Managing Allergies While Hiking: Tips for Women Adventurers

As women who love the great outdoors, hiking brings us closer to nature and offers countless moments of joy and discovery. However, along with the breathtaking views and fresh air, there's always the possibility of encountering allergens that can put a dampener on our adventure. Whether it's pollen from blooming flowers, insect stings, medication or certain foods, being prepared to handle allergies while hiking is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Understanding Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions occur when our immune system identifies a substance as harmful and reacts to it by releasing histamine. The signs and symptoms can vary from mild to severe, with some cases leading to anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening condition. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

Mild Reactions (local reaction):

  • Sneezing, itchy or running nose

  • Itchy, red, watery eyes

  • Wheezing or shortness of breath

  • Swelling and pain at the site of contact with allergen

  • Redness of the skin, itchy rash, or hives

  • Nausea, vomitting

Severe Reactions (whole body reaction/Anaphylaxis):

  • Swelling of the throat and mouth

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Light-headedness

  • rash all over body

  • Blue skin or lips

  • Loss of consciousness

What to Do?

For Mild Reactions:

  1. Identify the Source: Determine what triggered the reaction.

  2. Immediate Action: If exposed to a chemical, wash the area with copious amounts of water. If it's an insect sting, try to remove the stinger if visible, or for ticks, freeze them using a product like Tickoff and then remove the dead insect.

  3. Apply Cold Compress: Place an ice pack on the affected area to reduce swelling and discomfort.

  4. Use Topical Treatment: Apply a topical ointment or spray to soothe the skin.

  5. Take Antihistamines: If available, take an antihistamine tablet to alleviate symptoms.

  6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on symptoms to ensure they don't worsen.

  7. Seek Medical Advice: If symptoms persist you may require further medical treatment, such as antibiotics

For Severe Reactions (Anaphylaxis):

  1. Follow DRSABCD: Assess the situation and act accordingly.

  2. Administer Medication: If the patient carries an adrenaline autoinjector (EpiPen), help them administer a dose to the thigh. If there's no improvement, another dose can be given after 5-10 minutes.

  3. Monitor the Patient: Stay with the patient and monitor their condition while waiting for medical assistance. If they lose consciousness, place them in the recovery position.

  4. Be Prepared for CPR: If the patient stops breathing, be ready to perform CPR until help arrives.

Final Thoughts

While hiking, it's crucial to be aware of potential allergens and know how to respond in case of an allergic reaction. Carry necessary medications, such as antihistamines or adrenaline autoinjectors, and inform your hiking companions about any known allergies. By staying vigilant and prepared, we can continue to enjoy the wonders of nature safely. Happy hiking, fellow adventurers!

Jo Vartanian