As I mentioned in my first article, research is one of the most important things that you need to do to prepare. For example, if you have high blood pressure, you need to carefully consider whether you'll be able to live in the mountains. Blood pressure generally goes up in higher altitudes. Do you have arthritis? Be careful of damp climates, such as tropics and some seashores. Do you have allergies to mold? Once again, beware of the tropics. Some mountain areas are dry, others are cold and damp. The latter ones may wreak havoc on your allergies. Is your skin sensitive to sunlight? In high altitudes, and/or areas between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn you'll have to remember to use sunblock, and maybe a wide-brimmed hat. Are you an asthmatic? Consider staying away from high pollution, high-altitude areas. And, check to see if there are any active volcanoes around. You don't want to have to worry about breathing in ash unexpectedly!
What about special facilities? Do you need a chiropractor regularly? Are you under the treatment of an acupuncturist? (Of course, you might be going to where acupuncture is a common treatment!) What about physical therapy? There may not be any spas where you live, or aerobic classes. Don't' forget to bring your own aerobic videos! (If you'll have a VCR.) Will you need to worry about wheelchair facilities?
There's an excellent web site for travelers from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Its section on travelers' health covers issues such as destinations, diseases, vaccinations, outbreaks and special needs, such as pregnancy and breast-feeding. (www.cdc.com/travel/)
One very important item; please don't forget your medicines! Take a good supply along. I'm not saying that you have to take along a year's supply of medication, but you don't want to run out, either. If you can, please try to find out if your new country has relatively easy access to your needed medicine. Perhaps the organization that you'll be associated with can help you out. Should you go for national remedies, or should you only use the one that you're used to? That'll depend on your condition and what your doctor says. It's easier going from First World country to First World country, than First World to Third World country. Investigate to the best of your ability.
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