did you need medical care on and after the camino

[+@^^]

blisters, scrapes and bruised ego aside
did you require any medical help while on the camino
or afterwards as a result of your walk

 

[Dael]

Regretably yes. My old mans prostate shut things down. I put myself in the hands of my travel insurance company. One call to them brought an English speaker to my hotel room and he stayed with me until an ambulance arrived. The medical care was great while in Spain and I was able to travel home without help. I will draw a veil over what happened later, sufficient to say that the problem will not happen again.
The moral of my tale, and the reason that I posted on a personal matter is to urge folks to seriously consider paying for private healthy insurance. I was able to lie back and hurt knowing that after one telephone call they were doing the organising on my behalf. I was alone in a Country where I didn't speak the language and their help was a great comfort.

 

[lynnejohn]

During a few caminos my husband had to get medical care for:
Pneumonia x2
Back injury x1
Excellent care, rest, medications, and caminos resumed without incident.

 

[Anniesantiago]

My walking partner in 2006 required medical attention to a tick bite... actually to a second degree burn HE gave himself trying to get rid of the tick.

It was very nice. The gentleman at the farmacia pulled out a chair, sat him down, cleaned his wound, medicated it, dressed it and handed him the tube of antibacterial ointment.

The charge?
6 Euro

THAT wouldn't happen in the USA!

 

[AJ]

2009 stress fracture first metatarsal; plaster and physio at home

2010 tendons: physio at home.

 

[Kitsambler]

No, but any massage therapist who sets up business in Conques would make a fortune, I think.

 

[newfydog]

My wife went into a pharmacy to look for an antibiotic for a urinary tract infection. The pharmacist gave her a weird powder to mix in a drink, and assurred us it was the right thing. It cost five dollars.

She was better in an hour. Our doctor in the US looked up this miracle drug, and found it was just coming available here. Cost for one dose is $80.

 

[methodist.pilgrim.98]

Blisters for Diabetics are potentially bad news as they can go septic and even gangrenous.

I had one so bad I went to the casualty in León. They made me rest up for three days.

I've had to go to the PAC Clinic in Santiago to get extra blood testing strips. A doctor actually came in on his day off to bring me the right sort for my metre. I was very grateful but felt a right idiot that this happened.

In 2009 I walked Ferrol to Santiago, then La Coruna to Santiago (Camino Inglés) and then Santiago to Muxia. It was a real struggle and the fastest I walked was 3km per hour.

Despite a number of tests on my heart 18 months earlier it was only when I got back that the hospital finally discovered that I had silent angina and a blocked artery (since dealt with by surgery).

 

[Tia Valeria]

My wife went into a pharmacy to look for an antibiotic for a urinary tract infection. The pharmacist gave her a weird powder to mix in a drink, and assurred us it was the right thing. It cost five dollars.

She was better in an hour. Our doctor in the US looked up this miracle drug, and found it was just coming available here. Cost for one dose is $80.

That is what I did for Terry last year in Oviedo at the pharmacy there, cost 12 euros and worth every cent. Brilliant, he too recovered quickly. Sadly we didn't make a note of what it was. Could you put its name up or PM us please newfydog it would be very useful to know.

 

[newfydog]

That is what I did for Terry last year in Oviedo at the pharmacy there, cost 12 euros and worth every cent. Brilliant, he too recovered quickly. Sadly we didn't make a note of what it was. Could you put its name up or PM us please newfydog it would be very useful to know.

The powdered antibiotic is called Monurol, at least in the states. The generic name is fosfomycin.

Good thing to have if one is going straight from a long, dehydrating plane ride to an extended bike tour.

 

[wdbillingsley]

My walking partner in 2006 required medical attention to a tick bite... actually to a second degree burn HE gave himself trying to get rid of the tick.

It was very nice. The gentleman at the farmacia pulled out a chair, sat him down, cleaned his wound, medicated it, dressed it and handed him the tube of antibacterial ointment.

The charge?
6 Euro

THAT wouldn't happen in the USA!

When we were in Italy, we found that the pharmacists were trained to diagnose minor problems and provide the medicine or treatment on the spot. Sounds like it might be similar in Spain. In the US a pharmacist usually won't do more than recommend an over the counter drug and to see the doctor.

 

[methodist.pilgrim.98]

This is getting slightly off topic but

Dear WD, In England you can only get metformin (Type 2 diabetes tablet) on prescription. On the Camino a pharmacy sold them to me. Likewise my son obtained anti-inflamatory tablets over the counter which in England require a prescription.

On the Diabetes board there are cases where people have been able to buy insulin over the counter. That is definately not allowed in England.

I like the more relaxed Spanish approach to dispensing medicine.

I didn't mention that my care at León (see above) was excellent.

 

[Beverley]

Ah Anniesantiago, your friend tried the old fire in the but of the tick trick. Poor guy. I live in tick country and for tick removal, grab it pull it out slowly. The problem lies in the head breaking off and possible infection to follow. If an antiseptic is applied immediately the infection possibility is reduced. An infections (not likely to happen) is easier to deal with then a 2nd degree burn. I hope your friend recovered quickly :cry:

 

[dustylee]

As is common, I bought a BUNCH of stuff for blisters while on the Camino. In terms of real medical treatment, the only thing I needed was some prednisone (the last couple of days I got bad tendonitis in the front of my shin, probably related to walking with blisters) and codeine for pain. However, on a previous trip to Spain (NOT on the Camino) I got a bad case of strep throat and was unable to convince the MD that I had something other than a virus and thus could not get the antibiotics that I needed & it made the trip quite a challenge. Now, whenever I travel out of the States, I take with me two types of antibiotics: one for GI tract infections/UTI (Ciprofloxacin) and one for respiratory infections (Azithromycin). I never get sick while at home, but have had to use these on various trips when I got ill & was VERY HAPPY to have been able to treat myself & not have to slow down my traveling. In terms of getting the medications in Spain, it helped that I had a bottle from a previous prescription (hydrocodeine) and knew how to take the Prednisone: otherwise they would not have given them to me. With the exception of the blisters from hell, I felt totally healthy throughout the Camino until the last days with the tendonitis (if you get this, you have to stop walking because it just gets worse). I hope that was a bit helpful. Oh yes & I did make several stops at the Red Cross locations to have help with my blisters (the people there were fantastic!)
Dusty from Texas

 

[Arn]

I severely injured my right knee in a fall on the steep side of the Alto de Perdon during a storm. By the time I reached Estrella (by car from my albergue just outside...the owners wouldn't let me continue)and the amblatoria my knee was totally locked up. When I asked for assistance and told them I was an American I was informed that since I wasn't from the EU I had to "walk" down the street to the bank and arrange for a 60Euro transfer to the office. I returned and was told that my consultation for my injury was now scheduled for the coming Friday...four days hence.

I explained that I was a peregrino (couldn't tell I guess) and couldn't stay that long,,,just for a consult.

As I was leaving, 60 Euros lighter, a lady from behind the counter came around and indicated the Dr, who was also a peregrino, would see me right then. I exited the elevator into a waiting room for the Dr. It was packed with folks. The nurse was right there and she (was the most beautiful woman I have...well, I digress) escorted me to the office. After twisting and turning the Dr suggested that I go home...or at least slow down, rest the knee and get some crutches. If possible, consider taking a train or bus when the knee acts up again. I did all he suggested and finished in SDC three weeks later.

Here in the USA back when the colonies were established (1600's)the local pharmacy usually diagnosed maladies and suggested remedies...that usually worked. As it would happen...the business next door was a lawyer. Just in case the remedy didn't work.

