Traveling with Allergies

Be it a road trip to Grandma’s house, or a flight to your dream beach vacation, here are a few effective tips on how to minimize your exposure to allergens and alleviate your allergyX allergy
An allergy is the exaggerated response of the immune system to a foreign substance that is generally safe and poses no threat to the human body. symptoms when traveling.

Tips for Traveling with Allergies

Think About Your Destination

Being near a large body of water, such as an ocean, may help reduce your exposure to pollenX pollen
A fine, powdery substance (typically yellow in colour) consisting of microscopic grains that are discharged from the male part of a flower (also known as stamens), or from the male cone of a tree. , depending on the types of trees and grasses around.

Going on a cruise can be an exciting alternative to consider, especially for people who are prone to seasonal allergiesX seasonal allergies
Also known as outdoor allergies, it is characterized by an exaggerated response of the immune system to allergens (see Allergens) that are commonly found outdoors, such as trees, grass or weed pollens, or mold spores. . Despite the fact that pollen particles can be transported out to sea, they’re highly unlikely to pose an allergyX allergy
An allergy is the exaggerated response of the immune system to a foreign substance that is generally safe and poses no threat to the human body. risk if the cruise ship is far away from land, as coastal winds can disperse them quickly. What’s more, some cruise ships even come with “allergy-friendly” cabins.

Fly the Allergy-Friendly Skies

Pet dander, moldX mold
A parasitic, microscopic fungi which floats in the air like pollen. Mold spores are a common trigger for allergies, and grows well in damp areas of the home, such as a basement or bathroom. It can also thrive in an outdoor environment, such as damp grass, leaf piles, hay, mulch, or under… spores, dust mitesX dust mites
A common trigger of indoor allergies. These microscopic mites live in the fibers of pillows, mattresses, blankets and carpets, and survive off of our dead skin cells. The inhalation of dust mite droppings can cause allergic reactions which include a runny nose, sneezing and nasal congestion. and pollen can stick to clothes, shoes, hair and luggage of people who board the same flight as you. To help minimize your exposure to these allergens, be sure to wipe down your tray table, arm rests and window area with cleansing wipes thoroughly before tossing them in a sealable bag.

The low humidity levels in airplane cabins may cause dehydration, which may cause your allergy symptoms to flare up.¹ Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and pack your allergy medicine in case you experience an allergic reaction when flying. Be sure to keep your medicine in its original packaging to avoid any complications with the Transportation Security Administration.²

DID YOU KNOW?

The allergens from pet dander could also be racking up some frequent flier miles with you, especially if there’s a furry pet in a carrier under the seat, or if the pet dander has managed to stick to another passenger’s clothes or shoes. In fact, one study showed the allergens from pet dander was detected on all the seats of a domestic flight airplane.

Time Your Drive

A few studies have also found that pollenX pollen
A fine, powdery substance (typically yellow in colour) consisting of microscopic grains that are discharged from the male part of a flower (also known as stamens), or from the male cone of a tree. particles, as well as air pollution that is caused by exhaust emissions from vehicles, can interact and make allergies worse. To help minimize your exposure, plan your drive for in the morning or late in the evening, when the roads are usually free. Be sure to keep the air-conditioning on, and the windows closed, so pollen spores can’t enter your vehicle.

Call the front desk to check if your hotel provides “allergyX allergy
An allergy is the exaggerated response of the immune system to a foreign substance that is generally safe and poses no threat to the human body. -free” rooms before booking your trip. Be sure to use the air conditioner instead of opening your hotel room’s windows to help minimise your exposure to pollen. You can also opt to pack a zippered, anti-allergenX allergen
A foreign substance which your body perceives to be harmful; can trigger an allergic reaction. pillow case along to lessen your exposure to dust mitesX dust mites
A common trigger of indoor allergies. These microscopic mites live in the fibers of pillows, mattresses, blankets and carpets, and survive off of our dead skin cells. The inhalation of dust mite droppings can cause allergic reactions which include a runny nose, sneezing and nasal congestion. .

Keep Allergy Medication on Hand

It’s a good idea to keep allergy medicine in your purse or backpack, so you’re prepared wherever your travels take you. Children’s Clarityn® Syrup 24-hour is safe for kids aged 2 years and older.

REFERENCES

Sánchez-Borges, Mario & Cardona, Victòria & Worm, Margitta & F. Lockey, Richard & Sheikh, Aziz & Greenberger, Paul & J. Ansotegui, Ignacio & Ebisawa, Motohiro & El-Gamal, Yehia & Fineman, Stanley & Geller, Mario & Gonzalez-Estrada, Alexei & Tanno, Luciana & Thong, Bernard. (2017). In-flight allergic emergencies. World AllergyX Allergy
An allergy is the exaggerated response of the immune system to a foreign substance that is generally safe and poses no threat to the human body. Organization Journal. 10. 10.1186/s40413-017-0148-1.
Travelling Abroad With Medicine. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed Mar 30, 2022