The hot summer days are here! Although many of us love this weather there are some drawbacks that can affect health. Hot summer days often come with elevated humidex readings, high pollen counts and poor Air Quality. The Air Quality Index is a measure of the pollutants in the air.
With the arrival of summer we see a decrease in tree pollen and an increase in grass pollen. The dreaded ragweed season will soon arrive as well! Pollen is an allergen that when inhaled causes an inflammatory reaction in a person’s airways. This inflammatory reaction can trigger asthma symptoms in susceptible patients.
Air pollution, including ozone (which we often think of as smog) is an irritant to the airways. This irritation causes an inflammatory reaction and can trigger asthma symptoms. Weather forecasts will often provide a measure of the Air Quality.
Summer also brings severe weather changes, such as thunderstorms. These weather shifts lead to increased wind, which spreads pollen and can stir-up mold. Barometric changes, rain, humidity and lightning are all possible asthma triggers.
So what should you do if you have asthma?
- Check the Air Quality index and the Pollen Report in advance
- Have your rescue inhaler with you (but make sure you do not keep it in the direct sunlight!)
- Do not overexert yourself – take breaks to rehydrate!
- Stay cool – you may need to take small breaks indoors
- Have an Asthma Action Plan
- Developed with your doctor to help you identify when your asthma may be flaring up and what you should do as a result
- Plan to do activities in the morning on really hot days – air quality will be better in the morning
Take Asthma Canada’s How Much is Too Much quiz to help determine if your asthma is well controlled.
Asthma that is poorly controlled can lead to permanent airway damage, known as airway remodeling. Appropriate treatment, including proper inhaler technique, is important to help prevent this irreversible damage.
If you would like a refresher on your inhaler technique or you have any questions about asthma, come speak to one of our pharmacists.