Buen "we all have a tale...most of them good" Camino,
Arn

 

[renegadepilgrim]

I had lots of blisters early on, then developed plantar fasciitis in my left foot.

I tried to get medical help in Logrono and was referred to a clinica that wanted 95 Euros up front, so I turned around and walked out, not getting any help. If I was uninsured in Oregon, it would NOT cost me that much to go see my own doctor (which I have done when I had no insurance). I refused to go sit in the Emergency Department, when I would never do such a thing back home (FYI, I work in Emergency Medicine, so there is a certain amount of pride involved here.....) because I considered it an Urgent matter, not an Emergent one. Therefore, no medical assistance.

Previously, in Estella, I was able to take advantage of the Red Cross clinic set up down the street from the albergue and got both feet attended to, and convinced the volunteer to give me a few bits and bobs I didn't have in my first aid kit. She also gave me a calf/foot massage in each leg! It was heavenly.

It wasn't until Santo Domingo del Calzado that I befriended a Spanish girl from Bilbao who helped me buy the correct kind of tape to properly tape my feet for the Plantar Fasciitis and once I was able to do that, it helped tremendously.

I was never able to experience medical care in a hospital or clinic and hope I never have to.

 

[mspath]

During my first Camino after crossing the long medieval bridge over the river I entered the town of Hospital de Orbigo. Attempting to photograph the parish church I lost my footing and fell head first onto the irregular pavement! My pack crashed into my right shoulder. I was flat on the ground; my forehead and shoulder hurt like hell! Gently other pilgrims helped me up. An egg was quickly swelling on my forehead (by day’s end I resembled Cyclopes). Out of nowhere a kind Spanish couple appeared and the man said “Don’t worry, madam, I am a Chevalier de Santiago and will help”. Examined at the regional hospital, I was told to rest, and see a doctor again the following day.

The Spanish couple graciously invited my friends and me to lunch at their house. We met their grown sons and had a trilingual conversation. Our host explained that the Chevaliers de Santiago are a group of Catholic men, who have been nominated to become members and who pledge to foster the Camino and help all pilgrims. In the Spanish custom lunch lasted at least four hours! With my left hand I alternated holding ice to my head and trying to eat since my right shoulder and arm were extremely painful. Nevertheless, how, lucky I was to be able to move and to have found a ‘guardian angel’.

Next morning while I was still on my bunk the Chevalier and the local priest walked into the dorm to see how I was doing! Next the Chevalier and his wife took me to the local doctor whose office was adjacent to the church. When all three of us entered the examination room, the Chevalier said to the doctor “Another one has fallen!” It seems that in recent months others had also fallen on the same new paving where I stumbled. The doctor checked my eyes, gave me simple pain killers and wished me good luck. Later I ate again with the Chevalier and his family. Never will I forget their kindnesses and spontaneous gracious hospitality. It was heartfelt Camino ‘caritas’.

 

[johnBCCanada]

In 2008 I limped into Castrojerez and stayed at a private albergue. The next morning I woke up with a very swollen ankle. The very helpful hospitalero directed me to a medical clinic where the Dr. (who spoke no English) examined me and spoke to me with the assistance of a phrasebook. She directed the nurse to bandage my ankle, told me to rest and gave me a note to the local Farmacia so I could get some quite strong Ibuprofen. The Dr. and nurse were very helpful and refused my offer of payment. Also the hospitalero in the Casa Nostra was also very friendly and helpful.

I took that day off and started again the next day but modified my Camino in that I bussed a couple of short sections, bought a pair of trekking poles and walked shorter slower days. It wasn't too painful.

When I got back to Canada a month later my ankle still hadn't healed fully so I checked with my Dr. who explained to me that sprained ankles could take a long time to heal but he did an x-ray to be on the safe side. I had broken a bone.

I have no complaint with the Spanish medical system. I suspect that Castrojerez is small enough that they might not even have an x-ray system and I am sure that a minor broken ankle and a badly sprained ankle look very similar. Although I had to change my plans I met some great travelling companions and did walk to Santiago and had a very good Camino.

John

 

[SabsP]

That is what I did for Terry last year in Oviedo at the pharmacy there, cost 12 euros and worth every cent. Brilliant, he too recovered quickly. Sadly we didn't make a note of what it was. Could you put its name up or PM us please newfydog it would be very useful to know.

The powdered antibiotic is called Monurol, at least in the states. The generic name is fosfomycin.

Good thing to have if one is going straight from a long, dehydrating plane ride to an extended bike tour.

Monurol is what I got a couple of weeks ago at the Centro de Salud at Carrion de los Condes. A couple of days earlier I started to get some mnior urinary problems ( but annoying if you do not find a tree immediately lol ...). Anyway, got to centro de salud, gave my european health insurance card and id-card, they made a copy , I sribbled my singnature. All paperwork will be send to my belgian health insurance , all for free ( but then again we pay enough taxes here as it is ).
Doctor quickly diagnosed the ailment and ten minutes later I got my prescription for Monurol, powder thing for one day. Waited till pharmacy opened again after siesta and I got my antibiotica for 2.50 €. Pharmacist told me that it was good that I went to doctor because she herself couldn't give me the medication without a prescription.
So yes very pleased with medical attention I received, lovely nurse and desk personnel and the fatherly doctor who helped me so swiftly.
Again in this situation it helped that I spoke spanish : nurse and doctor in Carrion de los Condes did not speak english and were glad that I could make an effort.

 

[jpflavin1]

I had a very swollen and painful achilles tendon. After several painful days of walking, I stopped in a Farmacia in Fromista and the owner, after looking at my foot, recommended I buy this nylon half sock with a pad that covered the achilles. The pain stopped almost immediately and within a few days the swelling had diminished. Not sure what the sock is called but the manufacturer is Lugo. I referred to it as my Camino miracle sock. It cost 18 euro.

Ultreya,
Joe

 

[Deleted member 3000]

I sure would like to know where I can get some good travel insurance.

 

[RENSHAW]

I sure would like to know where I can get some good travel insurance.

what we need is to hear from a pilgrim that had to make use of an insurance and then made a successful claim?

 

[Canuck]

I sure would like to know where I can get some good travel insurance.

Falcon,

If you live in the States, AAA is a good source.

Jean-Marc

 

[renegadepilgrim]

http://www.squaremouth.com

 

[Tulle]

I'm back home after this year's walk from Castrojeriz to Astorga. I arrived in Sahagun with a swollen toe and went to a medico center. I just had to say the word peregrina and they treated my toe twice, gave me antibiotics and adviced me to walk no more than 10 km the next day. I paid nothing at the medico center or at the farmacia. I had to show my European health card and my passport, that was all. (My toe is fine now, just a little blue..)

 

[jirit]

About 6 days prior to arriving in Santiago, I stumbled and fell and sliced open my left hand. The wound was deep, and it was obvious I needed stitches

So I continued to the next little village, called for a taxi and I took it to Tricastela to the clinic (about 15km further on from where I first fell).

Six stitches later I was sent on my way, with instructions to keep the wound clean, and that I should drop in the clinic in the next town to have the dressing replaced. Ditto for the next few days. Likewise I was given a prescription for drugs.

There was no charge for the stitches and follow on visits including when I arrived in Santiago (after going to the coast and Finisterre and Muxia) to have the stitches removed.

The hand is slowly healing, the wound has completely healed but the ringer finger took most of the hit, so there is a bit of soft tissue damage to deal with still

 

[Anniesantiago]

I'd sure like to know more about that sock! My achilles tendons often complain on the Camino.

