Traveling with allergies, asthma

When you travel, you may be exposed to dust mites, molds, pollen and poor air quality. Follow these steps to reduce the effects on your allergies or asthma.

• Depending on the climate and season, outdoor allergens may be on a different schedule at your destination than at home. Be prepared for outdoor allergens you may be exposed to on your trip.
• Before going on a long car trip, run the air conditioner or heater in your car with the windows open for at least 10 minutes. This can help get dust mites and molds out of the climate control system.
• Airplanes often have poor air quality. If you are flying on an international flight where smoking is still allowed, make sure you are seated far away from the smoking section. If you have severe asthma and think you may need supplemental oxygen, contact the airline well before your flight to arrange for this.
• If you will be going on a cruise and have severe asthma or allergies, find out what kind of medical care will be available on the ship.
• When making hotel reservations, ask if the hotel has allergy-proof rooms available. If you are allergic to mold, don’t stay in a room near an indoor pool. If you are allergic to dust mites, you may want to bring your own bedding or dust-proof mattress and pillow covers.
• If you have food allergies, be careful about eating on airplanes or cruise ships – you may not always be able to find out all the ingredients used in preparation. Be sure to bring injectable epinephrine with you.