Traveling with Allergies and Asthma

If you're planning a vacation this summer don't let allergies keep you home.

There are ways to cope with almost any means of travel.

Before you leave, you might want to check in with your allergist for a check-up, and take with you a letter that gives a history of your medical condition, current treatments, and the medications you are taking. If you are prone to respiratory or sinus infections ask about taking a course of antibiotics with you, especially if you are going to less populated areas.

If pollen makes you sneeze, don't plan a trip to lush farm country during pollen season. If animal dander triggers symptoms, a dude ranch may not be for you.

There are so many other places you can go and things you can do.

But first you have to get there, so here are a few tips about traveling:

If you are flying:

• Those with food allergies can often order ahead for a special meal.
• For sinus control, drink lots of water for hydration.
• The higher the altitudes, the less oxygen, so be sure to remember your epinephrine, and carry on all other medications you may need.

If you are driving:

• Plan ahead by checking the local allergy forecast at your destination to be prepared for high pollen count days that may cause symptoms to flare.
• Before getting into your car, turn on the air conditioner and open the windows for at least ten minutes to help remove dust mites and molds that may be in the system.
• Keep windows tightly shut and the air-conditioning set to "recirculate" when traveling in slow traffic, dusty areas, or behind a truck or bus with heavy exhaust piping out.
• Turn off the air conditioner before you leave the car and let the blower run for a short time to dry the vents and prevent moisture collection.

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