Preventing Allergies from Ruining a Road Trip

Allergies can spoil spring and summer fun, but they can be prevented, say National Jewish Health allergists. Here are a few tips for reducing the misery from pollen allergies when you travel:

• Hay fever sufferers may do better at the shore, since the wind often blows in from the sea. Or one can head for the mountains, where pollen counts tend to be lower.
• When you know where you will be traveling, find out which plants will be pollinating. For example, Hawaii has grass pollination year round.
• Southern states typically have the longest pollination period. Grasses pollinate 10-11 months of the year.
• Trees pollinate early, but have limited seasons. For example, Elm trees pollinate for 2-3 weeks. The exception to this is a milder winter, which can cause pollination to peak higher and last longer.
• Know when the plants that trigger your allergies are in bloom and avoid visiting at that time of year. Time your trip to coincide with low levels of pollen.
• If traveling by car, close the windows and use the air conditioner.
• Plan ahead and fill allergy and asthma prescriptions before leaving home.

This information has been approved by Ann Mullen, R.N., M.S., AE-C  (March 2006).