Summer travel can be a memorable experience, but for those with asthma it may also bring additional concerns. Fortunately, by understanding your triggers – and with the appropriate asthma treatment options – you can reduce the risk of asthma flare-ups. Planning and preparation are essential for safe and comfortable travel. With that in mind, let’s look at some strategies that people in Atlanta can use to manage asthma during summer travel.
What Are the Best Strategies for Managing Asthma During Summer Travel?
For those with asthma, leaving familiar surroundings can add some unexpected factors into the mix. While components such as local weather and symptom severity can influence how you will approach summer travel, the following tips offer best practices for helpful asthma management.
Carry Asthma Medication
Always keep your asthma medication close by, whether you’re traveling by car, on an airplane, or relaxing at the hotel. For most people, asthma medications will include a rescue inhaler, additional inhalers, plus anti-inflammatory drugs like corticosteroids.
Develop an Asthma Action Plan
An asthma action plan is important for managing your condition and helping prevent asthma attacks. Work with your allergist to develop a plan that covers asthma triggers, symptoms, medications – and what actions to take in an emergency.
Be Aware of Asthma Triggers
For many people, summer pollen and dust can trigger a flare-up. Understanding the causes of asthma attacks and how to prevent them will help keep you safe and healthy during summer travel. Knowing your triggers can help you better plan any trip as you monitor pollen counts and outdoor conditions for signs of risk.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water throughout the day can prevent dehydration and also reduce inflammation. Water contributes to making mucus more thin, and this can help avoid congestion buildup. While dehydration itself is not a cause of asthma attacks, it may trigger other conditions that lead to shortness of breath.
Consider Asthma Triggers When Planning Outdoor Activities
Summer travel often involves outdoor activities like walking, hiking, sunbathing and sightseeing. Some of these activities could be physically demanding for a person with exercise-induced asthma, and could trigger an attack. Before setting out on your trip, consider how long you will be outside and whether or not you’ll be engaging in strenuous activities. Also determine if you are likely to encounter pollen, smoke, dust, mold and other triggers.
Use Air Conditioning
Air conditioning can offer relief from uncomfortable symptoms during summer travel. Maintaining a controlled environment will reduce exposure to outdoor triggers, whether in the car or a hotel.
Take Allergy Medication
If you have allergic asthma, your allergist may have recommended medication to minimize symptoms. Professional allergic asthma treatment could involve taking antihistamines, corticosteroids and other remedies. Make sure to have your prescribed allergy medication with you, as any new environment might exacerbate symptoms.
We Provide First-Rate Asthma Management in Atlanta
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center offers asthma testing and treatment for patients of all ages. Visit a treatment center in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth or Johns Creek for assistance. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
