The weather is constantly changing. As one season passes to another, and the hot air becomes colder, those suffering from asthma must deal with the consequences. Understanding how the weather affects asthma is important. Preparing yourself for the changes in weather can help you better manage your asthma.
How Weather Affects Asthma
If you suffer from asthma, you probably know what it’s like to feel your asthma getting worse or acting up during weather changes. This is because the weather has a direct impact on your airways and your ability to breathe.
Changing weather conditions, including things like humidity, can restrict your airway, making it difficult to manage your asthma. Here are just a few climate changes that could trigger asthma.
- Temperature
- Moisture
- Barometric pressure
- Ozone
Thankfully, there are ways you can limit this impact. Understanding which types of weather affect asthma will help you prepare yourself for any upcoming changes in the weather.
Which Types Of Weather Affect Asthma?
Each type of weather can affect you differently. Depending on where you live and how the weather pattern changes you should prepare accordingly. Here’s a brief rundown of how weather can affect asthma.
Cold Air
Cold air is known to narrow and enclose your airways, making it difficult to breathe. This is especially true for those who suffer from exercise-induced asthma. For those who struggle with cold air, it is important to dress warmly and consider placing a scarf over your mouth to keep cold air out of your lungs if possible.
Dry Air
Much like cold air, dry air can reduce the amount of oxygen your body breathes in, possibly bringing on an asthma flare-up.
High Heat
Asthma triggers like dust mites, air pollution, and mold all thrive in high heat. Warm temperatures can worsen your asthma by creating an environment that’s full of potential triggers.
Moisture
While moisture like rain and thunderstorms can be helpful because it settles triggers like dust to the ground, it can also be potentially dangerous as it breaks up pollen clusters, making them smaller and easier to inhale. Depending on where you live, storms can actually kick up asthma triggers.
Understanding Your Triggers
While virtually every season can offer unique challenges for those suffering from asthma, it’s possible to limit these struggles by understanding your triggers.
Depending on the severity of your asthma, you will likely be triggered by different things. Coupled with the weather, dust, smoke, and daily activities can trigger an asthma attack.
In addition to the weather, be aware of these common triggers:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Mold
- Mildew
- Exercise
- Smoke
- Pet Hair
While there are many triggers, not all of them may be an issue for you and your asthma. Every time your asthma flares up, try to pay attention to your environment and identify possible triggers. Let your doctor know what you observe.
