If your child has breathing problems traveling is likely a major cause for concern. However, traveling with kids with breathing problems is possible so long as you are prepared. If your child suffers from asthma or pediatric chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (“PCOPD”), it shouldn’t stop your family from traveling. Below are some of the best doctor-approved tips for parents traveling with children have breathing problems.
Traveling With Kids With Breathing Problems
It is not impossible to try traveling with kids with breathing problems. It can turn out quite safe if you take the proper measures. Follow all the tips below to minimize any risk for your kid during travel.
Talk to Your Doctor:
This is a non-negotiable step if you plan to travel with your child. Let your child’s doctor know where you plan to travel, how you plan to travel, and the duration of the trip. This will allow them to understand what your child needs and what extra precautions you’ll need to take based on your child’s unique health needs. It’s also highly important to let them know if your child has had any breathing issues recently or if they have been hospitalized.
Air Travel Accommodations:
If you plan to travel by plane and your child needs an oxygen tank or other large medical device, talk with the airline in advance. This should be done at least two weeks before you fly, but it’s best to talk with them before you buy the ticket to be sure they can accommodate your child’s needs. If you are traveling by car, keep the windows closed during the trip if possible. If your child is allergic to dust or mold, run the air conditioner or heater with the windows open for ten minutes before your child gets in the car.
Infections and Sanitation:
Travelling can impact everyone’s immune system, including those without breathing problems, so it’s important to be prepared. Talk with a doctor first, but it’s advisable to have your child get their annual flu shot. Also, you may want to discuss the pneumonia vaccine with your child’s doctor to see if it’s appropriate. When you travel with your child, have them wash their hands often, stay away from crowds, and stay away from anyone with the cold or flu. Traveling during flu season is riskier, but using caution can reduce the risk of your child getting sick.
Research Your Destination:
You should also research any stops along the way, but you need to research local hospitals and medical clinics in case of an emergency. Bring all of your child’s medicines, letters from their doctor regarding the reason they have been prescribed those medications, and any other relevant medical information. Do your research in advance and contact a doctor in your destination location to be sure of their availability and preparedness in the case of an emergency.
Use Caution:
When traveling, you’ll need to use caution to ensure your child is safe. For example, find non-smoking accommodations. Keep your child away from places that permit smoking or even outdoor areas where smokers congregate. You’ll also need to consider air pollution. Certain cities can have levels that are unsafe for children with breathing problems.
The ability to supervise your child while traveling can be beneficial to ensure they stay healthy for the duration of the trip. However, as children get older they may need to travel on their own due to activities such as:
- Summer camps
- Sports events
- Overnight school events
In that case, talk to the chaperone directly about your child and their health-related issues. Create an action plan for the chaperone. This plan should include:
- Ssteps to address things like an asthma attack
- Medicines
- Emergency contact information
Talk with your child about how to stay safe when they travel on their own.
Asthma Doctor Manhattan
If your child has asthma, PCOPD, or you have noticed issues with their breathing, contact a board-certified physician that specializes in pediatric pulmonary medicine. Because asthma is the leading chronic disease in children, specialists are equipped with the necessary information to diagnose and treat your child. Due to the nature of asthma, it is vital to get your child treated and create an action plan for their health. Asthma may seem scary. But there are treatment plans that can allow your child to live worry-free just like any other child.
Allergy Doctor New York
If your child has asthma, allergies, or any other respiratory issue, contact Dr. Shukla for help. He is experienced in addressing pulmonary and respiratory issues. Instead of fearing the worse, contact Dr. Shukla and his team for medical advice. He can diagnose and treat your child, so you can be prepared for any issue related to your child’s condition. Contact his office today for a consultation!
