Hiking is a great way to enjoy nature and get some exercise, but it can also pose a health risk to those with allergies. Allergic reactions can be triggered by a variety of things, from plants and pollen to insect bites and food items. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to keep your allergicit is in check while you hit the trail. Here are some tips for handling allergic reactions while hiking, including what you should carry with you, proactive steps you can take to reduce your risk of an allergic reaction, and what to do if a reaction does occur.
Prepping for the Trail: Pack Smart
Before you set out on your next hike, it’s important to take some time to pack smart and make sure you have everything you need to address any allergic reactions that may occur. In addition to the usual hiking gear, such as a first-aid kit, water, and food, you should also consider carrying items such as antihistamines, an EpiPen (if you have a known anaphylactic allergy), benadryl, and insect repellent that is approved for use on sensitive skin. Proactively carrying these items can help ensure that you are prepared should an allergic reaction occur.
Minimize Your Risk of Allergic Reactions While Hiking
While it may be impossible to completely eliminate your risk of an allergic reaction while hiking, there are steps you can take to minimize your chances of experiencing a reaction. For example, if you have an allergy to certain plants, it’s a good idea to become familiar with the local flora in the area where you will be hiking. This will help you identify and avoid plants that may trigger an allergic reaction. Additionally, you should consider wearing long sleeves, long pants, and gloves to protect your skinfrom allergens like poison ivy and insect bites.
If you have a food allergy, you should also be extra cautious when it comes to snacking on the trail. You may want to consider bringing pre-packaged snacks with clearly labeled ingredients to avoid accidentally ingesting a food item that contains an allergen. It’s also important to remember that some allergens, such as pollen and dust, can become airborne while hiking. To reduce your risk of exposure, try to choose hiking trails that are less wooded and are located in areas away from high pollen counts.
Protecting Yourself from Allergen Exposure
If you do have an allergic reaction while hiking, it’s important to know what to do to protect yourself. First and foremost, it’s important to remain as calm as possible. Getting worked up can exacerbate the symptoms of an allergic reaction. It’s also important to try to determine the source of the allergen exposure; if you know the cause of your reaction, it will be easier to treat it.
If you have an antihistamine or EpiPen with you, this is the time to take it. If not, take shelter in a safe spot and try to find a way to get to medical help as soon as possible. While you wait, it can be helpful to find a way to soothe the symptoms of your allergic reaction. For example, using a wet, cold compress can help relieve the itching and inflammation that often come with allergic reactions.
Talk to Your Doctor if You Have Allergies
If you are someone who frequently experiences allergic reactions while hiking, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about your risk. They may be able to help you identify the specific allergens that are triggering your reactions and recommend appropriate treatment options. For those with more serious allergiations, such as anaphylaxis, your doctor may recommend that you carry an EpiPen and provide you with an emergency action plan to follow in the event of a severe allergic reaction.
Allergies can be an annoying and, in some cases, dangerous part of life. However, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the fun of outdoor activities, such as hiking. By taking some proactive steps to minimize your risk of an allergic reaction and being prepared to treat one if it does occur, you can safely hit the trails without worry.