Asthma is a condition where a person’s airway becomes blocked with mucus and gets inflamed causing difficulty in breathing.

For some people, asthma can be mild while for others it can be a life threatening one!

Symptoms range from wheezing, cough, chest pain and difficulty in breathing.

With inhalers and medicines, asthma can be controlled and managed. However certain weather conditions or substances can trigger an asthma attack.

Summer is one such season where many people get a slight relief from asthma symptoms while for some the hot weather can exacerbate the existing symptoms.

Let’s look at some of the asthma triggers experienced during summer.

1. Warm air

Breathing in warm air can sometimes narrow the airways making it difficult to breathe in some people. Keeping the inhalers with you while you go out is a good option. Another option is to try going out early in the morning for a walk/jog when the air is clean and temperature is not too hot.

1. Pollution

Ozone and air pollution can lead to high levels in the atmosphere due to dry weather conditions and warm air. This can trigger an asthma attack. 

Also mold spores and pollens from grass/trees or bushes can suspend in the air and the susceptible people who inhale it can expect an asthma attack coming on 

Ozone is a chemical formed when emissions from motor vehicles, power plants and certain industries interact with sunlight. Increased levels of ozone can:

• irritate your respiratory system
• damage cells that line your lungs
• reduce lung function
• make your asthma symptoms worse

One solution to this problem is to check the air quality and pollution index before venturing outside. Use a humidifier or an air conditioner that can filter the air inside your room and keep it clear from pollutants.

1. Thunderstorm asthma

During summer, sometimes there is a sudden gust of wind followed by thunderstorms. For some people, this can trigger an asthma attack.

Thunderstorms can disperse a lot of allergens like dust and pollen into the atmosphere which can inflame the airways and cause breathing difficulty in some people with asthma.

Adding to the allergens is the change in the temperature and humidity levels which can also act like a trigger.

Best thing to do during such a situation is to stay indoors, keep yourself hydrated well and keep the inhalers always close by.

By taking some precautions, asthma can be managed and flare ups can be avoided. 

Bottom line is to make a list of season wise triggers and try to avoid them.