5 Travel Tips for Patients with Asthma

It's sometimes frustrating, but most of us would agree that traveling is one of life's greatest pleasures. However, for people with asthma, travel comes with unique challenges.

Our services at America First Urgent Care include primary care and managing chronic conditions like asthma. We're happy to provide information about traveling with asthma and how to breathe easy on your next adventure.

Check these five travel tips for patients with asthma

1. Schedule a doctor’s appointment

Discuss with your America First Urgent Care provider before setting out. You may benefit from medication adjustments, advice on handling emergencies, or other pro tips on traveling with asthma.

2. Pack wisely

Always carry your inhaler and other essential asthma medications in your carry-on, and consider packing extra doses in your checked baggage as a backup.

If you’re traveling by car, train, or bus, make sure your meds, especially your quick-acting inhaler, are easily accessible. If you use a nebulizer, ensure it's portable and suitable for your destination's power outlets.

Speaking of medications, bring along a written prescription from your doctor, especially when traveling internationally. This can ensure refills should you need them during your trip and helps speed up your experience with airport security.

3. Research your destination

Keep asthma in mind when researching your travel destination.

For instance, consider factors like air quality, particularly if you're traveling to cities known for asthma triggers like smog or extreme temperatures. Download an asthma or air quality app on your phone to help you monitor local conditions.

Prepare for an emergency by:

• Familiarizing yourself with the location of medical facilities at your destination
• Learning the generic names of your medications since brand names vary by country
• Wearing a medical alert bracelet that indicates you have asthma
• Learning how to say “I am allergic to…” in the local language

If certain foods trigger your asthma, always be careful when trying new cuisines and alert restaurant staff about your concerns.

4. Choose asthma-friendly accommodations

When scheduling your hotel stay, indicate your asthma concerns and request a non-smoking and allergy-friendly room. Keep windows closed to avoid outdoor allergens, and ask about cleaning products, air fresheners, and other factors that can affect asthma and allergies.

5. Make it a healthy journey

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during your trip. If you're on a long flight, use your preventive inhaler before boarding and consider asking for an aisle seat so you can move around, helping with air circulation.

Avoid known triggers like smoke, cold air, and other factors that might exacerbate your asthma. If you're planning physical activities like hiking or sightseeing, ensure you're well-prepared for unexpected asthma reactions, and always bring your quick-acting rescue inhaler.

Traveling can be stressful, and stress can trigger asthma symptoms. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or meditation, or ensure ample downtime during your trip.

For more information about traveling with asthma, schedule a primary care visit at America First Urgent Care today. Call us or book an appointment online.