Home

Asthma News

Current News Story

Staying Well in the Woods

July 2009

Whether you’re heading to the cottage or going to summer camp, there is an abundance of asthma triggers waiting in the woods. Access to emergency services is usually limited at these locations. Also, your schedule can get off track during the summer holidays, including medication routines, and that can seriously impact your asthma.

Possible triggers to be aware of include:

• Indoor moulds - accommodations, mattresses
• Outdoor moulds – in the woods, in boats
• Pet allergens
• Pollen levels
• Campfire smoke
• Air pollution can also be high in rural areas
• Insect stings and food allergies

Make sure you continue the medication plan as directed by your doctor. Keep your asthma well controlled and follow these tips:

• Use your asthma action plan – if you don’t yet have one, see your healthcare provider before you leave
• Bring enough asthma medications to last the entire trip
• Learn what triggers you will be exposed to - e.g. Are the sleeping quarters mouldy or dusty? Are there pets?
• Locate the nearest emergency services
• Monitor your asthma – if you have asthma symptoms that don’t go away, you should seek medical help

If you are going to a summer camp, inform the staff about your asthma:

• Which medicine is taken daily and which is for emergencies
• What triggers can make your asthma worse
• Your emergency contacts
• You can bring them a copy of your asthma action plan, or call us for a copy of The Lung Association’s “Student Asthma Management Plan” if desired.

Make sure you know how to recognize the signs of worsening asthma and what to do about it.

If you would like more information or would like to speak with a Certified Asthma Educator, please call The Lung Association’s Asthma Action Helpline at 1-888-344-LUNG (5864) or visit www.on.lung.ca.

News Archive