Asthma
Description
Even if your asthma is controlled at home, you may have attacks in Mexico because of temperature and humidity differences, exercise or strenuous activities, dust, mites, etc. If you have never had asthma, the common symptoms include
- Sudden and severe coughing episodes
- shortness of breath
- wheezing (high pitched whistling sounds when breathing
- shortness of breath after exercise
If you suffer from asthma, inform your physician before you travel.
Prevention
- Avoid asthma attack triggers such as pollen, mold, animal dander, and cigarette smoke
Self Treatment
- If you have been diagnosed as having asthma, use your long-term control medications (Carry them with you on the plane. Do not pack them in your luggage).
- Use you quick relief medications as instructed by your physician
- Do not buy over the counter aerosols to control your asthma. They can be dangerous.
Seek Help When...
- Wheezing is not controlled by your medications
- Shortness of breath continues for more than one hour after medication
- Symptoms persist or become worse
