How To Prevent Asthma During Summers In The UK?

Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions worldwide, poses unique challenges during the summer months, particularly in the UK. As temperatures rise and the environment changes, understanding and managing asthma becomes important for those affected. This comprehensive article discusses the aspects of asthma during summers, exploring its causes, triggers, management strategies and the interplay between asthma and allergies.

Asthma in Summers

During the summer, the combination of warmer weather, increased pollen counts and higher levels of air pollution can exacerbate asthma symptoms. The warmer temperatures can lead to the formation of ground-level ozone, a potent respiratory irritant. 

Pollen from grasses, weeds and trees reaches peak levels and can trigger severe asthma attacks. Moreover, summer air often carries more pollutants like smoke and particulate matter, which can aggravate the airways.

Asthma Causes and Triggers

Asthma is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is characterised by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing. Common triggers during the summer include:

• Pollen: High pollen counts during warm months are a significant trigger for asthma symptoms.
• Air Pollution: Ozone and particulate matter levels tend to rise with hotter temperatures, aggravating asthma.
• Humidity: High humidity can make the air feel heavier and breathing more difficult, which can trigger asthma symptoms.
• Temperature Changes: Sudden changes in temperature, especially when moving from a cool indoor environment to the hot outdoors, can also provoke asthma attacks.

Asthma Inhalers and Medications

Medications are a cornerstone of asthma management, with inhalers being the most common form of treatment. Apart from inhalers, oral medications and biologics may also be prescribed depending on the asthma severity and type. There are two main types of asthma inhalers:

1. Controller Inhalers: Used daily, these inhalers help reduce airway inflammation and prevent asthma symptoms.
2. Reliever Inhalers: Used during an asthma attack to quickly open swollen airways and ease breathing.

In addition to inhalers, other medications may be prescribed to manage asthma, depending on the severity and frequency of symptoms. These include:

1. Leukotriene Modifiers: Medications like montelukast or zafirlukast block leukotrienes, which are inflammatory substances that can constrict airways.
2. Theophylline: This long-acting bronchodilator helps relax the airways and is sometimes used in combination with other asthma medications.
3. Oral Corticosteroids: In cases of severe asthma exacerbations, oral corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone) may be prescribed for a short period to reduce inflammation quickly.

For those needing to purchase asthma medications and inhalers in the UK, we offer a convenient and reliable online service. With a wide range of asthma treatments available, including both preventive and reliever inhalers, Pharmacy Planet provides an easy-to-navigate website that allows patients to securely order their medications from the comfort of their homes.

Each order is reviewed by our qualified pharmacists, ensuring that the medications are appropriate based on the provided medical history. we also offer fast, discreet shipping across the UK.

Common Preventive Measures for Asthma

Preventing asthma attacks involves a proactive approach to managing both the environment and health behaviours. By taking the following steps, individuals with asthma can reduce the frequency and severity of their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

1. Environmental Control
2. Healthy Lifestyle
3. Medication Compliance
4. Regular Medical Reviews
5. Asthma Action Plan

Environmental Control

The first line of defence in managing asthma and allergies is to avoid known allergens. During summer, when pollen counts are high, it’s advisable to keep windows closed to prevent pollen from entering indoor spaces. Maintaining a clean living environment is important for minimising asthma triggers. Regularly cleaning the home to reduce dust, pet dander and mould is essential. 

Air conditioning can help filter out some allergens and maintain a stable indoor temperature. Using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in ventilation systems can also trap airborne allergens like pollen, dust mites and pet dander, reducing exposure. It’s also beneficial to avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, as tobacco smoke is a significant irritant that can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Healthy Lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle can significantly impact asthma management. Regular physical activity improves lung function and overall health but should be done in environments that do not exacerbate asthma, such as indoor spaces with clean air during high pollen seasons. 

A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can support the immune system and reduce inflammation, potentially lessening asthma symptoms.

Medication Compliance

Both asthma and allergies often require ongoing medication to keep symptoms under control. For asthma, this typically includes the daily use of controller medications such as inhaled corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation and sensitivity of the airways to allergens. 

During allergy season, antihistamines, decongestants or nasal corticosteroids can be used to manage allergic reactions. It's vital to use these medications as prescribed by our pharmacists.

Regular Medical Reviews

Regular check-ups are essential for effective asthma management. These visits are opportunities to review and adjust medication dosages, discuss symptom patterns and develop strategies for avoiding triggers. Annual flu vaccinations are also recommended, as viral infections can trigger severe asthma exacerbations.

Asthma Action Plan

Developing a personalised asthma action plan in consultation with our pharmacists is a proactive step in asthma care. This plan should outline what to do daily to manage asthma, how to handle worsening symptoms and when to seek emergency medical attention.

Ready to Take Control of Your Asthma Management?

Asthma during summer requires careful management due to the numerous environmental triggers prevalent during this season. By understanding the specific causes and triggers, adhering to treatment plans and taking preventive measures, individuals with asthma can enjoy a healthy and active summer. 

Always consult our pharmacists to tailor the management plan according to individual needs, ensuring effective control over the condition. This proactive approach not only manages asthma but also improves overall quality of life, making summer months more enjoyable and less stressful for those affected.

Start an online consultation with our experienced pharmacists at us! Our expert team is available to provide personalised advice and prescribe the right medication for your needs. Schedule your consultation and breathe easier with our trusted care.