Asthma is a common childhood condition affecting about 4.9 million children in the United States under 18. If your child is among them, you already know that while there is no cure for asthma, a carefully honed management plan can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
That plan requires some fine-tuning when traveling. Traveling itself, whether by plane, train, or automobile, and experiencing new environments necessitate additional provisions.
In this month’s blog, Kalpana Kumari, MD, FAAP of Rise & Shine Pediatrics in South Plainfield, NJ, outlines the essential steps to control your child’s asthma while away from home
Here’s how to ensure coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath don’t ruin your child and family’s holiday adventures.
Schedule a checkup with Dr. Kumari for your child shortly before departure. She will review your child’s asthma history, adjust medication if needed, or provide a new prescription for a “just in case” scenario.
Fill your child’s asthma medication prescriptions, and stock up on any over-the-counter medications you regularly use. Be sure to pack the medicines, both long-lasting and quick-relief, in your carry-on bag if you’re traveling by plane or in your purse if you’re taking a road trip.
If your child uses a nebulizer, consider purchasing a travel-sized or portable one. If your destination is a foreign country, have the correct electrical adapter.
Bring your asthma care management plan and a list of all the medications and the proper doses your child uses. Note the generic name in case you need to purchase more medicine.
Avoid staying with friends or family who have furry pets! Consider packing a set of sheets, pillowcases, and your child’s blanket if necessary.
If you’re staying at a hotel, pick one that does not allow animals. Again, consider packing your child’s sheets and a blanket to ensure you have hypoallergenic bedding.
Check the pollen count and weather forecast wherever you are.
Air in the plane and cold, dry climates can irritate your child’s airway. Make sure your child stays hydrated. When traveling by plane, select a window seat near the front of the aircraft in advance for better air quality.
Give yourself and your child time to rest, and always pack quick-relief medication whenever you go out.
To schedule your child’s pre-travel checkup with Dr. Kumari at Rise & Shine Pediatrics. Call or click here to use the online booking tool.
