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Expat Illnesses: How to Survive Your First 6 Months in Paradise

Your new expat life is going to involve a lot of adjustments, on many levels, during the first six months of living in paradise: social, mental and, yes, physical. Knowing some basic health tips can make living in your tropical retreat much less stressful.

Many Latin American countries have excellent health care options and insurance programs that equal those in the U.S. and are far less expensive. However, there are still many areas where modern medical access is not always immediately available. Learning common sense approaches on adapting to your new environment can make living healthy an easy and enjoyable task.

health tips

Nick Kenrick

Health Concerns in a Tropical Paradise

For all the benefits of living in an environment where life moves slower, nature is on full display, and the opportunities for rediscovery are nearly boundless, being aware of potential health problems is an important part of immersing in the new world you have chosen.  There are a number of physical conditions you must look out for.

Skin Problems

Perhaps the most common medical issues faced by newly arrived expats to the tropics are those involving the skin.

  • Insect Bites – Insects are everywhere, especially in more rural settings. Using a good insect repellent (one with DEET) is your best defense. Treating bites is easy; using anti-itch medications, such as Benadryl, can clear things up in a few days.
  • Sunburn and Heat Rashes – Playing in the tropical sun for extended periods can have unintended consequences. Applying a sunblock/sunscreen can cut down on your risk of burning. If a heat rash develops, keeping the skin clean and dry, and staying cool.  This should resolve the itchiness and redness. Fortunately, as you adapt to living in paradise, your skin will also develop a greater tolerance to this new environment.
  • Other Eczemas – Other skin conditions may be the result of fungal or bacterial infections. Keeping your skin and clothing dry and clean can do wonders for reducing the risk of these occurring. If a problem arises (rash, itchiness, or dry, scaly patches), using topical anti-fungal medications is the best treatment. If things don’t seem to be getting better, a doctor should be consulted.
  • Heat and Sun-Related Illnesses – Heat stroke and sun stroke are often not thought of until they appear in the form of light-headedness and disorientation. Remembering that you are living in a tropical climate and, depending on which country, much closer to the Equator is important. Allow yourself to adapt physically, as well as mentally; all things in moderation.

Stomach Disorders

A close second on the list of most common medical problems for new expats involve the stomach and digestive tract.

  • Travelers’ Diarrhea – Eating new foods and drinking water from unknown sources is the principal cause of this all-too common condition. Making certain that food is properly cleaned and water is from a disinfected source (or bottled) are good preventative measures. If this does happen to you, make certain to stay hydrated and eat lightly; things should clear up in a few days.
  • Giardiasis and Schistosomiasis – Less well known, these two ailments also impact the digestive tract, urinary tract, and kidneys. The presence of blood in the urine or stool, along with diarrhea and cramps, are primary symptoms. The best way to avoid them is to maintain good hygien,e as well as proper food and water preparation/sterilization.
  • Cholera – Drinking contaminated water or eating raw/uncooked seafood (think ceviche) are the primary causes of this illness. Fortunately, modern antibiotics and rehydration can combat and ultimately defeat this disease.

Less Common, More Serious Conditions

While not as common, there are a number of serious conditions that expats should be aware of.

  • Malaria, Yellow Fever, Dengue Fever – This group of illnesses, though less common, still exists throughout much of Latin America. Marked by high fevers, aches, and general weakness, these ailments are most commonly spread by mosquitoes. Using insect repellent and mosquito netting, when in more wooded or jungle areas, are ways to minimize the exposure risk. For some of these illnesses, vaccinations are available and should be considered before the move.
  • Hepatitis A-E – These are blood based illnesses that affect the liver and usually involve some kind of transmission through exchange of bodily fluids; hepatitis A, however, can be contracted through contaminated food.  There are vaccinations, but only for types A and B.
health tips

Robert Thomson

Health Tips to Consider Before You Go

While no one can truly prepare for the unexpected events in life, there are a number of things an expat can do before arriving in their Latin American home which can be beneficial in dealing with medical situations that may arise.

Stock Up on Prescription Medications

If you, or a family member, are taking regularly prescribed drugs, make certain that all of the prescriptions are filled – preferably for 90 days or more. You may want to speak to your medical provider on options for receiving renewals if you are out of the country.

You may also want to do some online research into what alternative or generic medicines may be available in your new location. Many countries sell prescription drugs over the counter without your needing to see a physician; while the names of the drugs may be unfamiliar, the actual formulas can be identical to those you may already be using.

See Your Doctor, Get Examined, Get Vaccinated

Getting your annual examination done before leaving the country is a great, common-sense step to identifying any potential health issues. Getting current on all vaccinations should also be high on that list; many Latin American countries have the potential for harmful diseases, particularly in more rural areas, which can be prevented through vaccination.

Does Your Insurance Cover You Outside the U.S.?

Most health insurance companies have limits on coverage outside the U.S. Additionally, finding providers in your new home who would accept foreign insurance can be extremely difficult. Looking into health insurance in your new country and speaking with your former carrier can give you insight on how to proceed.

Since out-of-pocket expenses for medical services is much less than in the States, (and possibly less than an insurance premium), considering just paying for care, when needed, might be the best budgetary option. Check on social media to see what others who have gone before have to say on this topic.

Stock Up on Your Over-The-Counter Supplies

Finding things like sinus and allergy pills, aspirin and other pain medications, antacids, or topical skin medications for insect bites and sunburn, can be difficult when you first settle in. Make sure that you bring plenty of these types of products with you to help you manage these situations until you learn where their local equivalents can be purchased.

health tips

Autentico Adventures

Covering Your Bases

Preparing for and adapting to the life-changing experience of becoming an expat can be much easier by using basic common sense.  Here are some simple tips to help you adjust.

Remember Where You Are

There is going to be a period of adjustment to your new environment. Don’t expect your body to immediately become comfortable to newer foods and newer temperatures. Keep this simple truth in mind and allow yourself time to settle into expat life; slower is better.

Have a Fallback Plan

Although they probably won’t be needed, make certain that you have contact numbers for the U.S. consulate/embassy in the event that a serious medical situation develops. Consular officials can be helpful to arrange transportation back to the States in a worst case scenario.

Make a list of all medical conditions and medicines that you are taking and keep them with your passport. A list of emergency contacts (friends/family) should also be included. This information can be useful in emergency situations.

Fulfilling your Latin American dreams can be the most profound life choice you can make. Knowing that you can make this transition and keep healthy at the same time will only enhance the experience.

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