I had a very swollen and painful achilles tendon. After several painful days of walking, I stopped in a Farmacia in Fromista and the owner, after looking at my foot, recommended I buy this nylon half sock with a pad that covered the achilles. The pain stopped almost immediately and within a few days the swelling had diminished. Not sure what the sock is called but the manufacturer is Lugo. I referred to it as my Camino miracle sock. It cost 18 euro.

Ultreya,
Joe

 

[Sojourner47]

I'd sure like to know more about that sock! My achilles tendons often complain on the Camino.

Maybe a different approach, but try : http://www.therapysocks.com

 

[SisterPearl]

I had horrific blisters towards the end of the first week, but thankfully two hospitaleros (one in Villatuerta, and then again another the next night in Estella -- yes, I only walked 4km that day!) drained, cleaned and dressed them, and showed me how to properly care for blisters After that, my feet healed quickly and I think I only got two small blisters for the entire rest of the Way.

However... since returning home in late August, I had to see my doctor about recurring and debilitating foot pain, which she diagnosed as plantar fasciitis. It is painful, and the recovery is slow, but it does feel a little better each day. I'll probably be receiving care for this for a few more months, desfortunadamente, but at least I am getting the care I need!

 

[RENSHAW]

[quote="SisterPearl" but thankfully two hospitaleros (one in Villatuerta, and then again another the next night in Estella -- yes, I only walked 4km that day!) drained, cleaned and dressed them, and showed me how to properly care for blisters [/quote]

At the Risk of being accused of being a bit of a "Fuddy Duddy' - the help was offered in good faith , however, I wish to caution all pilgrims.

TEND TO YOURSELVES! - The risk to your health with needles and body fluids is a real one - Do not let anyone touch you who are not Qualified.

Sorry , but in this day and age ............I see complete strangers on the Camino tending to one another in an amateur fashion without the slightest concern - .......... Besides the risk of infection there is of course Hepatitis B and HIV ...... Beware! :!:

 

[MoniRose]

I had multiple trips to the farmacias and they were very kind and helpful. Saw a doctor in Santa Domingo who was offering services for donativo, and he made me new arches for my shoes! Took a fall and hit my face then got sick the next night so was looked at in the Centro Medico in Astorga. They were quick, caring, and free. All relatively minor compared to what others dealt with.

Returned from the Camino (and a week celebration in Paris) on July 12 with a slightly strained left knee and ankle, so have been doing yoga since my return to help strengthen those areas and get my body back in balance. Treating calluses with pumice stone and foot massages, and just booked myself a swedish massage and reflexology treatment. I think I'll be back to normal soon. -M :arrow:

 

[FrancesK]

I sprained my ankle in an epic storm just outside of Boadilla. I kept hiking on it for the remaining 3 weeks to Santiago but only thanks to some awesome painkillers from the farmacia.

Back in Cambridge my Auntie took me to the hospital for xrays - all OK. Two months down the track and im back in Perth, West Aus and i've just had a cortisone injection into the ankle. Here's hoping that sorts it out because i want to get trekking again next Euro spring!

 

[Stephen Nicholls]

In spite of four months preparation, bathing feet in surgical spirit each night and wearing double-layer walking socks, I got severe blisters on my first day, after 33 kms on tarmac roads. I have no idea why. A taxi to a medical centre resulted in prompt, kind, free attention. I heard them discussing cutting and stitching the skin :cry: probably because the skin was thick after the surgical spirit. In the end they bandaged them and said no more walking at all for three days.
Sadly, that plus continuous rain resulted in an abandoned camino - that was at the beginning of May this year, walking and hobbling from Salamanca on the VdlP.

Buen camino - sin ampollas!

Stephen
http://www.calig.co.uk/camino_de_santiago.htm

 

[DesertRain]

I came to know more about Spanish hospitals (all good) than I would prefer: http://www.caminodesantiago.me/board/medical-issues-on-the-pilgrimage/topic7980.html (about 3/4 of the way down.

Not to sound like a broken record (to show my age).... Please, please, please.... Get travel medical insurance. You and the economically distressed Spanish medical system may come to appreciate it deeply.

 

[Kitsambler]

Please, please, please.... Get travel medical insurance.

And keep the insurance paperwork with you! Leaving it in the suitcase you ship on ahead does not help much at all. (she says from painful personal experience)

Oh by the way: the emergency number throughout Europe is 112. As I understand it, they will find an emergency operator who speaks English.

And while you're at it, contemplate the situation of having fallen and knocked yourself out cold and speechless. Leave your emergency contact info and pertinent emergency medical info (drug allergies!) in your wallet.

 

[cstclare]

On my first Camino in 2003(Roncesvalles to Santiago) I had a chronic problem with blisters, but managed fine with the help of many visits to the farmacias along the way.

I finished my 2nd Camino (SJPP-Santiago) on June 14,2012
This time, I had a few blisters, but my main issue was something else altogether. On May 7, I fractured my calcaneous(heel bone). I thought I had tendinitis, so I kept on walking(or should I say hobbling!). I did see a Spanish doctor two weeks after the injury. He was volunteering for the Red Cross, and treated me for free. However, he too came up with a working diagnosis of tendinitis, and did not suggest an x-ray. So I hobbled on, liviing on Ibuprofen,walking short stages, resting often, icing my foot, wearing an ankle brace, elevating my foot in the evenings. Although I was in quite a bit of pain, it really did not dampen my spirits at all, and I had a wonderful "poquito poco" experience.

After finishing my Camino I spent a lovely two weeks in the south of France visiting friends, and continued the RICE treatment. Still swollen, painful, and limited range of motion, so as soon as I got home, I went to an orthopedist. And the rest is history. I have been in a boot cast for a month now, and am slowly improving. No permanent damage has been done, but full recovery will take awhile. I don't care. My Camino was amazing!! And now I am planning my next one!!

 

[Stephen Nicholls]

Medical care in Spain is excellent. Pharmacists [chemists] are, I believe, more qualified than in many other countries, and can advise and dispense medicines often only obtainable on prescription in the UK.
I needed emergency aid with blisters in May. A taxi took me to the nearest open Emergency centre, where I was treated brilliantly. Of course, I took my special card, obtained in the UK, for hospital treatment anywhere in the EU.
Previously I have had to attend Spanish hospitals as an emergency after falls while walking: I have been seen by a doctor, given X-rays, seen again by the doctor, given appropriate medication, and out - all in two hours. You wouldn't get that in the UK!!
Buen camino!
Stephen

 

[Victor Morgado]

On m first camino 1991, my anckles were so swollen I could not put my shoes back...I stood under the only tree in Atapuerca, surrounded by locals. I was invited to stay in someone 's home who offered to take me to the Red Cross..When I got to the Red Cross, the doctor told me that since I had no health insurance he could only treat me not inside the building but outside the building...so we walked out and sat on the sidewalk, he came out and gave me medicine , asked me to take a few days of rest, to which my Hosts agreed..I did recovered. On my second Camino, 1995 developed Tendonitis, and OMG what a bitch that is for someone walking, I was in Burgos when that happened. My foot felt as heavy as lead and painful when walking..I found several "healers"..massage experts etc that would help a bit and then, nothing. Then When I got to Leon, I met a real therapist, who practiced "Polarity Therapy" it was a sort of accupresure ..it did worked! I could not beleive it but this man took the tendonitis away after half hour of massage and pressure around my knees and anckles..then two days later, I developed a stomach virus so strong that I decided to quit the camino.As if in a movie, as I was about to enter a train to leave Spain, I began a conversation with a stranger who happened to be a German Doctor who wrote me a prescription for what I had and prescribed me to sleep in a hotel for two nights,,,which I did and continued the Camino the next day, the day I met the mother of my two children....

 

[adesmar123]

I had a cap on a tooth fall out at Santo Domingo de la Calzada. I walked to Belorado where, with some assistance from locals, I found a dentista. She fixed me up and got me back on the road.

