Traveling With Seasonal Allergies

Traveling with seasonal allergies can be very challenging. Whether you are traveling abroad or inside the United States of America, you may be highly exposed to a wide range of new allergens, which can further worsen your condition. In any case, traveling with the runny nose or watery eyes will also cause embarrassments for you. Therefore, it is very important for you to make sure that you are thoroughly prepared before you go for traveling. Whether you are traveling by air, by sea, or by land, you must keep in mind the following things, as they can effectively minimize your sufferings.

Plan Your Travel During Cooler Months
When it comes to traveling with seasonal allergies, the best thing you can do is to plan your trip during the cooler months. Don’t schedule your travel during the allergy season. If you can’t avoid traveling during warmer months, you should at least try to schedule your trip in peak fall or summer because the allergens are present in lesser quantities then. Traveling during early spring or fall must be avoided at all costs.

Get Yourself Checked Up
If you are considering traveling with seasonal allergies, you must schedule an appointment with an allergist first. Get yourself thoroughly checked up. The doctor may suggest some changes in the existing prescription that you are following based on the result of the check up. Make sure that you explain all your conditions thoroughly to the doctor. If you think there is a need of some emergency medications such as an epinephrine auto-injector (epi-pen), talk to your doctor about it. Always remember, this is not an over-the-counter drug. You will need to show your doctor’s prescription in order to buy it.

Traveling by air
If you are planning to travel by air, you must consult your airlines much in advance – before even booking the tickets. When it comes to traveling with seasonal allergies, the airlines may have certain rules and regulations for the same. So, it will be wise to be well aware of them beforehand. Explain your condition to them. Show the doctor’s prescription and ask if there are any specific steps that you have to take additionally. If you always carry your emergency medications with you, you should ask specifically about it.

Allergy Regimen
You also need to be very careful about your allergy regimen. Adjust your regimen at least a couple of weeks before your trip is scheduled. Follow your doctor’s advice thoroughly in this regard. You have to maintain the suggested regimen not only during the period while you are traveling but also a couple of days after you return home. This will prepare your body well for the necessary changes.

While you are traveling with seasonal allergies, you should also try to strengthen your immune system. Focus on eating healthy foods. Avoid all those activities that are likely to trigger your allergies. For example, you should avoid attending outdoor events and patronizing smoky bars. Most importantly, do not forget to carry enough stock of medications with you while you are traveling.