Asthma affects nearly 26 million people in the United States, and most of these patients experience allergic asthma. This type of asthma is triggered by common allergens such as dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, tobacco smoke, and pollen. Fearing an asthma attack shouldn’t get in the way of having a great vacation, but traveling can make predicting triggers more difficult. Different types of environments can be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, you can reduce symptoms and avoid triggers.
Know Your Triggers
The best way to anticipate or prevent an attack is to know what triggers your symptoms. Knowing the causes of asthma flare-ups helps you avoid them. Attacks are often triggered by cold air, exercise, allergens, the common cold, bronchitis, and strong odors such as fragrance and tobacco smoke. Food and beverages aren’t typical triggers; however, some patients experience worse symptoms when they consume sulfites.
Warm and humid climates don’t do respiratory illness patients many favors. The Mississippi Delta is notoriously hot and humid, which is why it’s a good idea to plan your travels during less intense seasons to reduce triggers. When in search of an interesting trip, the state of Mississippi offers the casual traveler plenty of options. Mississippi is the birthplace of the blues and offers blues fans, historians, and music lovers alike an unforgettable journey through the Delta blues.
At Visit Mississippi (Mississippi Development Authority), you can plan your trek through the Mississippi Blues Trail. Some of the must-see attractions and museums die-hard blues fans will experience include the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale, Robert Johnson’s grave at Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Greenwood, and the birthplace of B.B. King in Berclair. In addition to the Blues Trail, music lovers can also enjoy the grammy museum, exhibits, live blues music venues, and other historical markers along the way.
Follow Your Treatment Plan
Asthmatics can manage their symptoms and triggers with daily medications and inhalers. Staying as healthy as possible and following your treatment plan is the best way to ensure you are prepared for your vacation. It’s a good idea to check in with your doctor before traveling and get any necessary prescription refills and immunizations. You should always keep your medications and medical devices on your person at all times when traveling.
Some patients with asthma and pulmonary diseases rely on nebulizers as an alternative or supplement to inhalers. This medical equipment uses a compressor machine to turn liquid medications into an inhalable vapor. The Home Care Pharmacy offers patients different types of nebulizers, compressor machines, and breathing masks from top brands that can be delivered right to their homes. They offer different types of nebulizers, including travel and home nebulizers that are battery-powered or work with an AC adapter. You can also find the necessary mouthpieces, accessories, tubing, and filters for your inhalation solution.
Check Air Quality Reports
Air quality plays a big role in your ability to breathe and combat symptoms and triggers. It’s a good idea to check air quality reports when planning a vacation to avoid any surprises. Most weather apps and websites now feature daily air quality reports so you can prepare for the day ahead. When choosing accommodation at your destination, it’s important to book a non-smoking, pet-free accommodation. Most hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs feature smoke-free and pet-free options. It’s a good idea to travel with a dust mite-proof pillow and bedding covers that you can use in a hotel or private rental. This will help reduce your exposure to attack-triggering allergens, and best of all, they’re affordable and barely take up space in your luggage.
The best way to travel as an asthmatic is to know your triggers, always carry your medication and medical devices with you, and check your destination’s air quality reports.
