Travel Checklist For Asthmatics

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease which causes an obstruction in breathing. During an asthma attack, the lining of the bronchial tubes swells, which leads to the narrowing of the airways and reduces the flow of air in and out of the lungs.  The same report concluded that out of India’s entire population, 6% of children and 2% of adults have asthma.

Although asthma is a lifelong condition, it can be kept under control with the right treatment. However, people suffering from asthma need to take a few precautions before they travel to prevent and prepare for an attack.

1. Visit The Doctor Before You Leave

Check-in with your doctor before you travel. Ensure that you create a clear asthma action plan that entails the medications and steps that need to be taken in the event of an attack. Have the doctor write clear instructions that can be given to an emergency room staff member, should the need arise. Additionally, if you are travelling to a destination where there is widespread flu, it is important to take the appropriate vaccine before you leave.

2. Recognize The Symptoms Of Asthma

It is important to be aware of all your asthma symptoms and monitor them to see if they are improving or worsening. Common symptoms of asthma include wheezing, shortness of breath, cough and tightness in the chest. If you are travelling with a friend or family member, brief them on your symptoms as well so that they can take any necessary action.

3. Keep Your Medication Handy

Pack all your asthma medications with their original labels on and keep your doctor’s prescription along with them. Instead of stowing these away in your checked-in luggage, keep them in your carry-on bags so that you can reach for them at any time. Discuss with your doctor and determine as to whether it is necessary to carry extra doses of your medication in case of any emergencies. Ensure that you have a spare of both, your controller and reliever inhaler so that you are not left helpless in case you lose them.

If you use a spacer or nebuliser, remember to keep these devices on hand. You may need to carry a powerpoint adaptor for certain countries for your nebuliser.

4. Do Research On The Destination

There are many environmental factors that can cause an asthma attack. It is important to identify your triggers and find out if you will encounter any of them on your trip. Cold weather, changes in humidity, pollen and air pollution are common triggers that can exacerbate the symptoms of asthma. In addition, it is important to ask for a non-smoking room if you are staying in a hotel, as tobacco smoke can trigger an attack. If you are staying with a friend or family member, be sure to check as to whether they have any pets in the house as pet dander can also lead to an asthma attack in certain individuals.

5. Check The Medical Facilities Around You

Before you leave, inquire as to how you can get local medical help at your destination. Note down the numbers of nearby hospitals and also find out as to where you can buy more supplies of your asthma medication, in case you lose or damage them. It can be easier to buy the right medication if you write down the generic names of the medications as they could be branded under different names in different countries. If you have travel and/or medical insurance, specifically check if it will cover your asthma.

With careful planning and a few precautions, your asthma can be kept under control whilst you travel.