Where to Go with Allergy-Prone Children: Sea or Mountains?

More than half of the population deals with allergies. It's especially challenging when children suffer, as they miss out on playing outside. You can address allergies with a healthy diet, exercise, or by packing your suitcase. Vacations offer a chance for both young and old allergy sufferers. But where should you travel with children who have allergies? Will the sea or the mountains be more beneficial?

Sea air, sunshine, and relaxation offer more than just psychological benefits. They can alleviate the discomfort of allergies, particularly for children dealing with pollen allergies in spring.

Runny noses, swollen airways, coughing, and sneezing are clear signs that allergies are acting up. Treatment varies depending on the allergen, but reducing exposure is crucial. If a child has asthma or allergic rhinitis, choose a destination that suits their health needs. Always consult a doctor, but a seaside vacation is often a good choice.

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Where to Travel with Allergy-Prone Children? Which Sea is Best?

A break in coastal countries where allergens are minimal due to the warm climate can be a lifesaver. Many parents wonder where to go with children who have allergies to ease their symptoms.

Consider Croatia or Greece and the Mediterranean. These places showcase nature's healing power. For children with respiratory problems, the Aegean and Baltic Seas offer high iodine and calcium levels, with air containing fewer bacteria and pollen. For skin issues, the Adriatic or Dead Sea is ideal, rich in magnesium salts and selenium, providing therapeutic skin benefits.

Allergy sufferers benefit from a vacation lasting at least 10 days, ideally more than twice a year. Don't leave too soon if you want to activate the healing process.

Make the Most of It

The unique mix of seawater, sunshine, humidity, and warmth creates a healing cocktail. Know how to use it effectively. Walk with the children on the beach before breakfast and take deep breaths. In the early morning, the air is rich with healing particles that benefit the respiratory system, and it's not too hot. Inhalations and nasal rinses with pure seawater are part of the treatment. Children may remain free from infections for up to nine months!

Mountains Work Too, BUT...

Where to travel in spring with allergy-prone children? If mountains appeal to you, they can be an option. However, there's a catch. Fewer children in Alpine farming areas suffer from some allergies compared to urban areas. But due to the mountain climate, vegetation, and proximity to animals, a short stay isn't enough. Allergens include cows, sheep, and rodents. Pregnant women in these areas develop antibodies during pregnancy, which pass to the unborn child, granting lifelong resistance. Children born in mountain environments have a significant advantage.

If you've decided on the mountains and plan several weeks there each year, that's great. But avoid a common mistake. If pollen season peaks in the lowlands of Slovakia and is ending, moving to the Tatras might not help. The grass may just be blooming there, extending the pollen season. The same applies to coastal destinations.

Opt for high altitudes (above 1,500 m). Children will breathe easier, their skin will itch less, and they'll need fewer medications. Data from Davos Medical Association in 1906 shows asthmatics had rare attacks during their stay in Davos. Moreover, 80% reported long-term symptom improvement. Children, in particular, will feel significant relief. Among those living at altitudes of 800-1,200 m, morbidity is half compared to those living up to 180 m above sea level.

Worsening Condition as a Good Sign

Don't worry if symptoms worsen during or after the vacation. For children with recurrent illnesses or chronic sinus, nose, and airway problems, a change of environment can trigger chronic inflammation. The sun, seawater, and air can kickstart immune processes, leading to an initial worsening. This is a typical body reaction, similar to immunomodulatory medications that initially worsen conditions but lead to healing. The stimulated immune system will manage the acute reaction, and a period of health will follow.

More Useful Tips

• Don't forget your travel first aid kit – pack medications, including antihistamines, eye drops, and topical corticosteroids, nasal drops, mosquito and tick repellents, and check their expiration dates.
• Replace the down pillow in the hotel room with a synthetic one.
• Be cautious with the consumption of fish, nuts, and fruits that could trigger allergies.
• Avoid staying outside if it is too windy and dusty.
• Maintain hydration to prevent dry airways.
• Sunglasses and head coverings are essential.
• Check areas where the peak pollen season may be shifted by several weeks.

Vacation is Not Enough

Relying solely on the sea or mountains to eliminate allergies is optimistic. Some may not see any improvement. For instance, those with a dust mite allergy should take precautions both at home and on vacation. Not every hotel or accommodation can ensure anti-dust mite or anti-fungal measures. An old mattress can trigger allergies even on vacation. The beautiful sea and clean beach might not improve health. For some, allergies may even worsen at the sea, leading to skin reactions to sunscreen.

Conclusion

We hope this article answers where to travel with allergy-prone children. Every allergy patient should continue their treatment during vacation. However, for severe symptoms, consider if you can manage a trip abroad. Always consult your doctor to determine if the sea or mountains are suitable, and possibly which country to visit. Choosing the right area and following medical advice will reward you with a happy, healthy child.