Summer has arrived, and many British Columbians are gearing up for road trips.
Whether it's a visit to the cottage, a camping adventure, or a beach vacation, these summer excursions often mean leaving behind their usual healthcare providers.
Health challenges usually don’t wait for you to return from vacation, and as a result, popular travel spots experience a summer surge of vacationers who often clog local ERs and walk-ins with their ailments.
That’s when pharmacists can help.
We are a quick and convenient option to assess and treat a wide range of minor ailments and healthcare needs, and there’s almost always a pharmacy close by so we can help keep your summer fun on track. Any pharmacy in British Columbia can provide these services, and, in some communities, you can even visit a Pharmacy Care Clinic.
Here, you can be treated in a familiar clinic setting with a valid health card at no cost so you can get back to enjoying your vacation.
As your local pharmacist in Port Coquitlam, here are some ways we can help keep your summertime fun going all season long.
Forgot your meds? Fret not
In the frenzy of packing for a much-anticipated trip, it's easy to overlook essential items like your prescription medicines.
This common mishap can make even a weekend getaway stressful. A quick visit to your local pharmacy can often set things right and save your vacation from unintended interruptions. All you need to refill your prescription is the prescribing pharmacy’s contact information.
From there, the local pharmacist will do a quick assessment, and provided there are no concerns, they can refill your prescription to cover you while you are away.
It’s as simple as that.
Beat the heat
With summer adventures underway, many of us spend more time outdoors hitting the trails, beaches, and patios.
However, it’s important to remember that effects of prolonged exposure to the sun. Pharmacists play a crucial role in supporting individuals at risk of dehydration, sunburn or even heat stroke, especially during the hot summer months.
We can offer guidance on choosing the right sunscreen based on your skin type and destination UV index, appropriate hydration strategies and electrolyte supplements to prevent dehydration and over-the-counter treatments like aloe vera gel or hydrocortisone cream to soothe and heal sun-damaged skin. We can also provide valuable advice on recognizing the early signs of heat stroke, such as confusion, profuse sweating, headache and rapid heartbeat.
Additionally, we can suggest first-aid measures in case of mild symptoms, ensuring prompt and effective care.
Jet-set essentials
Pharmacists are indispensable resources when it comes to preparing for travel adventures that can provide expert recommendations for essential travel supplies, ensuring you're well-equipped for any situation.
Did you know that pharmacists can customize first aid kits suitable to your destination and activities, including items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and blister treatments?
Or, for those that are planning on going further from home and planning to explore exotic cuisines?
We can advise on medications to manage traveller's diarrhea and provide tips for staying hydrated. Concerned about sunburns or skin protection? Pharmacists offer guidance on choosing the right sunscreen based on your skin type and destination UV index. We can also recommend pain relievers like ibuprofen for headaches or muscle soreness after long flights or active days.
Next time you’re dealing with a summertime ailment, skip the ER line and head to your local pharmacy. From pesky insect bites to unexpected health hiccups, pharmacists are a qualified and accessible option when you are away from home.
With expert advice, walk-in clinic options at Pharmacy Care Clinics, and extended hours, we’re a convenient healthcare provider to consult on the go so you can make the most of your summer adventures worry-free.
Kiran Basran is a pharmacist and owner of your local Shoppers Drug Mart in Port Coquitlam.
