COPD: On the Road with Asthma
Tips for breathing easy on your next trip
BY:MYRA DEMBROW
If you're planning a trip, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) offers several tips to minimize possible respiratory irritation, including:
Prepare your car. Open the windows and run the air conditioner or heater for at least 10 minutes before you get under way. Any dust mites or molds lurking in the climate-control system will be flushed out.
Schedules count. Plan your drive for early in the morning or after the evening rush, when lighter traffic means less air pollution.
Stay grounded. If you have a sinus or ear infection, don't fly unless it's unavoidable. If you can't delay your trip, take a decongestant about an hour before takeoff.
Keep nasal passages moist. During a flight, use a saline nasal spray every hour.
Check things out. Before checking in, ask if the hotel has allergy-proof accommodations and book a sunny room away from the indoor pool.
Expect the unexpected. Pack enough medication for a few days beyond your itineraryand store it in the original containers.