Asthma
 
If you have asthma, it's entirely normal to worry about what would happen if you had an attack while on holiday. The good news is that with a little preparation and extra care, going away and enjoying yourself shouldn't be a problem.  
 
Simple steps to take before you go 
 

• Make sure you have enough medication so you don't run out while you are away. Keeping your inhalers and other medicines in your hand luggage is always a good idea, in case the luggage you put in the hold goes missing.  
   
  
• Pack your prescription just in case your medication goes missing. This is also very useful if you are visiting a country where English isn't widely spoken. Find out from your practice nurse if there is a generic name for the medicine you are taking, so you're prepared if the brand name you're used to isn't available – sometimes familiar medicines have different brand names in different countries.  
   
  
• Make a note of emergency numbers at your destination and give the details to your travelling companion(s).  
   
  
• Check the pollen count at your destination in advance and consider going somewhere else or at a time of year when pollen counts are lower. If you are going somewhere you've never been before, try to find out if there are any local plants that might affect your asthma.

 
While you're away 
 

• Go for walks or take other gentle exercise, to keep your lungs healthy. You should, however, avoid heavy exertion and you should always consult your doctor before making any changes to your exercise routine. 
   
  
• Always take your inhaler with you to be on the safe side, even if you might be going somewhere where you think you won't need it. 
   
  
• Take the opportunity to give up smoking (if you do), which is always easier when you are away from the stresses and strains of everyday life – this will make a huge difference to your asthma.