 

[Atlas Traveler]

And keep the insurance paperwork with you! Leaving it in the suitcase you ship on ahead does not help much at all. (she says from painful personal experience)

Oh by the way: the emergency number throughout Europe is 112. As I understand it, they will find an emergency operator who speaks English.

And while you're at it, contemplate the situation of having fallen and knocked yourself out cold and speechless. Leave your emergency contact info and pertinent emergency medical info (drug allergies!) in your wallet.

This is good advice. I have an upcoming trip planned and will be purchasing travel insurance and I will leave my insurance and contact information with my travel buddies. Thank you for sharing.

 

[karenfromcali]

Does anyone have a recommendation for a good travel insurance company?

 

[egar]

Does anyone have a recommendation for a good travel insurance company?

We got our travel insurance for the Camino through SquareMouth.com. They represent a number of insurance companies and provided realtime quotes and comparisons between plans. I was very pleased with the site and the rates. Can't tell you anything about the claims process, and I hope I will never have to know.

 

[karenfromcali]

Thanks egar! Appreciate the response. I will check them out.

 

[hecate105]

Well! I had horrendous toothache and went to a dentist in Tui. This cost 50 eu I think - they prescribed the wrong antibiotics first time (despite allergy info in Spanish!) The pharmacy was great and gave me oodles of antibiotics, painkillers and anti-inflammatories - and sent me to the local clinic where a kind lady gave me an injection in my bum which numbed everything for hours!! Clinic was free. At Santiago I had root canal work done (while others were all at mass...) - and on my birthday too! Then later on - cycling homewards on the Voie de Litoral my husband got a septic foot, which we promptly took to the local hospital. As we had been robbed of passports, E111 and everything else a few days before, we could only show them our crime report and hope for treatment. His foot was treated, bandaged and creams etc given - no charge at the time. Six months later we got a bill for 16 euros!!
We have had fabulous - and free -hospital treatment in France and in Greece before, dentists are usually good - but expensive - as they are in UK!
My pilgrimage was curtailed by two bee stings - I cycled with a swollen ankle for 5 days, then when I went to a local clinic, was told that I had to put it up, and no cycling or it might never heal!
I think insurance might be good for the big, awful things, when you have to be freighted home - but despite buying long-term, cyclists insurance I ended up worse off after having everything stolen and the claim itself was bloomin hard work!

 

[obinjatoo@yahoo.com]

After reading these posts about medical and what not, I just want to add my 2 cents about blister care and treatment. The best way to avoid blister care is to avoid blisters. IT IS POSSIBLE! This whole topic is really about self care. Yes, some illnesses are unavoidable. I'm glad folks found treatment for the inevitable. But someone who continues to walk 33 K and get horrendous blisters is exhibiting poor decision making. Make sure your walking shoes fit BEFORE you leave home. If it's a toss up between a half size too small and a half size too big, go bigger your feet always swell. Put one hundred miles on them. Stay hydrated and that means drink BEFORE you get thirsty and then drink more. Pay attention to "hot spots" on your feet. A blister is essentially a burn caused by friction. You'll recognize this because it will feel hot. Make adjustments immediately. Tape the hot spot. Stick to wool and one layer of sock should be sufficient. If not it's the wrong shoe. Even though it can be very hot and unless you are allergic to it, wool is the best thing on your skin.
And finally, learn blister care from any website before you leave home. Rule number one of Leave No Trace principles is: PLAN AHEAD AND PREPARE...

 

[eku_79]

I finished my camino very recently and after walking 2 weeks aprox 25 km or more per day I got just small blisters on my heels and they didn't disturb walking. Basically I didn't have problems.
Mostly it was thanks to the tips I got from this forum. What I did was changing socks at least once in a day and used vaseline on my feet. I'm thankful to the forum and ppl who contribute here

 

[whariwharangi]

I participated in a first aid situation near Fuentes Nuevas. A fellow was trimming small branches from a newly cut staff and managed to slice his hand open.

Fortunately the hospital was literally a stones throw away and he got help (several stitches) in short order.

Some people never learn; he had the bloody blade out and was trying to clean it while walking. He very nearly knocked himself out on a telephone pole.

It bothers me that the accident was entirely preventable and wonder what would have happened had the incident occurred in a more remote place.

 

[jirit]

While walking the camino Frances the second time in 2011, I fell head firsts about an hour outside of O Cebreiro, just past Alto de San Roque. Sliced my left hand open. A Swedish couple ahead of me heard me crash and came back to pick me up, wipe off all the blood, etc. Another group came up moments later and somebody splashed disinfectant over my hand ( thank you who ever you were) and together with the Swedish couple we wandered on the little hamlet of Hospital de Condesa where as you might have expected the ancient hospital was no longer open nor was there a clinic.

However there was an open bar, with a bar owner who after getting over the shock of seeing all the blood called for taxi for me. The taxi arrived minutes and I was driven to Triacastela where there is a medical clinic. A nice Spanish doctor along with her English speaking assistant clean me once again, jabbed with a couple of needles, and weaved 6 stitches into my left hand and sent me packing about an hour later.

I decided to call it a day and crashed in the albergue for the day but I was off and gone the following morning.

I had the stitches removed before I left Spain but I needed a bit of finger therapy on my ring finger ( the fall left me ring finger slightly bent and slightly larger than before)

 

[t2andreo]

On my first Camino this past April / May I had chronic and serious callus problems on both heels from before Pamplona, until I finally forced myself to leap-frog three days by bus into Burgos, checked into a 4-star hotel so I would be assured of English-speaking personnel and asked them to help me find: (1) the world's best pedicure; (2) a podiatrist (foot doctor); or (3) the nearest hospital emergency room. By that time, my heels were bleeding and I could barely stand let alone walk. The hotel desk personnel scored on #2 within one-hour of checking in. I want to share this information with everyone because this doctor was a gem.

Dr. Jesus Martinez-Moron, Podologo (Podiatrist)
Avenida del Cid (Campeador) #3
5th Floor (directly opposite the lifts a little to the lift)
Burgos, Spain

Tel 1: +34.947.265.042
Tel 2: +34.947.268.677

Hours: Monday - Friday 0900-1400 and 1600-2000

The Burgos city map provided at the TI (tourist information office) shows the rectangular, red-brown brick, office building in the square La Concordia, adjacent to the long fountain building between Avenida del Cid (Campeador) and Calle Santoclides. The entrance faces Avenida del Cid (Campeador).

You need to press the "Podologo" button on the resident directory to be buzzed into the lobby and the lifts. So, it is probably best to have someone who speaks fluent Spanish call ahead for an appointment.

Dr. Martinez literally came in on his day off - Saturday - to meet me in his office to examine and treat me. Although he speaks NO ENGLISH at all - except, perhaps for "OK," we managed a 3-way conversation with the hotel desk clerk translating on the phone. From our conversation, I learned that, as a younger man (I think he is pushing 70 at present, judging from the wall full of diplomas and certificates from all over) he was a peregrino. Thus, he understood the significance of my problem and the need for his services. This fellow was an angel, when I most needed one.

Everything worked out fine. I had a minor inpatient surgery (he carved the calluses off my feet with a scalpel, dressed the wounds and bid me remain off my feet for two days. After the weekend, I returned to him on Monday as instructed. He had hand-made insoles for my hiking boots - in size 13 (US) 47 (EU)! He examined my feet and told me: "Manana, Camino OK!" That was all I wanted to hear...

The first visit, including the surgery was only euro 30. The second visit, including the insoles, was Euro 35. Some may think this pricey, but by U.S. standards it was "dirt cheap." I was very happy to pay.

