While asthma should not stop you from having a holiday, there are issues you will need to take into account before you jet off to sunnier climes.
Checking the state of your health with your doctor is important before you book a holiday. You need to know your limitations before you hand over money for a trip you can’t go on.
If you are visiting a country which requires you to have certain vaccinations, discuss this with you doctor. You can usually have the jabs recommended for travelling abroad, but you must make sure there are no health reasons for not having them.
When you take out travel insurance, make sure it covers your asthma. You may be asked to get permission to travel from your doctor.
You may find that your insurance premium goes up because of your medical condition, so shopping around for the best quote is sensible.
Most of us enjoy our summer holidays, soaking up the sun in a faraway country. But what if you suffer from asthma? Can air travel be safe?
The answer is, generally, yes. If you are always short of breath, you may need to be checked over before you fly, as reduced oxygen levels at high altitude can be dangerous.
But for all other asthma sufferers, there shouldn’t be a problem.
Make sure you take all asthma medications with you as hand luggage. You may need them during the flight, but you also need to ensure you don’t lose them and they don’t get damaged in the baggage hold.
Because of security restrictions, you will need to get approval from the airline you are traveling with and the airport to take your medication on board. You will also need a letter from your doctor or prescription.
Think ahead to any triggers you may come into contact with when you reach your destination.
Something as simple as the wrong type of pillow could lead to an attack and could, ultimately, ruin your holiday. If you are staying in a hotel, ask in advance for anything you may need to be changed in your room due to your condition.
If cigarette smoke sets off your symptoms and you are travelling to a country where a smoking ban is not in place, check that your accommodation is a non-smoking room.
And finally avoid activities that are not suitable for people with asthma, such as scuba diving. Activity providers should be able to tell you if you can take part, but it is better to check yourself before arriving.
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