Make sure you have enough medication and the right equipment before you travel
Whether you’re taking a holiday or a work trip, changes in routine, location, weather, temperature, pollution (especially bushfires during summer in Australia) and unknown allergens may produce unexpected asthma symptoms. Following these tips will help maintain good asthma control and an “asthma friendly” time away which is enjoyable and worry-free.
Visit your doctor before you go
- Have a check-up before you go away to make sure your day-to-day asthma is under control, that you have enough medications, and you’re taking them the right way.
- Make sure your written Asthma Action Plan is up to date.
- If you’re going overseas, it’s a good idea to get your doctor to write a letter stating the history and severity of your asthma as well as a list of your medications (using the generic brand name) and delivery devices. Carry this letter with you at all times in case of an emergency. You may need to present this report to customs in other countries if questioned about carrying medication.
Your medications
- Take extra medication in your luggage.
- Keep your normal day-to-day medication with you in your carry-on bag (in case luggage gets lost).
- Take prescriptions in case you lose your medication, or to prove it is for your own personal use.
Your equipment
- A spacer device is portable, inexpensive and is just as effective (and a better choice for travelling) than a nebuliser.
- If you do need a nebuliser, remember other countries may have different power points and voltages, so you’ll either need an adaptor, or a battery powered portable version. You’ll also need to talk to the airline before you board if you’re likely to need to use your nebuliser on board the aircraft.
- If you normally use a peak flow meter take it with you. Before you travel you should know what your normal peak flow is when you are well .
Be prepared – plan well!
- Carry your mobile phone with you (as well as your reliever puffer) and if you go somewhere on your own, tell someone where you are going.
- Make sure you know the emergency phone number for the country you are visiting.
- Make sure your travel insurance covers the cost of health care that stems from pre-existing asthma.
- Travel to high altitudes is okay as long as your asthma is well controlled at sea level.
- For your own general health and safety, before going overseas always check your destination on www.smartraveller.gov.au
Most importantly, enjoy your trip, relax, and don’t let your asthma stop you!