NSAIDs may not be available over the counter in some parts of the world, so be sure to bring an adequate supply of them and any prescription medications on any boat trip. If an acute gout attack occurs during travel, be especially careful when walking on a boat deck since the pain can severely limit one’s ability to move about safely. If a first-time attack is suspected, seek medical attention for a definitive diagnosis. Seek emergency medical care if pain becomes intolerable, the diagnosis is not definitive or a joint infection is possible.
HE ART DI SE ASE Travel may adversely affect individuals who have forms of heart disease that reduce their capacity for exercise and their ability to handle stress. There are numerous forms of heart disease, including congenital (present since birth) or acquired structural abnormalities, infectious or inflammatory conditions, ischemic heart disorders (that restrict the blood supply to various parts of the body) and serious rhythm abnormalities. All of these conditions can affect the heart’s ability to pump blood through the circulatory system and to oxygenate the body’s tissues and can raise the risk of a heart attack. Simply carrying your luggage at a brisk pace through a large airport may provoke a heart attack. People with known heart disease should consult their cardiologist before deciding to travel. Symptoms that might indicate a cardiac issue include shortness of breath, dizziness, gastrointestinal upset and pain in the chest, arm or jaw. If you experienc any of those symptoms, even if you’ve never been diagnosed with heart disease, see your doctor before going on a trip. The doctor may order certain diagnostic tests to see if you have a cardiac disorder. While in a remote location or even in a city far from home is not 119
