Traveling with food allergies can be
dangerous if you don't take certain precautions in advance
(PRWEB) February 5, 2004--With spring
soon approaching, many people are already preparing for getaway travel during “Spring
Break.” Whether it is a break from school, work, or just the everyday routine, this
group of travelers will no doubt include people with severe food allergies. While a food
allergy can make preparation for vacation flight travel more complicated, allergy
sufferers should not be discouraged. If you suffer from food allergy, there are several
things you can do to insure a reaction-free flight.
Talk to your Allergist Before Traveling
One of the first things you should do before traveling is talk to your allergist. If you
suffer from allergies, you and your allergist should discuss your travel plans, including
the travel-related risks, and decide on what medications to bring with you. If a
self-injectable epinephrine shot is necessary, make sure that your allergist gives you a
signed consent form to bring with you to the airport.
Pack Your Own Flight Food
While flight food may not look like it contains allergic substances such as peanuts, tree
nuts, egg, or milk, never assume the food is allergen-free. An easy way to insure that you
are effectively avoiding consumption of your allergy food is to bring your own food. If
you have control of what is in your food and what the food container has come in contact
with then you will be more likely to avoid a reaction.
“The best way to prevent a food
allergic reaction is to know what you’re eating,” said Kim Lance, editor of
Allergy Newswire ( http://www.allergynewswire.com ). “The easiest way to be sure you
are not consuming an ingredient you are allergic to is to make your own food and bring it
on the flight in your own container. This way you are informed and in control of your
eating.”
Inform the Airline of your Allergy
Another way to help insure a reaction free flight is by contacting your airline directly
and making them aware of your food allergy. If you have a peanut allergy, make sure that
you book a flight on an airline that has an alternative snack food. If your reaction is
usually severe, request to be put on a flight where non-peanut snacks are served to
everyone on the flight. In order to insure that your request is honored, make sure you
contact the airline directly and are clear about your request, giving plenty of time for
them to be able to honor your request.
Take extra precautions such as wiping
down your seat and surrounding area before flight and make sure you notify the flight crew
of your allergy while on board to prevent any unexpected accidents.
Relax and Enjoy Your Trip
While traveling with a food allergy can make things more complicated, taking extra
precautions and notifying flight crew of your allergy can help you have a safe flight
without any incidents. After taking all precautions and consulting with your doctor and
the airline, even a person with a severe allergic reaction to some foods should be able to
relax and enjoy the flight.
About Allergy Newswire:
Allergy Newswire is the leading allergy health newsletter that is delivered free of
charge, via email. The educational publication focuses on the latest information and news
for allergy sufferers. Allergy Newswire is the official publication of the Allergy
Prevention Center ( http://www.allergypreventioncenter.com ), one of the Web's most
detailed, educational, and informative sites on battling allergy problems.
For informative coverage of allergies,
hay fever, pollen, and other allergic conditions, subscribe to Allergy Newswire at
http://www.allergynewswire.com.
