World Asthma Day 2024: Can asthma worsen in summers? Here's what the expert says

World Asthma Day 2024: Always carry your inhaler with you, especially when joining in strenuous activities or spending time outside (Image: Canva)

For asthma patients, hot air exposure can be very problematic because it can aggravate pre-existing respiratory conditions and trigger symptoms. People who have asthma have extremely sensitive airways, and breathing heated air can aggravate and inflame these already damaged passageways, making breathing harder, causing coughing, wheezing, and tightness in the chest. Furthermore, dry, hot air can dehydrate people, which makes their body naturally breathe more quickly to try and hold on to moisture.

Asthma symptoms may worsen due to this rapid breathing because it can cause inflammation and tightness of the airways. Apart from the direct effect of hot air on asthma symptoms, other severe weather factors that might aggravate respiratory discomfort include high temperatures, humidity, and air pollution, says Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of critical care & Pulmonology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon.

Elevated temperatures have the potential to cause a rise in air pollution, exacerbating symptoms of asthma by irritating the respiratory tract. In a similar vein, elevated humidity levels can produce a moist atmosphere that favours the growth of mold and dust mites, which are frequently responsible for exacerbations of asthma.

How to take care

Follow your asthma action plan

Work closely with your doctor to create a personalised asthma action plan. This plan will outline your medications, triggers, and steps to manage asthma symptoms effectively, says Grover.

Warm-up and cool down

Before engaging in physical activities, ensure that you warm up properly to prepare your body for exercise. Afterward, take time to cool down gradually to prevent sudden changes in breathing patterns and potential asthma flare-ups.

Choose suitable activities

Opt for activities that are less likely to trigger your asthma symptoms, says Grover. Individuals with asthma often tolerate swimming, walking, or indoor exercises in well-ventilated areas. Listen to your body and modify activities as needed.

Be prepared

Always carry your inhaler with you, especially when joining in strenuous activities or spending time outside. Ensure that your inhaler is easily accessible in case of an asthma flare-up. Additionally, inform your friends, family, or exercise partners about your condition, so they can provide assistance if needed

Stay hydrated

Drinking an adequate amount of water helps keep your airways moist and can alleviate some asthma symptoms. Dehydration can make it harder to breathe, so it’s vital to stay hydrated, especially during hot summer days.

Check the air quality

Before heading outside, check the air quality index in your area. Avoid exercising or spending continued periods outside on days when pollution levels are high or air quality is poor.

Protect yourself from allergens

If pollen allergies worsen your asthma symptoms, take precautions to minimise risk. Check pollen forecasts and try to stay indoors during peak pollen times. Keep windows closed, use air conditioning, and consider using allergen-proof bedding to reduce risk to dust mites.

Seek shade

When spending time outside during summer, seek shade to avoid prolonged risk to direct sunlight and heat buildup. Heat and humidity can trigger asthma symptoms, so finding cooler areas can provide relief and reduce the likelihood of an asthma flare-up.