Traveling with asthma can pose some challenges. But with the right planning and preparation, you can have a less stressful trip. Here are some things that can help:
Schedule an appointment with your specialist
If you’re traveling with asthma, schedule an appointment with your physician/specialist should be one of your initial steps.
Aside from doing your regular physicals, which will help you determine if you’re fit for travel, your physician can help you identify your triggers and warn you of things or situations to watch out for.
Seeing your doctor can also help you create your Asthma Action Plan, an action plan for asthma emergencies.
Research your destination diligently
When you have asthma, things like sudden weather changes, smoke, dust, and pollen can trigger an asthma attack. So it pays off to do your due diligence in researching your destination.
Strategize where you’ll be staying
Scoring a good deal on your accommodation isn’t good enough if you have asthma. You have to consider the cleanliness of the room and whether it is smoke and pet-free (pet dander, dust, and smoke can trigger an attack). On top of that, you have to check its location. Is it close enough to an urgent care center or a hospital that can cater to your needs if you have an asthma attack? These things are worth considering.
Have an asthma travel kit
Even if you already pack the prescription drugs that’ll last you throughout the whole duration of your trip, it’s still important to have a backup. That’s what your asthma travel kit is for.
This kit may contain a mask, nightly pills, nebulizers, antihistamines, and anything asthma-related (better be safe and ready!). This can be your life-saver when you run out of your prescription meds or when your luggage gets lost.
Create an Asthma Action Plan
An Asthma Action Plan is basically an action plan in case of asthma emergencies. Talking to your doctor can help you plan this out.
What else can you do?
If you’re heading to areas where there is a high risk of exposure to pollen or insect bites, plan to limit your time in that area or bring an insect repellant with you.
If heading to the beach is a part of your itinerary, bring a broad-spectrum sunscreen with you and any sun-protective clothing or items (e.g. hats, umbrellas) especially if you have eczema (sun exposure can make it worse).
If you’re engaging in a highly strenuous activity such as hiking or any form of sport, remember to start with a warm-up and take your quick-relief medication 15 to 20 minutes before you begin. Exercise in itself can trigger an asthma attack.
Greater Knoxville ENT has specialists who have years of experience in assessing and treating people with asthma. Our doctors can assess your condition and help you plan your asthma action plan so you can travel with more ease and less worry.
To schedule an appointment, you may call us at (865) 244-4396.