Eid al-Fitr homecoming is a tradition in which people return to their hometowns to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. Homecoming usually involves a long journey from the city of residence to the hometown.
Several illnesses commonly affect travelers during their long journeys. It is important to know what illnesses might be encountered during Eid al-Fitr homecoming so that you can take appropriate precautions to avoid illness and injury during the trip.
The most common disease during homecoming
Motion Sickness
Motion sickness, also known as travel sickness, is a condition in which the brain receives conflicting signals from the eyes and the vestibular system (which controls body balance). This condition is extremely common during homecoming travel.
During long-distance travel, the body constantly moves and changes positions. As a result, you might experience symptoms like:
- Cold sweats
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Difficulty concentrating
- Increased saliva indicates nausea and vomiting
- Pale skin
- Irregular breathing
In most cases, motion sickness can be treated with anti-motion sickness medication. However, it is recommended that you consult with a doctor before taking this medication, especially if you have any health conditions or are between the ages of 2 and 12.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea during homecoming is very likely caused by contaminated food or drinks. Diarrhea can occur during travel or after arrival at the destination.
Most diarrhea improves within 1-2 days of no treatment and completely recovers within a week. However, if your diarrhea lasts more than two days or is accompanied by severe abdominal pain, a fever of 39 degrees Celsius or higher, bleeding during bowel movements, or signs of dehydration, you should see a doctor.
Influenzae
The flu, also known as influenza, is an infection of the respiratory tract, including the nose, throat, and lungs. People with weakened immune systems or who have been traveling for a long time are more likely to get the flu.
The flu is typically accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Muscles ache
- Chills or sweating
- Headache
- Dry cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue and weakness
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Pain behind your eyes
- Vomiting and diarrhea (these symptoms are more common in children)
To reduce the risk of contracting the flu during homecoming, get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet, and wash your hands frequently.
Constipation
Constipation is characterized by symptoms such as difficulty passing stools, irregular bowel movements, hard or very small stools, and bloating. Constipation is another issue that may arise while traveling back home.
Constipation is commonly caused by changes in activity, a lack of fluids or fiber, inactivity, or stress while traveling. Constipation can be managed by drinking plenty of fluids, drinking warm water first thing in the morning, getting enough fiber from fruits and vegetables, and staying active and exercising.
How to prevent diseases during homecoming travel
The diseases that are commonly encountered during homecoming travel are typically not dangerous, but they can disrupt your homecoming festivities. Do the following to avoid getting sick during homecoming travel:
- Wash your hands frequently with clean water and soap
- Select a safe and comfortable vehicle
- Choose safe food and drinks that are not at risk of contamination
- Eat a balanced and nutritious diet
- Stay hydrated throughout the journey
- Get enough rest before the trip
If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.
Looking for more information about other diseases? Click here!
- dr. Monica Salim
Cleveland Clinic (2021). Motion Sickness. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/12782-motion-sickness
Mayo Clinic (2021). Traveler's diarrhea. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/travelers-diarrhea/symptoms-causes/syc-20352182
Mayo Clinic (2022). Influenza (flu). Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/symptoms-causes/syc-20351719
WebMD (2022). What Is Constipation?. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/digestive-diseases-constipation
CDC (2021). Travelers' Health. Available from: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/health-during-trip