Now that summer is upon us, the hot, humid air is descending from the atmosphere. While many look forward to this increase in temperature, there are those that dread this time of year as it results in an immense amount of discomfort. These individuals are the ones that suffer from asthma.
Breathing in hot air with high levels of humidity often results in shortness of breath, coughing episodes, and chest tightness among those that have been diagnosed with asthma.
In the summer months, admission to the hospital as a result of asthma exacerbations are common. Continue reading to learn more about how the heat and humidity prove detrimental to asthma sufferers.
Just the Tip of the Proverbial Iceberg
According to information released by an Allergy & Asthma Medical Group and Research Center located in San Diego, California, an increase in the amount of humidity in the air has the potential to trigger asthma. If heat is then added to the mix, the air becomes a highly fertile breeding area for allergens that can trigger asthma symptoms.
Examples include dust mites, mold, fumes from machinery, and even ozone-based pollutants. Heat and humidity are just the proverbial tip of the iceberg. There are other substances that can mix with that heat and humidity that will result in immense asthma attacks.
Coping with Summertime Heat to Avoid Asthma Attacks
When summertime heat is in full swing, it is essential that you take steps that will help ensure your comfort level so that you may avoid asthma attacks. The following outlines measures recommended by pulmonary specialists:
- The first step to avoiding asthma attacks as a result of summertime heat is to avoid situations where you would inhale hot air. You should avoid hot air at all times. Climate controlled areas are ideal. When in an area that is climate-controlled, you should keep the temperatures low. Remember, cool air is more productive than hot air when it comes to asthma.
- The next step to avoiding complications with asthma during summertime heat is to control any allergies that you may have that may be more prevalent during the hot days of summer. Examples include mold allergies, pollen allergies, and those that are similar in nature. If you have not been tested for allergies, this should be done. Undiagnosed allergies in the summer heat are the perfect combination for severe asthma attacks.
- You should always strive to stay indoors during the summer months. Your air conditioner filter should be changed on a regular basis and the humidity level in your home should be kept low. If you need assistance with these steps, you may contact an air conditioner specialist.
Asthma is a serious lung disease that can act up significantly as a result of summertime heat. Climate control is especially important to the sufferer from the months of May through September.