asthma symptoms

Why asthma symptoms worsen in spring: 4 reasons

  1. Increased pollen from plants.

During this time of year, the amount of pollen in the air increases significantly due to the intensive blooming of trees, shrubs, and grasses. This can cause an exacerbation of symptoms of the disease, as such substances in the air are one of the most common triggers. As a result, asthmatics may feel tightness in their chest and not be able to breathe normally.   Particularly dangerous are wind-pollinated plants such as birch, poplar, alder and ragweed, whose pollen can be carried over long distances and remain in the air for a long time. Even if a person is not near a pollen source, they can still be exposed to it.  Therefore, when all the trees and flowers start to bloom, try to stay outside less in windy weather and do not forget your medications (for example Acto-Pred, Alupent-10) and inhalers (for example Flixotide Inhaler, Ventolin, Ventorlin Inhaler) that you are prescribed.

  1. Lack of rest.

With the arrival of spring, most people want to spend more time outdoors walking or working in the garden, often neglecting proper rest. However, this can significantly affect the exacerbation of the disease, especially in spring, when the body is already under increased stress due to a sharp change in weather and changes in atmospheric pressure. Such overexertion negatively impacts the nervous system, which can heighten the body’s response to asthma triggers like pollen, dust, or changes in humidity. A person who doesn’t rest adequately may also neglect taking regular medications or may pay less attention to their health, increasing the risk of complications. To avoid asthma flare-ups due to lack of rest, it is essential to maintain a proper sleep schedule and find time for relaxation to reduce stress.

  1. Chemical irritants.

In spring, the air is filled with more chemical irritants due to increased transportation activity, which raises exhaust emissions containing toxic substances that can worsen respiratory conditions. Additionally, agricultural activities that involve pesticides and fertilizers, which may enter the air and be harmful to health, are more common in spring. Furthermore, warmer temperatures can cause the formation of harmful chemical compounds, such as ozone, which degrade air quality. All of these factors increase the presence of chemical irritants in the atmosphere, which can negatively affect individuals with respiratory issues.

  1. Spring thunderstorms.

When it rains, the humidity can pick up fine dust particles and allergens from the ground, which then remain in the air and enter the lungs. As a result, a person with this disease may experience a significant deterioration in health. Humid air, which often accompanies thunderstorms, can also stimulate the growth of mold and fungi that thrive in high humidity conditions, negatively affecting a person’s health. Additionally, changes in temperature and atmospheric pressure during a storm can cause fluctuations in the airways, leading to their constriction and disrupting normal breathing. Therefore, if you know that your condition worsens during such weather conditions, it is best to avoid being outside during thunderstorms and conduct wet cleaning indoors to reduce allergen levels.