Traveling to California
Hi. I haven't traveled since prepandemic and have been itching to go. I was only able to get one shot because I had an adverse reaction so I do worry about getting it. Also the last time I traveled to California, I had a flare. My allergist said that I would do better in California because the air is so good there but the opposite happened. Fortunately I was there for 2 weeks and had enough time to take prednisone before I returned home on a plane. This time I would only be gone for a week and there seems to be so much more climate issues since I traveled there last. I would either go in late July or early October. Both which are wildfire seasons. I remember a time before the pandemic and pre-asthma diagnosis when there was a heat wave and I felt terrible and had to sit down a lot. I also always seem to catch something when I travel. Just wondering if anyone has advice about when it's a better time to go. My allergist says California weather is so extreme and unpredictable so it will be a risk. My endocrinologist says I need to live my life. Currently, my asthma has been controlled and I haven't had a flare since I was in California but I do have other health conditions.
- This is a wonderful question you've presented - one that may be difficult to answer. As we are all different in dealing with our asthma journey, one trigger may not be another's. As you know, it's important to consider certain factors to ensure a more comfortable and asthma-friendly experience as you travel. Keeping watch on official travel advisories and staying informed about any potential health risks or emergencies in the region you plan to visit is always a good practice.
It definitely sounds like you are planning your trip with "eyes wide open" and indeed knowledgeable about possible reactions and effects from weather, allergens, and heat. Hoping some members who travel often out west can offer up some tips as to the best time to travel and what to expect during that time.
While you wait for responses, here are some articles that may help:
https://asthma.net/living/navigating-weather-changes
https://www.neefusa.org/story/health-and-environment/wildfire-season-coming-protect-yourself-environmental-asthma-triggers
https://asthma.net/living/poor-air-quality-part-1
Hi
, and welcome! I see you are a new member here, having joined today, just after midnight. We are glad to see you already engaging with the community through this, your first post.
I see my good colleague,, has already responded to your concerns and I concur with what she has said. I also see that Rebecca has provided you with good reading material given your expressed concerns about traveling to California. I do hope you have an opportunity to look over the information she has shared.
If there is anything we can do to assist you, please let me or any other moderator / team member know. You are always welcome here in our online community.
Wishing you well,
Leon (site moderator asthma.net)
