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Topic of the Month: July 2005:
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Patients & Consumers Topic of the Month: July 2005:
Travel safe this summer - allergy and asthma free
The July 4th holiday is a time when millions of Americans hit the roads and airways for a little rest and relaxation. However, allergy and asthma sufferers won't be able to take a break from their symptoms. The last place you want to end up on your vacation is in the doctor's office or emergency room.
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI), the occurrence of asthma increased 75 percent from 1980 to 1994. More than 70 percent of people with asthma suffer from allergies as well.
Plan ahead
The AAAAI suggests the following tips to help allergy and asthma sufferers plan for a safe vacation:
When on vacation it is common to be outside more often than usual. Allergy and asthma sufferers need to be aware of the potential risks that are outside, such as tree and plant pollen, insects and smoke. Planning ahead for any changes in your environment that could affect your allergies and asthma will make your vacation more enjoyable.
- Call your allergist/immunologist to have a pre-trip physical. An allergist/immunologist is a physician specially trained in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of immune system problems such as allergies and asthma.
- Pack all necessary medications and ointments and have them with you at all times. Make sure you bring more than enough.
- Find the name of an AAAAI allergist/immunologist practicing in your destination area. The AAAAI offers a Physical Referral and Information line, (800) 822-2762, or Physician Referral System on the Web site, www.aaaai.org.
- Consider getting travel medical insurance.
When traveling by land, irritants or allergens can include dust mites, indoor molds and pollen. These allergens can be found in carpeting, upholstery and ventilation systems of vehicles. Use this advice to make your ride more pleasant:
- Air out your car 10 minutes before you start your trip to get rid of allergens that might be inside.
- Use air conditioning and roll up windows.
- Ask fellow travelers not to smoke.
- Travel in the early morning or late evening, when the air quality is better.
Traveling by air can trigger a person's allergies and asthma as well. Domestic flights are smoke free but international flights are not. In addition, food allergies can be another concern because airline food comes from a vendor and no one on board may be able to tell you the specific ingredients of the food. Here are some ideas to help make your trip more enjoyable:
- Carry an EpiPen in case you have a severe reaction while in flight and make airline staff aware of your medication prior to check in.
- Use a saline nasal spray to keep your nasal passages moist. Air in planes is very dry and can aggravate allergy symptoms.
- Pack allergy medications in your carry-on bag and not in your checked luggage, just in case it doesn't make it to your destination or if you need it on the plane.
- Account for the change in time zones when calculating medication dosages.
- While in flight, chew gum, sip liquids and swallow often to relieve sinus pressure.
Dust mites, molds and other allergy triggers can be found in hotel carpeting, mattresses and upholstered furniture. Before checking into your room, make sure to:
- Request an allergy-proof room or ask for a room that is located in a dry, sunny area, away from the pool.
- Inquire about the hotel's pet policy and request a room that is pet-free.
- Check to see if the hotel offers synthetic pillows, or bring dust-proof covers for pillows and mattresses, or personal bedding.
- Check to see if the hotel can change the air filter on your air conditioner prior to your arrival, and use the air conditioner instead of opening the windows.
- Avoid using the hotel closet or drawers if you are allergic to mold. These areas are great breeding grounds.
What an allergist/immunologist can do for you
Consult an allergist/immunologist before leaving on a trip is an important first step in maintaining proper allergy and asthma control. Studies have shown that those under the care of an allergist or immunologist make fewer visits to emergency rooms and are better able manage their allergies and asthma.To find an allergist/immunologist in your area or the area where you will be vacationing, call the AAAAI Physician Referral and Information Line at (800) 822-2762 or visit the AAAAI Web site at www.aaaai.org.
Additional Resources
Tips to Remember: Traveling with Allergies and Asthma
This topic was reviewed on 6/30/2005 by Stuart Friedman, MD, FAAAAI, Patients & Consumers Web Editor.
© 1996-2008 · All Rights Reserved · American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology
