Effect of Weather on Asthma

If you or a loved one suffer from asthma, you should be aware of the effects weather has on your condition to minimize the frequency of attacks.

Humidity

• A 10 percent or more increase in humidity in a single day has been attributed to an increase in Emergency Room visits for asthma two to three days after the spike occurred.

Thunderstorm

• Thunderstorm at night

  Thunderstorms increase the number of spores in the atmosphere, which trigger asthma outbreaks. During a thunderstorm, the static charge of the atmosphere changes, which may also trigger an attack.

Cold

• Church covered with snow

  Cold air causes the mucous layer in the respiratory tract to thicken, resulting in difficulty removing irritants. Those who exercise in cold weather are especially susceptible.

Windy

• People walking in strong wind

  Warm winds can carry mold spores and increase the pollen count in the atmosphere. Both of these factors contribute highly to asthma outbreaks.

Ozone

• Pollution combined with heavy sun contributes to ozone. Persons who suffer from asthma should limit outdoor activity and exposure on days when ozone content is high.

Pollen

• If you have a child who suffers from asthma, you will want to watch the weather forecast to see if there is going to be an increase in the pollen count. Pollen is normally higher in the mornings, so limiting outdoor activity until after lunch could help prevent an attack.