So why do asthma symptoms seem to get worse with every change in the weather? Although it seems confusing, there are some annual trends, as well as reasons why asthma symptoms are worse at particular times of the year.
In truth, asthma symptoms can flare at any time of year due to well-known asthma triggers, such as pet dander, secondhand smoke, mould, airborne bacteria and exercise.
For asthmatics, change in season can see different types of pollen and allergens in the air. Pollen is a potent allergen that, when inhaled, can inflame airways and cause asthma attacks. (Like cold-and-flu season, high pollen counts are associated with an increase in asthma-related hospital visits.) Also as the dampness creeps in,mould starts to multiply and can cause a range of reactions in asthmatics and people in general.
With cold, dry air in the autumn and winter, exercising outdoors can make people with asthma especially vulnerable to asthma attacks. Fortunately, pollen concentrations are relatively predictable. Pollen counts are the highest between about 4 a.m. and 10 a.m. every day, so if you’re going to be exercising, you’re better off doing it later in the day.
Not only does pollen and mould build up inside your air conditioner, there are also many other contaminants that can build up. These can include, pet dander, bacteria, fungus, animal excrement, dust and dead animals.
To lessen the chance of irritants becoming airborne inside, it is important to properly maintain your air conditioner.
By having it professionally cleaned every 6 months, you are ensuring efficient removal of the build up of contaminants on the coils and filters.
