Despite countless scientific advancements in the medical field, there’s still a lot we don’t understand about what makes people receptive to sickness. However, those who plan to move may be especially at risk. If you plan to move, you need to prepare for more than just homesickness.
Have you ever noticed that you often get the sniffles after a move? Although many aspects of relocation cause excitement, some also cause sickness. Below you’ll find common causes for illness in connection with relocation. We’ll also address some basic ways to avoid sickness before, during, and after your move.
New Microbes
At any given time, environmental factors contribute to your health. When you relocate, your new surroundings definitely change, including exposure to new places, people, and microbes.
A geographically unfamiliar place might confuse your navigational abilities, and it also gives pause to your immune system. Unfortunately, the actual relocation may have already set you up for illness too.
Prevention: Stay up-to-date on your vaccinations, along with vitamin supplements. Drink plenty of fluids and get the proper amount of rest to promote a healthy immune system. Also, take time to de-stress and relax, even if it means a hot bath in the middle of everything. Make sure to also eat a healthy diet rich in fiber and nutrients.
Allergies
When you take items out of the attic and less-trafficked areas of your home, you stir up dust and other allergens. These irritants may already exist in your home, but they remained dormant until the hustle and bustle of the move.
Allergies irritate the sinuses and eyes. This irritation creates a perfect atmosphere for sinus infections. Consequently, people often mistake simple sinus irritation or asthma for the common cold.
Prevention: Change your filters ahead of time to promote healthy air supply and ventilation. Dust and vacuum before you begin to pack. If you know of personal allergies to dust mites, take medication before you begin to pack.
Cuts
When you move cardboard around, you can cut your hands and fingers on the rough edges. Even if you have a fairly shallow cut, it still could leave an opening for possible infection.
Amid the rush to pack and box-up items, many people forget a simple hand wash that would prevent unwanted infection and problems.
Prevention: It sounds simple, but wash your hands. Use sanitizer throughout the process, and seek antiseptic treatment and bandages for any cuts, scrapes, or lacerations.
Sick Building Syndrome
Much like the dust from your attic, other elements in a building can cause illness during a move as well. “Sick building syndrome” refers to poorly maintained structures that expose occupants to various irritants and toxins.
Chemicals, asbestos, radon, and mold all pose risks to occupants of old buildings. You also increase risk factors every time you move. Each jostle or bump could yield a leak or breakage in weak pipes.
Symptoms of sick building syndrome include throat irritation, dizziness or fatigue, headaches, and nausea.
Prevention: Get living spaces appraised and inspected before you make a purchase. Many local governments supply free radon test kits for public use. Also, make sure to check the basement and attic for signs of mold, rot, or decay.
Depression
Although not a result of microbial infection, depression affects people during and after relocations as well. Teens especially experience difficulty adjusting to new surroundings. Some may struggle to function without a familiar support system nearby.
Prevention: Maintain old friendships via video chat, phone calls, and emails. Try to help your family meet new people through community activities and social events. Work together to create your new support group.
If you take time to take care of yourself during your move, you’ll avoid sickness and fatigue. Use these prevention tips to stay happy and healthy.