Asthma Flare-Ups in Cooler Weather: Understanding Root Causes, Recognizing Symptoms, and Managing Remedies
Asthma, a common respiratory condition, affects millions worldwide. It is characterised by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to breathing difficulties. This article aims to shed light on common asthma triggers and management strategies.
Mold and mildew, allergens that thrive in damp and cold or humid conditions, are common asthma triggers. Their growth varies depending on the climate. Allergens such as pollen, mold, and mildew can also trigger seasonal asthma.
Seasonal asthma symptoms, including wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and coughing, can be exacerbated by various factors. In the United States, tree pollen typically appears from March to May, but in hotter climates, it can start earlier and persist throughout the year. Grass pollen usually appears in late spring or early summer, while weed pollen, specifically ragweed pollen, emerges in late summer and decreases in mid-to-late fall.
Thunderstorms during peak pollen months can release a large amount of pollen into the air, potentially triggering symptoms for people with seasonal asthma. Cold, dry air can also cause bronchoconstriction, narrowing the airways and triggering asthma symptoms. Heat and humidity can make breathing difficult for people with asthma, and the effects might be worse during exercise.
Exercising in cold weather can worsen asthma symptoms due to increased oxygen consumption and narrowing airways. Similarly, air pollution, tobacco smoke, respiratory infections, stress, and certain medications like antibiotics can increase the risk of asthma attacks. The imbalance of the gut flora due to antibiotic use has been linked to increased asthma prevalence.
Fortunately, there are several management strategies for asthma. Leukotriene modifiers, tablets given to regulate the body's response to inflammatory chemicals produced after encountering an allergen, are one such option. Mast cell stabilizers, which stabilise mast cells to prevent the release of histamine and leukotrienes, reducing inflammation and mucus production, are another.
Inhaled corticosteroids lower mucus production and reduce inflammation, while combination inhalers containing a corticosteroid and a beta-agonist can help open airways. Immunotherapy, or allergy shots, is a long-term treatment that gradually exposes the body to an allergen to build tolerance.
To avoid an asthma flare-up, it's essential to stay indoors when the pollen count is high, especially during dawn and early morning. Keep pets out of the bedroom and living room to reduce allergens. Examine your home for leaks and keep it clean during allergy season. Allergy-proof your bed using hypoallergenic covers and wash sheets weekly. Maintain a home humidity level between 30-50% to discourage dust mites.
If experiencing chronic cough, lightheadedness, or wheezing, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional. Rescue inhalers are used during asthma attacks to widen airways and relieve symptoms for a few hours. Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing difficulty breathing, a blue tint on lips or fingernails, rapid or hard-to-control breathing, a heavy weight on the chest, or flared nostrils.
A 2020 study found that up to 80% of childhood asthma and 50% of adult asthma is exacerbated by allergies. Recognising and managing these triggers can significantly improve quality of life for those with asthma.
