Can Planning Ahead Prevent Allergy Problems During Vacation?

Vacations are meant for relaxing, sightseeing, perhaps enjoying recreation in the woodlands, near the mountains or by the water. The last thing you want is for your trip to be ruined by an allergy or asthma attack. By planning ahead, you can help minimize the effects that changes in climate, foliage and accommodations may have on your allergies.

If your allergies are triggered by pollen, it pays to investigate the pollen counts of the destinations you plan to visit and avoid traveling there during peak pollen seasons. For example, if you are sensitive to ragweed, you would be wise to avoid the Northeast in September, the height of the ragweed season there. Likewise, if you're allergic to grasses, don't travel to California during spring when grass pollens are proliferating. The Weather Channel (www.weather.com) reports daily pollen counts and air quality forecasts across the United States.

Pack all the prescribed medications you'll need in your carry-on luggage if traveling by plane. If you're planning a long vacation, consider seeing an allergist/immunologist for a pre-trip physical. Sometimes, I increase the dose of medications before a patient leaves and prescribe a back-up medical program to begin if daily medications fail.

If you're using a peak flow meter to monitor your asthma, or a nebulizer to deliver asthma medication, don't leave them at home. Also bring along a copy of your asthma control plan and your physician's phone number. If you have allergies to stinging insects or certain foods, make sure your emergency injectable epinephrine is up to date with a working syringe and know where to obtain immediate medical attention if needed.

If you're traveling by rental car, ask for one that hasn't had passengers who smoke. Turn on the air conditioning and keep the windows closed during the pollinating season. When you make your reservations, ask that you have a room that is "allergy proof" and, if possible, take your own pillow with you.

If you're bothered by animal allergens found in pet dander, saliva or urine, it's best to avoid staying in hotels, inns, or homes that have been inhabited by pets. Even if the dog or cat has been put outside or removed from the room where you sleep, it takes months for the pet allergens to disappear. Remember: Cats and dogs are permitted to travel on planes, so take your medications prior to travel or with you when you fly.

Those with food allergies should be extremely cautious when dining out, whether the meal is served in airplanes, restaurants or at the homes of friends or family. Don't hesitate to ask about ingredients that may contain hidden food allergens, such as peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, wheat or shellfish.

A little planning goes a long way for those traveling with asthma or allergies. The American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology Web site at www.aaaai.org is a great resource to help determine the best time to travel, locate an allergist/immunologist in another city and review precautions for all types of allergic diseases.

Dr. Lockey is a Distinguished University Health Professor at USF Health, where he directs the Division of Allergy and Immunology and holds the Joy McCann Culverhouse Chair in Allergy and Immunology.