How to Manage Allergies When You Travel – simply apply the tips outlined below to protect yourself from a reaction.Allergies do not stay at home when you travel. In fact you may be exposed to more or different triggers when you visit a strange destination. New reactions can occur any time even to items that you may have tolerated in the past.
• Asthma • Anaphylaxis
• animal dander • insect bites • foods i.e. shellfish, peanuts, gluten, lactose etc. • Other items
• Watery, red eyes • Hives • Itchiness • Swelling of the lips, throat and tongue – this is a medical emergency known as anaphylaxis. Seek medical attention. • Shortness of breath
• Visit your doctor before you travel and review your plans. Ask him/her to recommend a specialist at your destination if possible. • Notify the airline of your triggers, especially the foods. Contact customer relations and inquire into the steps you should take while you fly with them. • Refuse airline meals and bring your own food. • Notify the flight attendant if you are having a reaction in case assistance is required. • Keep your medications (antihistamine, inhaled or oral steroids, EpiPen) handy when you travel. You never know when you may need them. • Individuals with a history of anaphylaxis should always carry an EpiPen whether they are traveling or not. • Purchase a first aid kit and keep a supply of antihistamine inside. • Purchase travel medical insurance.
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