If you have allergies or asthma, you know they’re always with you, even when you travel. So, to ensure that your next trip is relaxing and enjoyable, you should plan for the changes in your environment that may affect your allergies or asthma.
Traveling…By auto, bus or train
When traveling by auto, bus or train, potential irritants or allergens can include dust mites, indoor molds, pollens and other substances.
Common allergens such as mites and molds can lurk in the carpeting, upholstery and ventilation systems of vehicles. Before beginning a lengthy auto trip, try turning on the air conditioner or heater and open the windows for at least 10 minutes prior to entering the car. This will help remove dust mites and/or molds that may be in the system.
Outdoor allergens, such as pollens and molds, are also potential hazards, especially when traveling with open windows. If you have been diagnosed with pollen or mold allergies, close your windows and turn on the air conditioning instead.
Cigarette smoke or outdoor air pollution can worsen allergy and asthma symptoms. To avoid excess air pollution when traveling by automobile, travel in early morning or late evening, when the air quality is better and you can avoid heavy traffic. If you use a nebulizer for your asthma, get a portable nebulizer that plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter or uses a portable battery pack.
