Spring can be tough for people with asthma, particularly if they have a pollen allergy. Unfortunately, spring is notorious for sending asthmatics, particularly asthmatic children in urban areas, to the emergency room.
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 certain times of the year.
In truth, asthma symptoms can flare at any time of year due to asthma triggers, such as pet dander, secondhand smoke, mould, airborne bacteria and exercise. But knowing the triggers that can vary by season, such as pollen, temperature, humidity, pollution and viruses, can help people with asthma figure out if they should be stepping up their medication and avoiding certain situations.
For asthmatics, spring means one thing above all, pollen season. 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.)
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 during the pollen season, you’re better off doing it later in the day.
The pollen season is a one-two punch. Trees begin to release pollen around September (depending on where you live), and just when you’re recovering from the tree pollen, grass pollen peaks in November and December.
To lessen the chance of irritants becoming airborne inside, it is important to properly maintain your air conditioner. Mould loves to grow inside the air conditioning unit and can build up to very dangerous levels. Pollen and contaminants can be drawn in from the outside and can be present in the air inside your home just from doors and windows being open or brought in on pets or clothing. Your air conditioner is designed to filter the air it uses, but it cannot operate efficiently if the filters, coils, fins and outdoor unit are not properly cleaned and sanitised.
By having your air conditioner professionally cleaned every 6 months, you are ensuring that the build up of contaminants and allergens are removed.
