Dust mites can lurk in carpeting, upholstery and ventilation systems of cars. Before starting on a long road trip, turn on the air conditioner or heater and open the windows for at least 10 minutes to help remove dust mites and molds that may be in the system. Outdoor allergens, such as pollens and molds can provoke symptoms, so don t flood your car with them. Keep the windows closed when driving. Use your air conditioner, not an open window, if you need to cool down.
Air pollution can make asthma and allergy symptoms worse.
To avoid excess pollution, travel early in the morning or later in the evening when the air quality is better and you can avoid heavy traffic. If you use a nebulizer for your asthma, get a portable version that plugs into your car s cigarette lighter or uses a portable battery pack. Home away from home Hotel rooms may often have large concentrations of dust mites and molds in carpeting, mattresses and upholstered furniture that can worsen your allergy and asthma symptoms. When you make reservations, ask if there are allergy-proof rooms available. If you are allergic to dust mites, you may want to take along your own dust-proof, zippered covers for pillows and mattresses, or your personal bedding.