Heading off on holiday?

Whether you are heading off to the beach, the country, interstate or perhaps even overseas, good preparation is vital for people with asthma. Here are a just few good tips.

Before you go

• Make sure your written Asthma Action Plan is up to date.
• Having your asthma under control before you leave is important.
• Have your GP check your asthma. You do not need to be unwell to have your asthma checked.
• A letter from your GP, listing the medications you are taking and why, may be useful for an emergency and for customs if you are travelling overseas.
• If you normally use a nebuliser, check that there are appropriate power outlets.
• Make sure that any medical insurance you take out will specifically cover your asthma (contact your travel agent or Asthma Foundation for advice). 

On the way

• Keep your medication and written Asthma Action Plan with you in your hand luggage whether you are travelling by plane, train or just by car.
• Spare medication can be packed away, but you do not want to be rummaging in the boot of your car in an emergency.
• Also, keep in mind that luggage may be lost, so divide your medication between what you carry on board and what you place in your suitcase.

At your destination

• Plan your activities so that you know where and how to get help in an emergency. (Remember, people with asthma should not scuba dive.)
• If staying with friends be aware of your asthma triggers like cat, dog or horse allergens. Also, dust mite numbers are often higher in coastal areas and humid environments.
• Take a peak flow meter to provide you with a regular indication of how well your asthma is being controlled.
  See the new peak flow chart and download a copy to record your PEF readings.
   

Useful Resources  

For comprehensive information to assist the traveller with asthma see

The Traveller with Asthma

 Asthma Management Holiday Checklist 22.28 Kb

First Aid for Asthma

Asthma Action Plans 
 

For more information or support, contact your local Asthma Foundation on 1800 645 130.
 

Asthma Foundations of Australia

Asthma Foundation of the ACT

Asthma Foundation of New South Wales 

Asthma Foundation of Northern Territory 

Asthma Foundation of Queensland

Asthma Foundation of South Australia 

Asthma Foundation of Tasmania

Asthma Foundation of Victoria 

Asthma Foundation of Western Australia 

For more information on allergies go to
Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy

Content Updated 1 December, 2007