Common Summer Triggers For Asthma In The UK

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways, causing them to become inflamed and narrow, which makes breathing difficult. Many people with asthma notice that their symptoms can worsen during the summer months. The combination of heat, humidity and increased exposure to various allergens and irritants can trigger asthma attacks.

Common Summer Triggers for Asthma

Understanding these triggers and how to manage them is important for maintaining good asthma control during the summer. Here, we explore some common summer triggers for asthma in the UK and discuss effective strategies for managing them.

• Pollen: During the summer, pollen levels from grass, trees and weeds can be particularly high. Pollen is a common allergen that can cause the airways to become inflamed and trigger asthma symptoms. People with asthma who are also allergic to pollen may experience increased coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath during high pollen seasons.
• Heat and Humidity: Hot and humid weather can make the air feel heavy and difficult to breathe. For individuals with asthma, this can lead to more frequent and severe symptoms. The combination of heat and humidity can also increase the levels of ground-level ozone, a pollutant that can irritate the airways and trigger asthma attacks.
• Air Pollution: During the summer, air pollution levels can rise due to increased sunlight and higher temperatures. Pollutants such as ozone and particulate matter can irritate the lungs and exacerbate asthma symptoms. People living in urban areas or near industrial sites may be particularly affected by higher pollution levels during the summer months.
• Thunderstorms: Thunderstorms can be a surprising trigger for asthma attacks. The combination of high winds, humidity and pollen can lead to a phenomenon known as "thunderstorm asthma." During a thunderstorm, pollen grains can be broken into smaller particles that are more easily inhaled, leading to a sudden and severe asthma attack.
• Mould Spores: Warm and damp conditions can lead to an increase in mould growth. Mould spores are airborne and can trigger asthma symptoms when inhaled. People with asthma should be cautious in environments where mould is likely to be present, such as damp basements, bathrooms and wooded areas.
• Outdoor Activities: Summer often means more time spent outdoors, engaging in physical activities such as hiking, cycling and playing sports. While exercise is beneficial for overall health, it can also be a trigger for asthma symptoms. Individuals with asthma need to manage their condition properly and take preventive measures when participating in outdoor activities.

Managing Asthma in Summer

Managing asthma during the summer requires a combination of preventive strategies and the use of appropriate medications. Here are some tips to help keep asthma symptoms under control:

• Monitor Pollen Levels: Keep an eye on daily pollen forecasts and try to stay indoors when pollen levels are high, especially during peak pollen times such as early morning and late afternoon. Keeping windows closed and using air conditioning can help reduce indoor pollen levels.
• Stay Cool: Avoid excessive heat and humidity by staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day. Use fans or air conditioning to keep your living environment cool and comfortable. Staying hydrated is also important to help keep the airways moist and reduce irritation.
• Limit Exposure to Pollutants: Check air quality forecasts and avoid outdoor activities when pollution levels are high. If you need to be outside, try to do so early in the morning or late in the evening when pollution levels are typically lower.
• Be Prepared for Thunderstorms: If thunderstorms are forecasted, try to stay indoors with windows closed to minimise exposure to pollen and mould spores. Using an air purifier can also help improve indoor air quality.
• Manage Mould: Keep indoor humidity levels low by using dehumidifiers and ensuring good ventilation. Clean any visible mould promptly and address any sources of moisture that could lead to mould growth.
• Exercise Wisely: Engage in outdoor activities during times when pollen and pollution levels are lower. Always carry your rescue inhaler with you and use it as prescribed by your doctor. If exercise tends to trigger your asthma, consider using your inhaler before starting your activity as a preventive measure.

Asthma Medications and Devices

Proper medication management is essential for controlling asthma symptoms, especially during the summer months. Here are some common asthma medications and devices that can help:

1. AeroChamber
2. Airflusal Forspiro
3. Airflusal Inhaler
4. Airomir

AeroChamber

An AeroChamber is a type of spacer device that attaches to the mouthpiece of a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). It helps ensure that the medication is delivered directly to the lungs, making it more effective. Using an AeroChamber can help reduce the risk of side effects and improve asthma control.

Airflusal Forspiro

Airflusal Forspiro is an inhaler that contains two active ingredients: salmeterol and fluticasone propionate. Salmeterol is a long-acting bronchodilator that helps keep the airways open, while fluticasone propionate is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation. This combination is effective for the symptomatic treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.

Airflusal Inhaler

Similar to the Forspiro, the Airflusal inhaler contains salmeterol and fluticasone propionate. This inhaler is used to manage asthma symptoms by combining the effects of a bronchodilator and an anti-inflammatory medication.

Airomir

Airomir is a fast-acting auto inhaler that contains salbutamol, a medication that quickly relaxes the muscles around the airways. It is used for the treatment of asthma attacks, bronchospasms and other obstructive pulmonary conditions. Airomir is particularly useful for providing rapid relief from acute asthma symptoms.

Manage Your Asthma Effectively – Buy Now at Pharmacy Planet

Summer can be a challenging time for people with asthma due to various triggers such as pollen, heat, humidity, air pollution, thunderstorms and mould spores. By understanding these triggers and implementing effective management strategies, individuals with asthma can enjoy the summer months with fewer symptoms. 

Monitoring pollen and air quality levels, staying cool, managing mould and using asthma medications and devices appropriately are key to maintaining good asthma control. With the right approach, people with asthma can minimise their symptoms and lead an active, healthy life during the summer season in the UK.

For expert advice on managing asthma and to find a wide range of asthma products such as AeroChamber, Airflusal Forspiro, Airflusal Inhaler and Airomir, order from Pharmacy Planet. 

Ensure you have the right tools and medications to keep your symptoms under control. Buy asthma medications now from us for trusted solutions and comprehensive care. Enjoy your summer with confidence and ease.