As you celebrate your acceptance to your dream college, it’s an exciting time, but if your college journey involves leaving your hometown, it’s essential to prepare for managing your allergies and asthma effectively. At Shoreline Allergy & Asthma Associates, we understand the importance of ensuring that your health takes priority as you embark on this new chapter in your life.
Managing Allergies and Asthma for College-Bound Students
Leaving for college involves numerous arrangements and decisions, and your allergies and asthma should not be overlooked. It’s crucial to take proactive steps to ensure your well-being as you study away from home. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), managing your health issues should start well before you leave for college, considering the various details that need attention to keep you in good health throughout your academic journey.
Six Tips for Effective Allergy and Asthma Management
Here are six expert tips from ACAAI to help you navigate and manage your allergy and asthma symptoms effectively in your new college environment:
Coordinate with Your Allergist
- Prioritize meeting with your allergist several weeks or months before college begins.
- If you’re going to a distant college, request a referral to an allergist near your school.
- Ensure your prescriptions are up-to-date and suitable for your new location’s climate.
Understanding Your Healthcare
- Work closely with your parents to understand how your health insurance works.
- Determine your healthcare providers and whether your college offers a health plan.
- Familiarize yourself with nearby urgent healthcare options to avoid last-minute searches during emergencies.
Become Your Health Advocate
- Take on the role of the primary point person for your health.
- Handle tasks such as prescription pick-ups and refills.
- Communicate effectively with those around you about allergenic triggers and necessary precautions.
Maintain a Clean Dorm Room
- Contrary to popular belief, dorm rooms should be kept clean to avoid allergen exposure.
- Utilize allergen-reducing products like sheet covers and air filters.
- Check if your residence hall’s proximity to roads might affect your asthma.
- Inquire about the availability of replaceable filtration systems for dorms with forced air heating.
- Confirm if your dorm is equipped with air conditioning, as some schools provide it to students with medical needs.
Dietary Considerations
- Ensure that the food provided by your college is safe for your consumption.
- If you have food allergies, notify school officials to arrange special accommodations.
- Communicate with food service staff about safety standards and inquire about ingredients in every meal.
Maintain Awareness
- Avoid substances that impair your judgment, such as drugs, alcohol, or lack of sleep, as they can increase the risk of accidental allergen exposure.
- Be aware of potential risks associated with intimacy, including the transfer of food allergens through saliva.
- While discussing sensitive topics like drugs, alcohol, and sexual activity can be challenging, consider reaching out to your allergist for resources and guidance.
Consulting with a Board-Certified Allergist
A board-certified allergist can play a crucial role in identifying and treating your allergic symptoms. They can help create a comprehensive action plan tailored to your specific needs, enabling you to lead a fulfilling and healthy college life. If you’re uncertain about whether you need an allergist as you head off to college, refer to this article for guidance.
At Shoreline Allergy & Asthma Associates, we are dedicated to providing Connecticut and Rhode Island residents with the support and expertise needed to thrive while managing allergies and asthma during college years.
