Wellness on the Go: A Doctor’s Guide to Traveling with Nilfar Karimova, M.D.

August 18, 2025

 

✈️ Traveling can be one of life’s greatest joys—but it can also take a toll on your body, especially as we get older. From jet lag and dehydration to circulation issues and digestive discomfort, long trips can leave us feeling less than our best.

Dr. Nilfar Karimova, an Internal Medicine physician at the JCHC Clinics, shares her insights and practical advice to help make your next journey healthier and more enjoyable.

When I was younger, I loved traveling, seeing new places, and meeting new people. I still remember the thrill of finding or seeing something memorable. With every passing year, I've noticed that I enjoy it less. When I started analyzing it more, I realized it's mostly because my body doesn't adapt as well, so I won't have the same mood, sleep, or level of energy.

Here are a few things that might help you. 

  1. Stay hydrated and move often. There is a price to pay, though. The more you drink, the more you need to use the bathroom, which forces you to move more during the trip. Try to talk or move while waiting for your flight.
  2. Compression stockings may not be the most comfortable option, but they are an effective solution for those who need them. I compare it to having a free, constant, gentle massage (compression) that could prevent leg edema, clot formation, and other conditions. You could also gently move your toes and feet during your trip.
  3. Avoid caffeine or alcohol, as they can make you more dehydrated. Support your digestion by chewing your food thoroughly and eating a light, cooked meal, if possible. Natural digestive aids, such as ginger or peppermint tea, can help ease nausea or bloating.
  4. For some of my patients, I may recommend starting or continuing baby aspirin or other medications, since DVT is a concern during long journeys due to extended periods of sitting and limited movement. Please remember that it's not recommended for everyone, and it could be more harmful than helpful. Therefore, always consult your doctor about traveling with your medical conditions and medications.
  5. Stress management can be achieved through various methods, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or meditation. If you decide to use any essential oil, such as lavender, please do so in the privacy of your room, so that no one nearby will have an unwanted reaction to it. 
  6. To relieve head pressure during or after flying, you could try chewing gum for a short time, swallowing frequently, or using the Valsalva maneuver to equalize pressure in your ears. Nasal saline sprays can help alleviate nasal dryness, and artificial tears can help with eye dryness. Earplugs, especially those specifically designed for use during flights, can help relieve ear discomfort caused by pressure changes. 
  7. You might need to adjust to the time zone, especially if you fly overseas. For example, jet lag after a 12-hour time difference typically lasts for about 12 days. Try to adjust your sleep pattern to the new time zone, stay hydrated, and use morning sunlight. Ask your doctor about Melatonin or other sleeping aids.

If you manage to stay positive, especially during a long and exhausting flight, your adjustment and recovery will be faster. Do something you enjoy and make the most of your trip. 

Don't forget we have an excellent medical team here at JCHC in Fairfield to help you navigate all health-related issues.

Nilfar Karimova, MD 

Internal Medicine
Jefferson County Health Center Clinics


Nilfar Karimova with her middle daughter Irma Jara
 

Nilfar Karimova with her friends from Crossfit Kilo 2