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Tips to Remember: Traveling with allergies and asthma
Traveling ...By auto, bus or train Common allergens such as mites and molds can lurk in the carpeting, upholstery and ventilation systems of vehicles. Before beginning a lengthy auto trip, try turning on the air conditioner or heater and open the windows for at least 10 minutes prior to entering the car. This will help remove dust mites and/or molds that may be in the system. Outdoor allergens, such as pollens and molds, are also potential hazards, especially when traveling with open windows. If you have been diagnosed with pollen or mold allergies, close your windows and turn on the air conditioning instead. Cigarette smoke or outdoor air pollution can worsen allergy and asthma symptoms. To avoid excess air pollution when traveling by automobile, travel in early morning or late evening, when the air quality is better and you can avoid heavy traffic. If you use a nebulizer for your asthma, get a portable nebulizer that plugs into your car's cigarette lighter or uses a portable battery pack. ...By airplane If you have severe asthma and occasionally require supplemental oxygen, you may feel the need for additional oxygen at normal cruising altitudes of approximately 35,000 feet. If you think you may need supplemental oxygen, you must arrange for this with the airline well before the flight. No one can be refused travel for needing supplemental oxygen; however, this has to be arranged in advance. If you have food allergies, be extremely cautious when eating airline food. Since the food comes from a vendor, no one on board may be able to tell you the specific ingredients of the foods. Make sure to carry your portable, injectable epinephrine in case you have a severe reaction while in flight. If you have sinusitis, or a sinus or ear infection, air travel could cause significant pain. Try to delay your travel until your symptoms improve. If you usually experience severe ear or sinus pain while flying, take a short-acting oral decongestant or use a nasal spray decongestant about one hour before takeoff. In flight, sipping liquids, swallowing often and chewing gum may help decrease any pain. The air in planes is very dry. Use saline nasal spray once every hour to keep your nasal membranes moist. This will help you to be more comfortable during and after your flight. ...By ship If you have the skin condition eczema, be forewarned that increased exposure to water and sun can aggravate it. You may get some protection by liberally lubricating the skin with medicated ointment or over-the-counter lotion. Keep in mind that when traveling, the climate and the season of your destination will also dictate your specific allergen and irritant exposure. In tropical, damp climates, you may have increased exposure to allergens such as mites, airborne molds and specific pollens. In cold, damp climates, you may be exposed to more house dust mites and indoor molds. Cold air in frigid, dry environments can also be an irritant for people with asthma. Allergen sources When making hotel reservations, ask if there are allergy-proof rooms available. If you are sensitive to molds, request a sunny, dry room away from areas near indoor pools. Also, if you have allergies to any animals, inquire about the hotel's pet policy, and request a room that has been pet-free. People who are allergic to dust mites may want to bring their own dust-proof, zippered covers for pillows and mattresses, or personal bedding. If staying in a cottage or cabin in a forest or near a beach, make sure to have it thoroughly cleaned and aired-out before you arrive. This can reduce dust mite and mold concentrations. Visiting family and friends Animal allergens, found in pets' dander, saliva or urine, can sometimes be a problem, even if the pet has been put outside or removed from the room. It takes months before the allergic residue of an indoor pet may no longer cause symptoms, so it's best to avoid staying in the homes of family or friends whose pets trigger your allergy symptoms. People with food allergies should be careful about eating holiday treats, any of which may contain hidden, significant food allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, wheat or shellfish. If you are allergic to seasonal pollen found in areas where your family or friends live, try to avoid visiting when that pollen is prevalent. Whether staying with relatives or friends, the key is to talk with your hosts before the visit and plan for any potential difficulties. New experiences If you are participating in an unfamiliar, strenuous sport, make sure that you feel comfortable with your level of activity and that you monitor your breathing. For instance, when mountain climbing, people with asthma should be particularly cautious when considering going above 5,000 feet, where the available oxygen decreases. Asthmatics should also be careful when skiing or engaging in other cold weather sports, since cold air can trigger asthma episodes. Because scuba diving is a particular hazard for asthmatics, people with asthma should snorkel in surface water instead. On the beach, people with eczema and those taking specific medications that make them more sensitive to the sun should avoid sun bathing for extended periods. Using an ounce of prevention If you are traveling with asthma or allergies, follow these recommendations when planning a trip:
Being aware of potential hazards and taking appropriate precautions can ensure an enjoyable trip for those with asthma and allergies. Bon Voyage! When to see an allergy/asthma specialist
Your allergist/immunologist can provide you with more information on traveling with allergies and asthma.
The content of this brochure is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace evaluation by a physician. If you have questions or medical concerns, please contact your allergist/immunologist. American Academy of Allergy, AAAAI Web site ©2007, American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. All rights reserved. May not be duplicated or appropriated without permission. For copyright permission, please email Marianne Canter, Director of Communications and Membership, at mcanter@aaaai.org.
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© 1996-2009 · All Rights Reserved · American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology |
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If you have allergies or asthma, you know they're always with you, even when you travel. To ensure that your next trip is relaxing and enjoyable, plan ahead for the changes in your environment that may affect your allergies or asthma.