How to manage asthma in the summer
BY READERS DIGEST
1st Jan 2015 Health Conditions
Every season brings a number of health considerations with it, and summer is no exception. Although it may be that the worst – or hottest – of British summertime is behind us, it is still important to protect your health during the warm weather. This is particularly the case if you have asthma; whether you’re heading abroad or staying at home, there are definitely a few things that you should bear in mind
Asthma in hot weather
Asthma is a chronic condition with symptoms that can strike at any time of the year.
For most people, being prepared for an attack is second nature, but disruption to your routine can sometimes lead you to forget your inhaler or neglect your asthma treatment plan.
Hot weather can be troublesome for people who have no existing breathing problems, so it should come as no surprise that, for those with asthma, summer can be a real concern. Hotter weather can lead to an increase in the occurrence and severity of symptoms.
This is particularly the case for anyone whose asthma is triggered by pollen, dust, sand or pollution, all of which are more prevalent in summer. Fortunately, as long as you have a treatment plan and access to your preventer and reliever inhalers at all times, the risk is usually manageable.
Unexpected asthma
Some people who have asthma exhibit symptoms very rarely, leading them to believe in the myth that asthma can go away – but this is not the case.
If you are diagnosed with asthma then you will always have it, whether you have experienced symptoms recently or not. The concern is that some people with asthma may fail to prepare if they are not accustomed to dealing with symptoms on a regular basis.
This leads to an increased risk of a serious asthma attack. If you have been diagnosed in the past, then be sure to remain vigilant during the summer months, even if you don’t think you are at risk of an attack. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Be prepared
If you regularly experience asthma symptoms then it’s vital that you take extra care in hot weather.
Hundreds of people visit A&E every year following an asthma attack that may have been avoidable with the proper preparation. So whether you need to renew your reliever medication or get a new preventer, get your treatment ready now and make sure you stay safe all summer.
