Managing Prescriptions & Health Challenges in Festive Season in Brazil

As health professionals, we often see a surge in health issues during the festive months of December, January and February in Brazil. This time, characterized by school holidays, Christmas, New Year's breaks, Carnival, and the sweltering summer heat, brings unique challenges to maintaining health and accessing medical care. This article aims to guide you through managing your health during this hectic season, focusing on prescription medication continuity, understanding foodborne illnesses, heat related and seasonal diseases and overall wellbeing.

In Brazil, the main school holidays fall in December and January, unlike Europe where they occur in September. This period coincides with major holidays like Christmas and New Year's, along with the summer season. Imagine Santa Claus working in the sweltering heat of Brazil! This unique combination affects various aspects of daily life, including access to healthcare services.

The festive season in Brazil, with its school holidays and celebrations, leads to a significant reduction in the availability of medical consultations and health services in both public and private sectors. As noted in a MedPlus article, this can create difficulties in accessing necessary healthcare during these months.

If you rely on prescription-only drugs and haven't planned your medication supply for the holiday season, you may face challenges in accessing these prescriptions, especially for English-speaking visitors or expats. It's crucial not to interrupt without planning the use of medications like antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, opioids, and anti-epilepsy drugs. Abrupt cessation can cause withdrawal symptoms and increase the risk of adverse health events. Gradual reduction, if recommended, allows your body to adjust properly, minimizing risks.

Accessing Medication with Ease

My Brazilian Doctor provides a solution to this seasonal challenge. Through our platform, you can access video consultations for a wide range of conditions with English-speaking doctor and receive an electronic prescription for your medication. If your medication requires a special paper prescription, our team can mail it to your location, usually arriving within 1-2 days. This service ensures you can access your medication at any pharmacy in Brazil without interruption or withdrawls.

During the festive period, it's also essential to be mindful of other health risks:

• Heat-Related Illnesses: Be cautious of sunburn, dehydration, and heat waves. Stay hydrated and use sun protection.
• Foodborne Illnesses: Pay attention to food poisoning symptoms and avoid food spoilage, especially with meat, dairy, and seafood. Understand how to stop diarrhea and seek appropriate diarrhea treatment if needed.
• Seasonal Diseases: During the festive period, it's crucial to be aware of seasonal diseases like Dengue, a mosquito-borne illness causing fever, headaches, and muscle pain, which can be potentially serious. To protect your health, take steps to prevent mosquito bites and seek medical help if you experience symptoms.
• Alcohol Consumption: Moderate your intake to avoid direct health impacts and increased vulnerability.
• Safety Concerns: Be aware of increased criminal activity also frequent during this period, including pickpocketing, and be cautious when using your mobile phone in public spaces.

The Brazilian holiday season brings unique challenges to health and wellbeing. By planning ahead, especially regarding prescription medications, and being aware of the risks associated with the festive period, you can ensure a healthier and more enjoyable experience. Remember, My Brazilian Doctor is here to support you in maintaining your health and wellbeing during this vibrant yet potentially challenging time.