If your asthma is well controlled there’s no reason you can’t explore
the world – it just takes a little preparation
Travelling is one of life’s great pleasures, and having asthma shouldn’t stop you. Just make sure your asthma is under control and you have planned ahead carefully.1–4
BEFORE YOU BOOK
Think about the kind of destination you’re looking for and the environment you’ll be going into. Very hot and very cold climates can both have an impact on asthma, as can the high altitudes of ski resorts and the air pollution of city breaks.1–5
It can help to have a good level of asthma control too.2,3 Try our Asthma Control Test and perhaps have a word with your doctor if there’s anything you feel could improve. Your doctor could also help with a written asthma plan, so you’re ready to take action if needed.1–3
Make sure your travel insurers know about your asthma too – it might invalidate your insurance if you don’t declare a pre-existing condition like asthma.6
packing for the trip
It’s a good idea to pack more medication than you need – just in case!3 Suitcases can go astray sometimes, so it’s best to keep all your medications in your hand luggage – along with your prescriptions (or note from your doctor) to show at security.1,3,7
when you are there:
KNOW THE DRILL FOR EMERGENCIES
Work out what you’ll do, who you’ll contact and where you’ll go if you have an asthma flare-up.1 Do it as soon as you can, so you can then relax into your trip knowing all is in hand.
CHECK YOUR ENVIRONMENT
You can’t always know the state of your accommodation until you get there, so give it a quick look-around to check for potential asthma triggers like dust, mould, air pollution and smoking areas.1,3,5
TRY TO STICK TO YOUR NORMAL ROUTINE
While it’s exciting to explore new places, it’s not advisable to suddenly take on intense exercise like hiking or skiing when you’re not used to that level of exertion.2,4 It’s also easy to get caught up in what you’re doing and forget your medication. Remember to keep it to hand wherever you go.
IS YOUR ASTHMA GETTING IN THE WAY OF LIFE?
If you’re concerned that your asthma symptoms might be holding you back, speak to your doctor for more information.
The asthma control test (ACT) is a quick way to see how the symptoms of asthma are affecting your everyday life. Click on the link below to get the results in seconds – and be sure to share them with your doctor.
