Travel Tips For Allergy Sufferers

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

12 May 2007 02:02 PM

The countdown to summer vacation is on and if you are like most families you are likely planning a family trip to somewhere fun and fabulous. Unfortunately, if you have allergies or asthma, the symptoms travel with you. Two of my brothers have asthma and I have severe allergies so our family trips usually meant schlepping around backpacks filled with various medications.

If you have children with allergies or asthma or you suffer from the condition, it is important to plan ahead for any changes in the environment that may affect your allergies or asthma. Prior to leaving on extended vacations my mother would always take us into the doctor for a pre-trip examination. I would definitely recommend making an appointment for anyone in your family who suffers with severe allergies or asthma before you head out on the highway or take off in an airplane. One visit could mean the difference between a wonderful vacation and one that is memorable for all the wrong reasons.

In addition to visiting the doctor, I would consider following these other travel tips:

· If you are traveling in a vehicle for a long period of time consider 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.

· Long car rides also mean you'll likely be exposed to air pollution. Ideally, you want to be on the road when the air quality is better so consider traveling in the early morning or late evening, when you can avoid heavy traffic.

· I have been diagnosed with pollen allergies so I never travel with the car windows open. It's a good idea to keep the windows closed if you are sensitive to outdoor allergens such as pollens and molds. Turn on the air conditioning instead.

· When making hotel reservations request an allergy-proof room. If the facility doesn't have a designated allergy-proof room ask for a sunny, dry room away from indoor pools (especially if you are allergic to mold).

· If you are traveling by air, remember the air in planes is very dry. Use saline nasal spray once every hour to keep your nasal membranes moist.

· Don't forget to pack all medications you will need on your trip. It's a good idea to bring more than you think you will need (just in case) and store them in their original containers. If you are flying--make sure you pack your medication in a carry-on bag. If you place them in your checked baggage you run the risk of never seeing them again.

Related Articles:

Traveling with a Medical Condition

Allergies and Asthma

Asthma: Overview

How to Tell the Difference Between a Cold and Allergies

Take Your Allergies and Asthma on Vacation

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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