The warm weather is officially here, and many are planning out their summer vacations. For those that suffer from food or seasonal allergies, the idea of planning to leave the house for the great outdoors or eating out at restaurants during a vacation may seem like a daunting task. Here are some tips to help make planning and going on vacation with allergies a little less stressful:
- Carry an allergy identification card. Always keep a card in your wallet that lists out what your allergies are, emergency contact information and your healthcare providers information.
- Find treatment facilities in advance. Always plan ahead and know where the local hospitals, urgent care centers and specialists are in the area you plan to travel.
- Pack your own snacks if you have food allergies. While it may be possible to plan meals around food allergies, snacks often present more of a challenge. Pack allergy friendly snacks, especially if lengthy plane rides are involved.
- Pack medication. Always pack your prescriptions, emergency treatment medications such as epi-pens, and any over the counter medicines you might need, including decongestants and antihistamines.
- If you have pet allergies, take medication prior to flying. You never know when you might find yourself on a plane next to someone who has pet fur on their clothing, or when a service animal might be flying in the cabin. Plan ahead and take your medicine to be safe.
- Talk to your doctor. If you have concerns about pollen, food allergies or other allergic reactions you might have while traveling, schedule an appointment with your provider at Atlanta ENT prior to traveling.
Ramie Tritt, M.D., President, Atlanta ENT
