A Dream Vacation with Food Allergies? It’s Possible
Source: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology
Topics: Childhood Allergies, Family Vacations, Making the Most of the Family Vacation
Whether it’s a week at Disney World or a trip to Europe, vacations are a chance to create memories and experience new things. But for families with food allergies, what should be a relaxing break can become a harrowing adventure.
A recent study has shown that families with a food allergic child often limit the number of vacations they take. Many don’t travel outside the United States and others avoid certain types of transportation, such as planes and boats. But it isn’t necessarily a fear of the unknown that keeps these families close to home. Some say that the availability of medical care is the reason they don’t venture too far from home.
Prepare yourself
What’s the secret to successful travel with food allergies? Planning ahead and taking precautions are key. This includes having your autoinjectable epinephrine on hand, requesting special accommodations from airlines and hotels and packing allergen-free snacks.
Remember to always personally carry your medication(s) in their original packaging. Losing your luggage would be an inconvenience, losing your medications could be a medical crisis. Be aware of the locations of hospitals near your destination and get the contact information for local medical professionals. Pack extra copies of medical documentation, so you’ll have this information on hand in the event of an emergency.
Traveling abroad
If you’re traveling to a foreign country, consider carrying a card that explains in the local language what foods you can’t eat. Show this to your server, and if possible the chef, at any restaurant you visit. You can also research regional cuisines in order to get an idea of the dishes you’ll want to avoid. If possible, learn the word for your allergen in the language of the country you’re visiting and be able to recognize it on food packaging. However, be aware that food labeling laws in other countries may not be the same as those in the United States. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and when in doubt, just say no.
PACK smart
If you or your child has food allergies, you can also follow these steps to PACK smart and avoid reactions.
Plan ahead. Think about where you are going and how you will get there. If you’re traveling by airplane, try to keep all medications in their original packaging to make the screening process easier.
Anticipate problems and hidden allergens. Does your host know about your child’s food allergies? Does the airline you’re flying serve peanuts as a snack? Do your relatives have pets that could make your child’s other allergies worse?
Continue taking medications on schedule. Many kids with food allergies also have asthma and other allergies, and just because you are on vacation does not mean your child’s allergies take a break. Traveling may mean you are exposed to different (and more) triggers than normal. Make an appointment with your allergist before you travel to discuss specific precautions you can take.
Keep your allergist’s phone number or other emergency contact information on-hand. Know who to call in the area you’re visiting if you have an emergency and need to make an appointment. Call ahead to verify they accept your insurance.
The AAAAI offers food allergy fact sheets, educational brochures and other resources for parents online at www.aaaai.org.
Andrew W. Murphy, MD, FAAAAI, is an allergist/immunologist based in Downingtown, PA, and a member of the Teaching Faculty at A.I. duPont Hospital for Children.
Reprinted with the permission of the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. © 1996-2008 American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology. All Rights Reserved.
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