Asthma is a long-term lung disease that inflames your airways, making it difficult for you to breathe. A number of treatments can help you live a normal life, however. When traveling, you need to manage your asthma effectively, and the doctors at Alpha Internal Medicine can help you develop a treatment plan that will ensure that you have a healthy, safe, and enjoyable trip.
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that often first appears in childhood. It causes your body’s airways to become inflamed and swollen, making it harder to breathe. Environmental triggers, such as air pollution, dust, and chemicals, can worsen asthma symptoms.
The symptoms of asthma can vary from person to person. The most common asthma symptoms are:
It’s important to have your symptoms under control before planning a trip, and it’s also wise to make some accommodations to ensure you’ll be healthy and stable while you’re away.
Double-check to make sure you have your asthma inhaler and/or any other medications in your luggage. Bring any quick-relief or rescue meds you might have as a precaution. You may want to also pack a copy of your prescriptions in case you need them.
Consider your list of asthma triggers when you’re planning your trip. Some of the most common triggers are air pollution, pets, smoke from wood or tobacco, dust mites, and cockroaches. Avoid hotels that allow smoking and pets, and check ahead to see if pollen levels will be high where you’re going, if any of those factors typically trigger your asthma.
Most pools are sanitized using chlorine products, which can aggravate asthma symptoms. It might be best for you to avoid being in places that have pools, especially hotels that have indoor pools.
Extreme changes in temperature can also worsen asthma symptoms, so be cautious if your trip involves places that have very different weather from what you are accustomed to. If you’re traveling in very hot conditions, make sure to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks from activity.
Keep a copy of your medications list and your doctor information with you as you travel. If you’re going to be in one area for a long time, identify a doctor near where you’re staying in case you have any issues. Inform your travel partners about your medical needs in case they need to assist you, and consider wearing a medical identification bracelet.
Remember, there are treatments that can help you manage your asthma and allow you to live a normal life. The doctors at Alpha Internal Medicine can help you develop a plan for precautions you should take before you hit the road. Call for an appointment today or click here on the website any time to request one.