So, if you have foot problems and you are near or approaching Burgos, Dr. Martinez is the man to see.

I hope this helps someone.

 

[MickMac]

I had a throat infection when I arrived in Pamplona went to chemist, first chemist refused to give me antibiotics (which is fair enough) second chemist (Who had a sign outside saying we help pilgrims) just 100 meters away near the square give them to me. I know you should not use antibiotics but I was in a bad way and thanked the lady profusely. The antibiotics Augmenton (I think that was there name) cost 5 Euro.

 

[Olivares]

I had my small toes inflammated twice their size right after Burgos. I continued walking in said conditions for about 2 more days, about 70 more Kms. I medicated the best I could with the First Aid Kit I was carrying and overall, all was good (painful, but I plowed along!). The decision to see a Doctor came up when I developed a fever and pus started to formed on the tip of the small toes. That was a completely different situation and started to freaked out. After walking 21 Kms more from Calzadilla de la Cueza, I went straight to Urgent Care Clinic in Sahagun where I was taken care of by a very caring Doctor and her Nurse. After cut, drainage, clean, antiseptic, antibiotic cream, bandage and prescription the Doctor told me in no uncertain terms that a minimum of 2 days rest was needed if I did not wanted an infection out of control. I did not needed a lot of convincing. I rested in Sahagun and thanked the excellent Spaniard medical services and pharmacies; soon I felt much better.

BTW, when I approached the clinic to pay for the medical services they looked at me like I had two heads; their medical services were absolutely free, including all the medical supplies used. Gotta love Spain!! What would have been real foolish would have been to NOT seek medical attention.

 

[Olivares]

I'm back home after this year's walk from Castrojeriz to Astorga. I arrived in Sahagun with a swollen toe and went to a medico center. I just had to say the word peregrina and they treated my toe twice, gave me antibiotics and adviced me to walk no more than 10 km the next day. I paid nothing at the medico center or at the farmacia. I had to show my European health card and my passport, that was all. (My toe is fine now, just a little blue..)

Tulle-- you must have gone to the same Urgent Care I went to in Sahagun! The staff at that center are the best! I am from the USA and still was not billed at all.

 

[grayland]

My wife required seeking medical care twice this year on the VdlP. Once in Zamora and once in Santiago for different problems..
No mention of payment or any paperwork was provided at time of medical care. They did make copy of her passport.

There was a bill from each of them when we returned home. The bill from Zamora was a very reasonable 179. euro.

The bill from Santiago was an outrageous 499 euro. The treatment consisted of waiting 3 hours in a crowded waiting room to see a Medico for about 4 minutes. She looked at her leg/ankle said it was "not broken" and sent us on our way. A pharmacist later determined it as severe tendinitis and suggested treatment.

The point here is that we were billed to our home after we returned.....so be aware that things are changing.

 

[vicrev]

Gotta watch those robots & fooberg , grayland, they file away all sorts of info .................,.,.keep smiling....Vicrev

 

[MichaelB10398]

When i see how charitable others can be the thing I like to remember is to always "pay it forward". If someone or some group did something free for you use the money you would have paid to assist another. If we all paid it forward we would change the world.

 

[Icacos]

....... The bill from Santiago was an outrageous 499 euro. The treatment consisted of waiting 3 hours in a crowded waiting room to see a Medico for about 4 minutes. She looked at her leg/ankle said it was "not broken" and sent us on our way. A pharmacist later determined it as severe tendinitis and suggested treatment.

The point here is that we were billed to our home after we returned.....so be aware that things are changing.

That does seem to be an outrageous sum. In April this year I went to a small clinic in Carriόn de Los Condes because of debilitating pain in my lower shin. They gave me an appointment to see a doctor a couple of hours later in the day and I returned at the appointed time. They requested 79.00 Euro up front (I had advised them I was a peregrina), gave me a receipt and told me I could make a claim from my travel insurance company when I got home. I waited mere minutes before a doctor and an assistant-interpreter saw me.

Even though my insurance policy clearly stated that I should call to advise them before seeking treatment (which I had not done, because it was a relatively minor issue and no really significant cost), I submitted my claim upon my return. I was reimbursed in full, no questions asked.

It is somewhat astounding that you would receive such an exorbitant bill upon your return home for what seems to be much the same problem as mine. Perhaps things really are changing, as you say.

 

[LarryBC]

Last month (Sep 2013), I sought medical treatment at a hospital/medical centre in a small town near Burgos, after a bout of diarrhea that had lasted 8 or 9 days. I was treated very well and the entire process was extremely efficient. The receptionist had me fill in a form, took a copy of my passport then handed me a slip of paper that had a doctor's name I'd be seeing and the time I'd see her. About an hour later, almost exactly the time printed on my slip of paper, I was welcomed inside for a consultation. Very impressive!

I walked out without paying a cent, which was a pleasant surprise, but when we arrived back home (in Canada, last week) we had a bill for 71 Euros waiting for us. I'll gladly pay it and since we had purchased medical insurance, forward to them for reimbursement.

We also found the pharamacists to be excellent, and we visited them for some cold medication and for some cream for my wife Jan's shin splints. Great results both times.

 

[jmcarp]

I'm not sure if dental issues apply, but my wife chipped a tooth eating some hard candy just before we reached Loroño. We had a planned rest stop there, and had already reserved a room in a small hotel for the next two nights. We arrived on a Saturday, and asked the receptionist at the hotel for recommendation for a dentist. She said it was doubtful that we would be able to find a dentist until Monday morning. Since it wasn't an emergency, and the chipped tooth was not causing any pain, we waited around until Monday morning. After making several phone calls, we discovered that it was impossible to find a dentist during the month of August (this was 26 August), since it seemed that every dentist was on holiday. So we pushed on, hoping to find a dentist farther up the road.

A few days later, while in Grañon, my wife decided to check with the local farmacia to see if they could recommend anyone. We didn't really expect to find a dentist in a village as small as Grañon, but hoped they could find one farther up the road in perhaps Belorado, the next larger town. Cristina, the pharmacist, and her husband, Gustavo, got on the internet to look, but could not find a dentist in Belorado. By this time, it was late in the evening, so they said they would check with their personal dentist back in Santa Domingo de Calzada. We were back at the farmacia the first thing the following morning, and sure enough their dentist said he would see her. Now here's the good part -- Gustavo volunteered to drive us back to Santa Domingo, wait for the dental work to be done, and then drive us back to Grañon. We were back in Grañon by 11:30, and on the trail again by noon. That was way above the call of duty in our opinion, and just another example of the kindness and helpfulness of the Spaniards along the Camino. Thank you, Cristina and Gustavo! And by the way, the dentist charged 55 Euros for the work, which probably would have cost $300 or more here in the U.S.

Jim

 

[Saint Mike II]

In spite of four months preparation, bathing feet in surgical spirit each night and wearing double-layer walking socks, I got severe blisters on my first day, after 33 kms on tarmac roads. I have no idea why. A taxi to a medical centre resulted in prompt, kind, free attention. I heard them discussing cutting and stitching the skin :cry: probably because the skin was thick after the surgical spirit. In the end they bandaged them and said no more walking at all for three days.
Sadly, that plus continuous rain resulted in an abandoned camino - that was at the beginning of May this year, walking and hobbling from Salamanca on the VdlP.
Stephen
http://www.calig.co.uk/camino_de_santiago.htm

Hola Stephen - I can relate to your problem. To have to abandon the VDLP after a week and 110 km was very annoying. But the doctor in Salamanca (University Medical Centre - E105 - ouch!!) said that had I tried to continue I would have done permanent damage. Its now 5 months and still no fully healed - neurosurgeon said it could take 6 months for the nerve to settle. Hope so as I wish to return and complete. So the words of warning, from my fellow pilgrims, proved very timely. Cheers

 

[StuartM]

I've still not regained full feeling in one of my toes a year on from walking the Frances. In a perverse way I'm kind of proud of it as it reminds me of my Camino.

