- The perspective of "travel medicine" is necessary for athletes.
For athletes preparing for international competitions and overseas expeditions, preparation is not limited to technique and tactics.
Time difference, climate, environmental differences, and the risk of infectious diseases,How to respond to “changes in the physical environment” that we are not aware of in our daily domestic activitiesis also an important factor in determining competitiveness.
At Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic, I am a sports doctor,Medical support with a travel medicine perspectiveWe provide the following services.
In this issue, we will introduce the knowledge that athletes need in order to “perform their best on the field trip.
1. Jet Lag Management
Jet Lag" is the most common problem that athletes suffer from during overseas expeditions.
This isPhysical disorders caused by discrepancies between the body's internal clock (circadian rhythm) and local timeThe following symptoms are seen in
- Fatigue, drowsiness, poor concentration
- Decreased sleep quality and nocturnal awakenings
- Gastrointestinal disorders, anorexia
- Disturbance of hormonal secretion rhythm (decreased performance)
■ Key Measures:
- Gradually adjust bedtime and wake-up time 2-3 days prior to travelbe just about to
- As much as possible after arrival.Early exposure to sunlight resets the body's internal clock
- Melatonin (hormonal aid) may be utilized (*under medical supervision)
- Hydration, eye mask, and earphone use on boardCreate a sleeping environment with
- If possible,Practice times adjusted to match match schedulesbe just about to
2. Countermeasures against infectious diseases: Prevention is directly related to “maintaining competence.
In an unfamiliar place,Greatly increased risk of colds, gastroenteritis, and other infectious diseasesI will do so.
Especially the ill health caused by differences in food, water, and climate,Decline in conditions just before the tournamentThis invites the
■ Common infections and health problems:
- Traveler's diarrhea (due to differences in food and water)
- Influenza and COVID-19 (note the prevalence in the destination country)
- Dengue fever, malaria, hepatitis A, typhoid fever, etc. (depending on region)
■ Key points of prevention:
- As a rule, avoid raw water, raw food, and stall food (also beware of ice and cut fruits)
- Wash hands and disinfect with alcohol frequently
- Confirm required vaccinations (hepatitis A, yellow fever, tetanus, etc.) prior to travel
- Carry gastrointestinal medicines, antipyretic analgesics, intestinal preparations, etc.
- It is also important to have overseas insurance and understand local medical facilities.
The clinic will provide, as neededVaccination for overseas travel, provision of information on infectious diseases, and issuance of English-language medical certificatesWe also provide services such as
*Please note that it is difficult to inoculate patients on the same day of their visit.
3. compatibility of drugs and anti-doping
If you wish to bring your own regular medicine in case you feel unwell at your destination,Check for the presence of doping-prohibited substancesis required.
Some cold medicines, painkillers, stomach medicines, and herbal medicines,Ingredients that would be a violation if used easily by competitors.may also be included.
■ The Clinic's response:
- According to the level of competitionDrug check (in accordance with JADA/WADA list)
- as necessaryTherapeutic Use Exception (TUE) application support
- Suggest alternative candidates for over-the-counter drugs
4. beware of heat stroke and cold injury
Depending on the expedition,Extremely hot, humid, dry, or cold climatesetc., and must perform in an environment that is completely different from that of Japan.
- High-temperature areas: Hydration and salt replacement, cooling goods, sunstroke countermeasures
- Cold weather: protection against cold, up time, frostbite prevention
- High altitude (>2000 m): altitude sickness, acclimatization required several days in advance
The effects on thermoregulation and metabolism are also taken into account,Check body composition, water content, blood pressure and temperature before and after exercise, if necessaryWe also do
In addition, some athletic organizations may require medical checks prior to overseas travel.
Pre-departure medical checks can also be performed at our clinic, so please contact us if you need assistance.
Summary
Overseas expeditions are situations that test “overall physical strength, knowledge, and self-management” in an environment not experienced in everyday life.
That's why,Not only technical and tactical, but also medical preparation leads directly to performance.It is no exaggeration to say.
As a sports doctor, our clinic provides each athlete with advice on physical condition, infection control, jet lag, and even medication,Supporting the creation of a safe and secure expedition environmentThe company is doing so.
I'm about to embark on an overseas expedition, but I'm not sure how well prepared I'll be."
I'd like some guidance on how to stay in shape on the expedition."
If so, please contact us.