dazed, somewhat confused and unable to stay awake yet unable to sleep. You've even lost your appetite for all ; that interesting food. That's jet lag, the curse of the 'time' traveller.

Travel Stress

Pre-travel parties, packing, separation from family and loss of security all take their toll. the flight itself creates many stressors such as dehydration, poor sleep, alcohol intake and long periods of inactivity. Once at the destination there are language, diet and climate stressors.

Diarrhea

Contrary to what most people think, the major cause of this condition is change. Whether to a hotter temperature or to a colder on. Most diarrhoeal attacks are self-limiting and clear up in a few days.

Random Tip - What if you havn't packed your exercise clothes, or forgot to check out the fitness facilities. Or what if its raining? Here are some tricks you can do withing your hotel:

. Take the stairs instead of the lift. And use the stairs for a small steps session.

. Use the telephone directory or water bottles as weights.

. Chairs, doorways and bed frames can help you with push-ups, sit-ups, squats and tricep dips.

Must Read: - Workouts for Biceps and Triceps at http://www.weightloss-health.com/arm_muscle_building.htm