Tell us about your symptoms and treatment experience. Take our survey here.

Asthma Airport Scare

Not too long ago while I was waiting in line at the TSA security checkpoint at the Chicago Midway airport, I almost had an asthma episode.

My smell sensitivity

I was placing my items in the bins that go through the x-ray machines when I smelled the tobacco odor that clung to the person's clothes next to me in the line. I am extremely sensitive to tobacco smell. It is the number one trigger for me.

As soon as I smelled it, I felt my bronchial muscles constricting. I stepped to the back of the line and looked at the TSA agent in front of me. The TSA agent asked me right away "Ma'am, are you OK?", which I answered (while looking at the smell wearer), "No, I have asthma, tobacco smell makes me very sick and my inhaler is going through the x-ray machine at this moment."

Getting help

Fortunately, the TSA agent understood the severity of the situation and asked me to go first through the scanning device. I commend this TSA agent's response. He saved my life that day!

I just wish and hope that smokers become conscientious of how detrimental to others' health is carrying tobacco smell with you!

Share your experience with us

By providing your email address, you are agreeing to our privacy policy.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The Asthma.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

Join the conversation

Please read our rules before commenting.

Community Poll

Are your spring allergies already impacting your asthma?