 

[JohnnieWalker]

And the moral of the story is that everyone, including EU citizens with Eurpoean Health cards, should have travel insurance!

 

[Stephen Nicholls]

Hola Stephen - I can relate to your problem. To have to abandon the VDLP after a week and 110 km was very annoying. But the doctor in Salamanca (University Medical Centre - E105 - ouch!!) said that had I tried to continue I would have done permanent damage. Its now 5 months and still no fully healed - neurosurgeon said it could take 6 months for the nerve to settle. Hope so as I wish to return and complete. So the words of warning, from my fellow pilgrims, proved very timely. Cheers

I hope other pilgtrims will take note.
I think on the Ingles I will be doing some very short distances, especially on the first couple of days.
Buen camino, Saint Mike.
Don't let your halo go dim ....

 

[Jnlee99]

After walking from SJPP to Roncesvalles through Route Napoleon - faster than I should've and with badly laced up boots - I had a bad case of blisters at the bottom of my foot. It was bad as the layer of skin had peeled off. I was seriously contemplating about aborting the Walk but decided to self medicate (wine was wonderful) and treat it with first aid kit I brought with me. After couple more days of this it was almost unbearable and my mind was pretty much made up to stop and head home. However, this is when I ran into follow pilgrim Dr. Irene from New York in an albergue. She graciously treated my foot and get me going again. The next day I ran into another pilgrims Dr. John and his wife from Minnesota (I may have the state wrong and I forgot the name of his wife - I really wish I could remember). They were wonderful and also treated my feet with more care than I would've expected from any doctor anywhere! This got me going for few more days until I met John (operating room nurse) and his brother James on their journey. John provided valuable advise and medicines to get me going again. For me this is the miracle of The Way! God Bless you all, and may you find healing and what you are looking for in the Camino.

 

[t2andreo]

This is a good thread with lots of valuable information. All in, between what I knew to do before setting out on Camino and what I experienced first-hand, I have a few recommendations to make. If followed, and as is appropriate to your personal circumstances, you should have a more trouble-free Camino experience. I recommend that, in the month prior to your departure for your Camino, you:

1. Schedule a routine dental checkup, cleaning, and examination. Problems or potential problems can be dealt with in advance.
2. Schedule an eye examination, obtain a new prescription (to bring with you) and possibly obtain an extra pair of eyeglasses, as a spare.
3. If you have not done so previously, schedule an annual physical check-up with blood labs. Ignoring possible problems only guarantees that "Murphy's Law" will swing into play at the most inconvenient time and place. Preventative care is valuable.
4. Check your vaccinations and booster shots are all up to date. Spain is a safe and healthy county to visit, as is most of Europe. You can (generally) drink the water that comes from a tap. Be sure to carry some anti-diarrheal medication just-in-case. However, having a current tetanus shot, flu vaccination (time of year), or anything else your personal health status indicates, is just a good idea. People fall while walking the Camino. They step on sharp objects, or cut themselves - life happens. They also sleep in close proximity to others who will be ill in albuergues. Be prepared if you are prone to respiratory conditions. Plan in advance, but do not panic.
5. If you have foot issues, calluses, corns, bunions, ingrown toenails etc., have a really good pedicure, or consult your doctor for treatment. I do.
6. If you have chronic medical conditions (as I do) obtain enough prescription medication to see you well beyond your Camino in case your return home is delayed. I usually add an extra one-week's worth. Bring a copy of your prescription(s), permitting refills just in case.
7. If you reasonably KNOW you will have specific problems requiring specific wraps, braces, ointments, or other specialized supplies, bring enough of those from your home to get started. By this, I refer to people you are prone to shin splints, tendonitis, arm, wrist, knee or ankle problems, etc. You know who you are. Personally, I get a condition known as "trigger finger" in my left pinky finger from using my hiking poles. It is painful and annoying, but not Camino-inhibiting. The only treatment is a cortisone injection directly into the joint at the base of the finger...ICK! Although I am thinking that cortisone based arthritis cream might help. I need to research this. Let me know if you have thoughts on this point.

Although everything IS usually available in Spain, finding a pharmacy that is open, and has what you need, when you need it, might be an issue. Getting the exact brand you prefer might be an issue. However, there is frequently something that will do the same thing available. Plus, all the pharmacists are very helpful.

I hope this helps someone.

 

[wrongturn]

It is somewhat astounding that you would receive such an exorbitant bill upon your return home for what seems to be much the same problem as mine. Perhaps things really are changing, as you say.[/quote]

We received a similar sized bill after we returned home. I had an infected blister lanced and dressed at a small clinic. They said they couldn't take cash, and as we had travel insurance they would send us the bill. They took my passport details and true to their word, the most expensive treatment for one blister was sent to us written entirely in spanish but the 290 eur was pretty clear. Still haven't paid it yet because I'm having issues with our dodgy travel insurer. I feel like ripping it up! What do you think would happen if I don't pay it?

 

[renegadepilgrim]

Karma is a b****. Pay the bill.

 

[wrongturn]

Karma is a b****. Pay the bill.

Lol! I always was...just letting out my frustration : )

 

[renegadepilgrim]

Lol! I always was...just letting out my frustration : )

I'm a jaded ER worker. Forgive me. Also, check with your health insurance policy. They might cover it. Mine considers it out of network. I only buy catastrophic/evac insurance.

 

[Dreamwalker33]

I had retinal detachment surgery in Pamplona. Went to ER late one night, EKG, blood work, and XRay the next day. Then 2+ hour surgery where they reattached my retina, removed a cataract, and put in a corrective lens. Asked the Dr. How much will this will cost me, and he said it is free, no bill. Ended up having 2nd eye surgery, as the corrective lens had slipped. So total stay in Pamplona was 4 weeks (couldn't travel with gas bubble in eye).
We bought Travel Guard insurance, and I'm now filling out tons of paper work, having to make copies of all receipts and sending them the originals. Included with making copies we are to copy entire passport. This looks like it will take some time to complete. I have no hospital bill, but listed under "trip interruption," we are supposed to be reimbursed for hotel and food. I certainly hope a hospital bill won't soon appear in our mailbox!
Travel Guard was my first call for help. They told me to go to Pamplona, being the nearest medical facility from Puerta La Reina, and get evaluated.
I will let you know how my claim went with them. It cost about $450 for 2 persons for 2 months of coverage.

 

[Dreamwalker33]

I had retinal detachment surgery in Pamplona. Went to ER late one night, EKG, blood work, and XRay the next day. Then 2+ hour surgery where they reattached my retina, removed a cataract, and put in a corrective lens. Asked the Dr. How much will this will cost me, and he said it is free, no bill. Ended up having 2nd eye surgery, as the corrective lens had slipped. So total stay in Pamplona was 4 weeks (couldn't travel with gas bubble in eye).
We bought Travel Guard insurance, and I'm now filling out tons of paper work, having to make copies of all receipts and sending them the originals. Included with making copies we are to copy entire passport. This looks like it will take some time to complete. I have no hospital bill, but listed under "trip interruption," we are supposed to be reimbursed for hotel and food. I certainly hope a hospital bill won't soon appear in our mailbox!
Travel Guard was my first call for help. They told me to go to Pamplona, being the nearest medical facility from Puerta La Reina, and get evaluated.
I will let you know how my claim went with them. It cost about $450 for 2 persons for 2 months of coverage.

