What You Need to Know About Seasonal Asthma Triggers

Asthma is a chronic respiratory illness that causes inflammation of the airways in the lungs and results in the person experiencing asthma symptoms like wheezing, persistent coughing, breathlessness, and more. Though the condition cannot be cured, it can be easily managed with medications and inhalers. While people can experience the symptoms throughout the year, some people only experience them in particular seasons or due to particular triggers. This type of asthma is termed as allergic asthma.

Among the different types of asthma, allergy-induced asthma is one of the most common ones. Allergens are one of the most common asthma triggers and can change through the year depending on the season. Here are a few seasonal asthma triggers to watch out for.

Spring Triggers

Pollen – Pollen allergies are a major trigger of asthma. It is advised that you avoid going outdoors during peak pollen hours. Make sure you keep your doors and windows shut to keep the pollen from entering your home.

Thunderstorms – Commonly known as thunderstorm asthma, in this phenomenon, heavy rains can break down pollen into tiny pieces. These grains are then scattered by the wind and can cause severe asthma attacks because they can travel deep into the lungs. Avoid venturing out when it is humid or when there are thunderstorms in your area.

Summer Triggers

Pollution – The warmer months of the year bring with them higher levels of pollution and airborne particles. This lowers the air quality and can trigger asthma symptoms. It is advised to spend less time outdoors and to keep your windows closed.

Humidity – High humidity increases the presence of dust mites and mould spores and can hence trigger the symptoms of asthma. Keep the air conditioning on and use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity levels in your home in check.

Monsoon Triggers

Mould – The damp weather in monsoons may cause an increase in fungus and mould spores. This may trigger asthma symptoms and can further lead to an attack. It is advised to keep your surroundings clean and always wash your bedsheets, pillowcases, etc in warm water at least once a week.

Damp weather – Pets tend to stay indoors due to the wet weather and this increases your exposure to pet dander. Along with this, the damp weather of the season also increases the chances of catching infections. Keep your surroundings clean and wash your hands frequently. To limit your exposure to pet dander, limit their movement to a certain part of the house and keep them out of your bedroom.

Here are a few tips to help you manage your condition in the monsoon season.

Autumn Triggers

Flu Season - Winters bring in the cold and flu season with it. With higher levels of viruses, asthma symptoms can be easily triggered. Sinus infections and respiratory viruses can also trigger asthma attacks. It is advised to get a flu shot and get in touch with your doctor for an effective asthma plan. Wash your hands regularly and keep your surroundings clean.

Winter Triggers

Indoor allergens – Cold winter temperatures may drive people indoors. This increases their exposure to pet dander, dust mites, and more. Keep your surroundings clean and vacuum frequently to get rid of the dust and other allergens in your home.

Cold Temperatures – The cold and dry air of the season is also one of the triggers of asthma symptoms. Try to avoid being outside in cold temperatures and cover your mouth and nose with a scarf to protect your airways from directly inhaling cold air. If scarves do not work for you, you can also use masks.

Learn more about tips to control asthma in winter.

Asthma can be easily managed throughout the year by following a few simple guidelines. Make sure you know your triggers well and take proper precautions to avoid them. Don’t skip your medications and use your inhaler as prescribed. Lastly, make sure to keep proper track of your symptoms and pay a visit to your doctor as and when needed.

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