As the weather warms up, your mind may keep wandering to visions of relaxing on a sandy beach or lounging beside a crystal clear lake. March is known as the time to take a Spring Break getaway, even if you graduated college decades ago. It’s the perfect way to get a reprieve from the long winter and get a break from the busy first quarter at work.
A little earlier this year we shared winter vacation tips for people with TMD, and now we’re adding to that advice by packing pointers specifically for Spring Break vacations.
4 Must Have Spring Break Items for People With TMD
Leading publications like Travel + Leisure and The Travel Channel make note of the top spring break destinations every year. Their research has made one thing clear – people prefer fun in the sun during Spring Break. From beaches to water parks to camping, many families, couples and singles are looking to warm up.
Transitioning from your cool hometown to a sunny vacation spot requires strategic packing. What you’ll need primarily depends on where you plan to go, but the following items should be in your suitcase no matter where you vacation.
Antihistamines – Spring is allergy season almost anywhere you go. If your allergies act up this can cause a domino effect that leads to TMJ pain. Even if you aren’t normally affected by allergens, it’s a good idea to have antihistamines on hand because you may be exposed to new pollen, air pollutants, etc. when traveling someplace you’ve never visited before.
Earplugs – There’s a good chance that you’ll end up taking a dip in the ocean, a lake or a pool at some point during your Spring Break vacation. That’s why a good pair of earplugs should be included in your bag. Because the temporomandibular joint is connected to the ear canal, earaches and swelling in the ear canal can trigger TMJ flare-ups. Keeping water out of your ears can help you avoid these issues.
Sunblock – Sunblock is vital for your skin’s health, but it can also help keep TMD in check. A bad sunburn will make the remainder of your vacation miserable, and if your skin swells it will tighten, adding pressure to the affected areas. Sunburns also make your immune system work overtime, because it reacts to the dying skin cells.
Jacket/Sweater – During spring it’s common to have warm days and cool nights. Feeling cold is never good for someone with TMD, because it causes muscles to tense up and tighten. Packing a few sweaters or a light jacket will ensure that you’re comfortable all day long.
Before taking your Spring Break trip it’s a good idea to schedule a visit with the dentist. At MedCenter TMJ, we’ll examine your current symptoms and provide specific TMJ treatment that can help minimize the symptoms while you’re on vacation. Call today or use the online form to schedule an appointment!
Original source: https://www.medcentertmj.com/healthy-living/pack-spring-break-vacation/