Got my first bill last Friday from hospital .

 

[peregrina2000]

Got my first bill last Friday from hospital .

Hi, Dreamwalker, I think a lot of us would be interested in hearing how it goes for you with Travel Guard. I have sometimes bought extra travel medical insurance, usually from Medex, but sometimes I just go without it. In part that's because of the stories I hear of how the policies are typically so riddled with exclusions that the average person doesn't understand, and when you go to get coverage on a claim, you find out it's not within the scope of the policy. If I knew for sure that a particular company is efficient, pays up without haggling, and gives generally good service, I would probably stop my wishy washy indecision and just buy it! Thanks.

 

[GreatDane]

Towards the end of my second week (Burgos) I got a head/chest cold that knocked me off my feet. My hotel drew on my map, told me 20 minute walk. Ended up being an emergency clinic. I'd written down "fiebre", "tos", "enfermo" on a piece of paper. Showed it to admissions (10 seconds), they sent me to emergency where I handed them the piece of paper, my passport, my Blue Cross card and my credential. They xeroxed them, had me sign some sort of privacy form (2 minutes) and pointed to an open door across the hall where a doctor was waiting for me. The doctor spoke English, asked about my symptoms, listened to my breathing etc, wrote stuff down, told me upper respiratory infection and opened the blinds to show me where the closest pharmacy was. (10 minute). No need to check out she said. Walked to the pharmacy where my prescription was filled while I waited. (5 minutes and 15 euro for 4 prescriptions) And I was done!!!! The emergency bill came Monday - 74 euro. When I got home I went to my doctor the following day and was diagnosed with pneumonia. Now to send the Spanish bill into Blue Cross....

 

[Olivares]

We bought Travel Guard insurance......

Travel insurance: I do NOT leave home without it.

I had to see a Doctor for toe infection in Sahagun. Visit,consultation, treatment were TOPS. Cost? ZERO: NADA.

 

[Dreamwalker33]

Hi, Dreamwalker, I think a lot of us would be interested in hearing how it goes for you with Travel Guard. I have sometimes bought extra travel medical insurance, usually from Medex, but sometimes I just go without it. In part that's because of the stories I hear of how the policies are typically so riddled with exclusions that the average person doesn't understand, and when you go to get coverage on a claim, you find out it's not within the scope of the policy. If I knew for sure that a particular company is efficient, pays up without haggling, and gives generally good service, I would probably stop my wishy washy indecision and just buy it! Thanks.

Will keep you posted. I scanned my Heath ID cards to them yesterday. They Want to bill my insurance. AIG Travel Guard sent me about 7 pages of claim forms. I'm trying to get through it all. I strongly suggest if anyone buys travel insurance and need medical help, they retain all copies, hotel, food, statement/diagnosis signed by doctor before you leave. We pilgrims get money out of the ATM machines periodically.. No good to use on a claim! Retain all food receipts! This will cover those costs under the "trip interruption" protection.

 

[jmcarp]

Both my wife and I had occasion to seek medical help of sorts during our Camino Francés last year. Neither would be categorized as serious, but they're worth recounting as examples of what to expect on the Camino.

I developed a case of plantar fasciitis shortly after Leon, and being quite stubborn, just gutted it out for the most part. I figured my pain was infintessimal when compared to the pain Jesus suffered on the cross for me, and since this was, after all, a pilgrimage, I just offered it up to Him. However, by the time we reached Portomarin, I gave in and stopped at a farmacia and got a foot brace and some of that 600-mg mega ibuprofin they sell in Spain. Three of those a day made the pain bearable, and I was able to limp into Santiago before the ibuprofin ate away my stomach lining.

My wife's story involves a pair of Camino angels, though. She chipped a tooth while eating some hard candy between Viana and Logroño. We reached Logroño on a Saturday, and there were no dentists available. We had scheduled a rest day in Logroño anyway, so we decided we'd just find a dentist on the way out of town on Monday morning. We didn't realize, however, that it was toward the end of August and seemingly every dentist in Logroño was on holiday. So we proceeded on as far as Grañon, where we met Cristina and Gustavo, our Camino angels. We were fairly certain that we wouldn't find a dentist in a village as small as Grañon, but we went to the local farmacia and asked Cristina, the pharmacist, if she knew if there was a dentist in the next town of reasonable size, which was Belorado. Cristina didn't know, but told us to check back with her the first thing in the morning (it was just before their closing time). We were at the farmacia bright and early the next morning, only to find that she had been unable to locate a dentist in Belorado, but she told us that they talked to their personal dentist back in Santo Domingo de Calzada, a little more than 7 km back behind us. Not only that, her husband, Gustavo, told us he would drive us there, explain the problem to the dentist, wait for us while he fixed the tooth, then drive us back to Grañon. We were back in Grañon by 11:30am, and after a quick bocadillo at the great little mercado next to the farmacia, we were back on the trail by noon. Cristina and Gustavo would not accept a penny for their service, which we felt was far and above any expectations that we had for their assistance, and which qualifies them -- at least in our minds -- as true Camino angels. We chalked up the whole experience as just a part of the magic of Grañon. The dentist, by the way, charged 55 Euros to fix the tooth, which was a fraction of what such a procedure would have cost us back here in the US. And our own dentist, at our next regular check-up, said he couldn't have done a better job himself.

 

[Gil A]

I am a 70 year old senior, I was in hospital for 4 days with an infection the week before we started. Add, 28 hour travel plus a 6 hour difference in time and start walking right away. The result, I passed out before Larrasoaña. Wonder woman took in a taxi to Pamplona... and I apassed out again in the taxi. Medical Services in Pamplona were excellent. They did all kinds of tests because of my age and my diabetes. The diagnosis was exhaustion. Prescription 3 days of rest, sleep and food in Pamplona. They did not charge anything in Pamplona but later at home we received a bill for 120 Euros (really? is that all?) Of course our insurance payed for that.
A month later one day from Astorga I waked up with brutal vertigo and the nausea that goes with it. We took a bus to Astorga and I was throwing all all the time. Again, excellent care in Astorge, they controlled the nausea and told me to rest and wait for the vertigo to go away, that was another 2 days and another 100 or so Euros.
Finally, 5 kn short of Portomarin, I tripped over a branch and fell on my face. Result two black eyes and a wound that required stitches in Portomarin. Thsi was for free. They never sent us a bill.
So, medical services in Spain are excellent and very economical.
Note: We has the advantage that both, my wife and I speak fluent Spanish.

 

[Dreamwalker33]

I am a 70 year old senior, I was in hospital for 4 days with an infection the week before we started. Add, 28 hour travel plus a 6 hour difference in time and start walking right away. The result, I passed out before Larrasoaña. Wonder woman took in a taxi to Pamplona... and I apassed out again in the taxi. Medical Services in Pamplona were excellent. They did all kinds of tests because of my age and my diabetes. The diagnosis was exhaustion. Prescription 3 days of rest, sleep and food in Pamplona. They did not charge anything in Pamplona but later at home we received a bill for 120 Euros (really? is that all?) Of course our insurance payed for that.
A month later one day from Astorga I waked up with brutal vertigo and the nausea that goes with it. We took a bus to Astorga and I was throwing all all the time. Again, excellent care in Astorge, they controlled the nausea and told me to rest and wait for the vertigo to go away, that was another 2 days and another 100 or so Euros.
Finally, 5 kn short of Portomarin, I tripped over a branch and fell on my face. Result two black eyes and a wound that required stitches in Portomarin. Thsi was for free. They never sent us a bill.
So, medical services in Spain are excellent and very economical.
Note: We has the advantage that both, my wife and I speak fluent Spanish.

