What you need to know
Travelling should be enjoyable and worry-free if you take a few precautions. Whether you are travelling interstate or overseas, here are the most important points to remember.
- Visit your doctor well in advance of your departure to ensure your asthma is under good control when you leave. Tell your doctor your destination in case there are any particular precautions needed.
- Check that any medical insurance you take out will specifically cover your asthma (contact your travel agent for advice).
- Ask your doctor to provide you with a letter outlining the history and severity of your asthma and your treatment
- Remember to take your personalised written asthma action plan
- Where possible, take with you all the medication you will require, as well as some extra
- Ensure that your medication is carried in your hand luggage and spare supplies in your suitcase
Special situations
- Travel to high altitudes is normally okay as long as your asthma is well managed at sea level. People with asthma are not usually affected
- Trekking, sightseeing or skiing should be problem-free when you have well-controlled asthma, a written Asthma Action Plan and adequate amounts of medication
- People with asthma should not scuba dive
For travellers with allergies
- Anticipate, where you can, any increased exposure to allergens, for example to pollens or indoor pets
- Warn airlines or resorts of any food hypersensitivities or intolerances well ahead of departure
If you have experienced anaphylaxis, make sure your self-administered adrenaline (EpiPen or AnaPen) and Anaphylaxis Action Plan are up to date.
Disclaimer
It is important to note that information contained in this brochure is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Any questions regarding a medical diagnosis or treatment should be directed to a medical practitioner.
