DOES SUMMER EXACERBATE ASTHMA SYMPTOMS? KNOW HERE

The summer season tends to impact your health adversely in many ways. Extreme heat conditions can lead to heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, particularly in vulnerable populations like children, elderly and those with chronic health conditions. Summers can also aggravate certain health conditions due to high temperatures, humidity and other factors. People with asthma often see their symptoms worsen during summers.

Asthma is a condition wherein the airways swell and become narrow. It can also produce extra mucus. The condition usually makes breathing difficult. It can also lead to coughing, shortness of breath and a whistling sound (wheezing) when you breathe out.

According to experts for some people, asthma is a minor nuisance. “For others, it can be a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack.”

Here, take a look at why symptoms of asthma tends to aggravate during summer.

Heat and Humidity

High temperatures and the humid air in summer can make it harder to breathe. When the weather is hot and sticky, the airways can swell and narrow, making it difficult for people with asthma to breathe. This can cause symptoms like coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

Air Pollution

Summer usually has higher levels of air pollution, including ozone and particulate matter. These pollutants can irritate the lungs and worsen asthma symptoms. On days with high pollution levels, which are more common in summer due to more sunlight and still air, people with asthma might have more severe symptoms.

Pollen and Other Allergens

Plants and trees release more pollen during the summer months. Pollen can cause allergic reactions and asthma attacks in people who are sensitive. Other than pollens, allergens like mould spores also increase in warm, moist weather, adding to the condition.

More Physical Activity

People tend to be more active during summer, spending more time outdoors. Increased physical activity can cause the airways in the lungs to temporarily narrow during or after exercise, eventually causing asthma symptoms.

Changes in Routine

During summer breaks and vacations, the regular routines are disrupted which might affect how people manage their asthma. For example, forgetting to take preventive medications or being exposed to different environments with triggers can lead to frequent asthma symptoms.

Ways to manage asthma during summer

Stay Cool and Hydrated

Keep yourself cool by staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day and using air conditioning if available. Drinking plenty of water can also help keep your airways moist and less likely to get irritated.

Monitor Air Quality

Check the air quality index (AQI) regularly. On days when the AQI is high, try to stay indoors as much as possible to avoid exposure to pollutants as it can trigger asthma symptoms.

Manage Allergens

If pollen or mould triggers your asthma, keep windows closed and use air purifiers to reduce indoor allergens.

Continue Your Medications

Stick to your prescribed asthma medication routine, and make sure you always have your inhaler with you. Regular use of preventive medications is important to manage asthma.

Keep a Check While Exercising

If you’re prone to exercise-induced asthma, try and exercise during cooler times of the day, such as early morning or evening.

2024-04-24T06:51:54Z dg43tfdfdgfd