Wow! You really went through a lot! Very helpful that you spoke fluent Spanish! I hope you are doing well now!

I, too, wish after 20+ hours of travel with 9 hour time difference, that I rested in SJPdP for 2 solid nights of sleep and had good food and plenty of water. Too much in a hurry to start walking. I ended up with injured knees and hospitalization in Pamplona as well.

 

[MichaelSG]

From my blog:

Day 8 - Let's label this as an unplanned rest day - Tomar to Tomar (11 September, 0km, 0 hours)
I've been debating with myself what, if anything I put in the blog about last night but I guess that's what travel blogs are for - laying out what happened. After two short days, Melanie and I were fine and strong except for two minor problems. Melanie had a bad, unusual looking blister on her baby toe that was causing her to adjust her usual gait. I had a funny feeling in my stomach that I found out was a UT infection. I'll spare you the details how I figured that out. As a result, we figured we should stop by the pharmacy after shopping for the next day's fruit and before dinner. When I described my symptoms and Melanie showed the pharmacist her toe, we were both advised that we needed antibiotics that only a doctor could prescribe. The fun news was that the only doctors seeing patients at 7:00pm were at the hospital emergency room across town.

Here's the dilemma, we weren't keen to risk walking further without fixing our problems because we both have experience in these things getting much worse. Tomar is a big town but the next scheduled couple of stops are not so it could be another 90km to the next pharmacist / doctor [edited to add that EVERY town, no matter how small, seems to have a pharmacy but we didn't know that at the time]. If we did go to the hospital, however, we believed it was going to be expensive and take a long time (and also break that "no taxi" rule). The timing was an important issue because we needed food, time to pack in the hostel before others in the room went to sleep and a good night's sleep ourselves. The next stage was a tough 31km walk that even Inigo messaged us that he had trouble with.

Of course, we went to the hospital (133€) and by the time we were sorted out with the needed drugs (31€, no steroids), it was 10:00pm. The decision was made for us: today was going to be a rest day. There was no way we could walk today without proper food or sleep so for the first time on either Camino, we didn't walk anywhere (except as noted below). I'm disappointed but we get curveballs thrown at us for a reason, I guess.

 

[Walter1407]

The hallux joint of my left foot started hurting somewhere in Southern France. It bothered me on and off for the following four weeks. On the day I walked to Leon, the joint started to hurt badly. I took more than two hours for the last four kilometres. I had no option but to let my Camino friends continue on their own. The following day I shuffled around town in beach sandals, from one bar to the next and then another and one more ... turning the day into a major brandy tasting session. In the evening my foot hurt less, so I set the alarm for 5.20 am, just in case. As I woke up, the pain was gone.
By lunch-time I reached Hospital de Orbigo, but I didn't feel tired. So I called my Camino friends who were in Astorga, asking them to organise a bed for me. I reached them at 6.30pm, having walked more than 50 km - without any pain. I remained pain-free for the rest of my Camino.

 

[Icacos]

The hallux joint of my left foot started hurting somewhere in Southern France. It bothered me on and off for the following four weeks. On the day I walked to Leon, the joint started to hurt badly. I took more than two hours for the last four kilometres. I had no option but to let my Camino friends continue on their own. The following day I shuffled around town in beach sandals, from one bar to the next and then another and one more ... turning the day into a major brandy tasting session. In the evening my foot hurt less, so I set the alarm for 5.20 am, just in case. As I woke up, the pain was gone.
By lunch-time I reached Hospital de Orbigo, but I didn't feel tired. So I called my Camino friends who were in Astorga, asking them to organise a bed for me. I reached them at 6.30pm, having walked more than 50 km - without any pain. I remained pain-free for the rest of my Camino.

Must have been some good brandy!

 

[Atlas Traveler]

I believe the pilgrimage is more physically strenuous than most travelers prepare for. I would recommend preparing for the worst but expecting the best. A small first aid kit will come handy to blisters, bruises and sun burn and check your travel insurance policy for medical benefits in case you need to see a doctor. Safe Travels everyone!

 

[Pathfinder075]

Things you can almost guarantee on holidays abroad are cuts and bruises, diarrhoea, dehydration, and infections. So take a first aid kit that covers it all.

For me, when i do mine i will be building the definitive first aid kit. I have a lot of medical problems, and i have no intention of seeking medical help if i can treat it myself. So i will carry what i need to cover the worst case scenario(s).

Besides that i will have an E111. Unfortunately Travel Insurance is something i cant easily get.

 

[SafariGirl]

During my first Camino after crossing the long medieval bridge over the river I entered the town of Hospital de Orbigo. Attempting to photograph the parish church I lost my footing and fell head first onto the irregular pavement! My pack crashed into my right shoulder. I was flat on the ground; my forehead and shoulder hurt like hell! Gently other pilgrims helped me up. An egg was quickly swelling on my forehead (by day’s end I resembled Cyclopes). Out of nowhere a kind Spanish couple appeared and the man said “Don’t worry, madam, I am a Chevalier de Santiago and will help”. Examined at the regional hospital, I was told to rest, and see a doctor again the following day.

The Spanish couple graciously invited my friends and me to lunch at their house. We met their grown sons and had a trilingual conversation. Our host explained that the Chevaliers de Santiago are a group of Catholic men, who have been nominated to become members and who pledge to foster the Camino and help all pilgrims. In the Spanish custom lunch lasted at least four hours! With my left hand I alternated holding ice to my head and trying to eat since my right shoulder and arm were extremely painful. Nevertheless, how, lucky I was to be able to move and to have found a ‘guardian angel’.

Next morning while I was still on my bunk the Chevalier and the local priest walked into the dorm to see how I was doing! Next the Chevalier and his wife took me to the local doctor whose office was adjacent to the church. When all three of us entered the examination room, the Chevalier said to the doctor “Another one has fallen!” It seems that in recent months others had also fallen on the same new paving where I stumbled. The doctor checked my eyes, gave me simple pain killers and wished me good luck. Later I ate again with the Chevalier and his family. Never will I forget their kindnesses and spontaneous gracious hospitality. It was heartfelt Camino ‘caritas’.

I love this story...and loved Hospital de Orbigo...thank you for sharing it

 

[Albertagirl]

I acquired a really nasty cold on my way home from the camino: mostly, I think, the result of my overnight bus ride from Santiago to Madrid, on a crowded bus with half the passengers coughing. After I got home, my cold turned into bronchitis. My kind doctor gave me a couple of free puffers left by a drug salesman. Thanks to those puffers, which did no good at all (the bronchitis lasted three months) my regular travel insurance company has tripled my cost for insurance: nearly a thousand dollars from $330. I am looking for a new insurance company, so I can afford to go. Any good suggestions from Canadians? This was my first bout of bronchitis for at least ten years, but it appears to be going to have disastrous results on my travel plans.

 

[Bradypus]

I have needed professional attention twice while on Camino.

Once on the Camino Frances when a dentist in Sarria treated me for a deep and painful abscess. He saw me immediately, drained the abscess and temporarily closed the cavity. He also prescribed antibiotics. He charged a trivial sum well below my medical insurance excess.

The second occasion was two years ago when a fall 20km north of St Jean Pied-de-Port left me with a prolapsed spinal disc. A nearby hotel owner kindly called a taxi to take me to St Jean where I had the good fortune to stay at Beilari for 4 days until fit enough to travel home. A local doctor visited Beilari to see me and prescribed medications. All at a very modest cost. For three days I was almost immobile. Joxelu, Jakline and my fellow pilgrims were extremely kind and helpful and I am immensely grateful for their compassion at a painful and anxious time.