Traveling on a cruise is a unique experience that combines leisure, culture, and relaxation in a dynamic and shared environment. Cruises are extremely safe, but as with all travel, it's best to be prepared to prevent any potential risks. Quirónprevención, experts in occupational health and safety, emphasize the importance of planning your trip in advance and knowing how to react to the most common incidents that can occur while away from home.
Javier Doñas Beleña, a nurse at Quirónprevención, explains that “travel creates what we call a perfect storm for health: travelers alter their routines, modify sleep schedules, change eating habits, and may even stop taking their usual medication. All of this, combined with travel stress and jet lag, can weaken the immune system and increase the likelihood of medical incidents.”
Respiratory infections can occasionally occur while traveling, as well as some intestinal problems related to changes in diet and hygiene habits. Motion sickness can affect a traveler's comfort and safety, while falls and bumps, although not serious, are common, especially in wet or slippery areas.
Knowing the basics of first aid can make your experience easier. For cuts and wounds, Doñas Beleña recommends washing with soap and water, disinfecting, applying pressure if bleeding, and covering with a sterile dressing. “If the wound is deep or the bleeding doesn't stop, it would be advisable to seek medical attention,” emphasizes this specialist from Quirónprevención, a company that has collaborated for years with the Royal Spanish Sailing Federation (RFEV) as its Official Medical Prevention Service. In case of falls or blows, immediate attention is essential. Loss of consciousness, confusion, vomiting, intense pain, or inability to move a limb are warning signs that require professional assistance without delay, either on board at the ship's medical facilities or in the town you are visiting if you are on an excursion.
Seasickness and how to prevent it
Motion sickness is one of the most feared problems, although it's not serious. It occurs due to a conflict between visual signals and sensations from the inner ear: the brain perceives movement that the eyes don't see, or vice versa. "Prevention is key," says Doñas Beleña. "Choosing cabins on lower decks and in the center of the ship helps reduce the perceived motion. Also, looking at the horizon recalibrates the brain and reduces seasickness."
As for treatments, dimenhydrinate—known as Dramamine—is effective, especially if taken before the first symptoms appear. Ginger, in candy or tea form, also offers natural relief from nausea, not only for motion sickness but also for other forms of stomach upset. Conversely, alcohol consumption not only doesn't help but can worsen vertigo and dehydration, slowing recovery.
Trip preparation
It is essential that passengers who regularly take medication carry it in their hand luggage at all times, never in their checked baggage. This ensures immediate access to medication during the trip and in case of delays or lost luggage. Furthermore, it is recommended to bring enough medication for the entire duration of the cruise, including a few extra days, in case of unforeseen circumstances that extend the stay or make it difficult to refill medication.
For people with asthma, it is essential to travel with their maintenance medication and have additional rescue inhalers. In the event of an attack, it is crucial to maintain an upright posture and follow the inhaler instructions. If there is no improvement, the ship's medical team should be contacted.
Severe allergies require special attention. Although cruise ship medical centers are highly equipped and have adrenaline available, passengers with allergies should always carry their own auto-injectors, preferably two. “Medical staff are trained to administer adrenaline, but the speed of intervention also depends on the patient having their auto-injector available and knowing how to use it,” notes Doñas Beleña.
Treating a patient at sea is not the same as on land. While resources are comprehensive for emergencies, they are not a substitute for a hospital. Therefore, initial stabilization and coordination with coast guards, rescue services, or telemedicine are essential for all cruise lines, which have established protocols to address any medical situation that may arise during the voyage. “The priority is to keep the patient stable until reaching port or completing a safe evacuation,” explains the nurse.
Practical tips for a safe and healthy trip
Quirónprevención recommends several preventative measures that can make a difference:
- Pack your usual medication in your hand luggage, in sufficient quantity for the entire trip and a few extra days.
- Purchase travel insurance with health and evacuation coverage.
- Maintain frequent hand hygiene, especially before eating, available throughout the onboard environment.
- Moderate alcohol consumption and ensure proper hydration.
- Wear non-slip footwear in swimming pools and wet areas, both on board and on land.
- Inform the crew about relevant medical conditions, such as allergies, intolerances, or illnesses like asthma or diabetes.
- Know the location of the restroom and the cabin's emergency contact numbers.
- Seek medical evaluation for any persistent symptoms.
Traveling on a cruise is an unforgettable experience, but it's advisable to do so with a little preparation and caution. Keeping these tips from Quirónprevención in mind, along with the cooperation and guidance of the onboard team, allows you to enjoy your trip with peace of mind and security, minimizing risks and reacting appropriately to any incident. As Javier Doñas Beleña concludes, "Prevention is always the best strategy: an informed and prepared passenger is a safe passenger."
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