Asthma UK Issues Thunderstorm Warning

Main Category: Respiratory / Asthma
Article Date: 14 Aug 2008 - 0:00 PDT

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With thunderstorms predicted in many parts of the country this week, Asthma UK is offering important advice to the 5.2 million people in the UK with asthma.

During thunderstorms large quantities of pollen can be released into the air which can trigger asthma symptoms and raise the risk of an emergency admission six-fold. On an average day over 200 people will be admitted to hospital with potentially life-threatening asthma attacks, so the increased risk during volatile weather means it is even more important for people with asthma to keep their asthma medicines with them.

It is believed that during thunderstorms, downdraughts of cold air sweep up high concentrations of pollen and spores. These allergenic particles are then thrust into the air, where the moisture breaks them up into pieces that can penetrate deep into the lungs. This can induce attacks even in those who have previously only had mild asthma. During thunderstorms it is therefore best to stay inside and close windows to keep allergens out.

Vikki Knowles, Clinical Lead at Asthma UK adds: 'Unfortunately we can't control the weather but by taking the right steps early enough we can certainly help to control asthma symptoms. Having a personal asthma action plan can really help, showing you how to increase your asthma medicines safely if you notice your symptoms getting worse. If you do not already have a plan you can get one from your doctor or asthma nurse.

'If you are concerned about how weather conditions may affect your asthma you can speak to your GP or call the Asthma UK Adviceline on 08457 01 02 03 and speak in confidence with one of our asthma nurse specialists'

For people with asthma who suffer from a range of seasonal triggers Asthma UK provides an online service which is available via the website, asthma.org.uk. The bespoke service, Asthma Trigger Tips, offers people with asthma tailored information and advice to help them effectively manage their condition during seasonal changes. The service also offers advice on a whole range of lifestyle triggers including diet, exercise, smoking and stress, and household triggers including animals, dust mites, moulds and fungi.

Notes

1. Asthma UK is the charity dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the 5.2 million people in the UK whose lives are affected by asthma.

2. For up-to-date news on asthma, information and publications, visit the Asthma UK website http://www.asthma.org.uk.

3. Kickasthma.org.uk is Asthma UK's interactive website for children and young people with asthma. The site offers support and advice and includes an asthma dictionary, problem page, games and a messageboard.

4. For independent and confidential advice on asthma, call the Asthma UK Adviceline, which is staffed by asthma nurse specialists. It is open weekdays from 9am to 5pm on 08457 01 02 03. Or email an asthma nurse at http://www.asthma.org.uk/adviceline.

Asthma UK