For many people, summer is an exciting time of year. They look forward to the warmer weather and spending time in the parks. However, for people with asthma, summer can be a difficult time of year. Hot air can make it harder to breathe, and higher pollen levels can make your asthma even worse. Therefore, it is important to know the techniques for managing your asthma in summer.
What is Asthma?
According to the HSE, asthma is a:
…common lung condition that affects the ability to breathe. This might mean difficulties breathing from time to time, or breathing problems most of the time.”
It is a condition characterised by wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. However, an asthma attack makes these symptoms more severe. Asthma attacks could be potentially life-threatening if not addressed.
How to Manage Asthma in Summer
Though many people assume asthma is worse in the winter, hot summers can worsen asthma symptoms too. Therefore, it is important to have strategies in place during the hotter months. One method of managing your asthma in summer is to use your inhaler regularly.
Inhaler Types
There are two main types of inhalers that people with asthma are likely to be prescribed. These are used to either relieve symptoms or prevent them.
The reliever inhaler is usually blue and is used only when symptoms occur. Generally, the inhaler takes effect within a few minutes. However, if you need to use our inhaler more than 3 times a week, your doctor may recommend an additional preventer inhaler.
Preventer inhalers are used every day to prevent the inflammation of the airways that is typical of asthma. This helps to prevent symptoms from occurring and is used even when symptoms are not present.
If symptoms are severe, your doctor may give you a combination inhaler. This is used daily to prevent symptoms and provides longer-lasting relief when symptoms do occur.
Summer Weather Tips
It’s important to take precautions during summer to help with managing your asthma. Especially if you have a history of more severe symptoms during this season. Here are some key tips for managing your asthma during the summer.
- Consider Pollen – Heightened pollen levels in summer can trigger asthma symptoms. Therefore, before you go out anywhere you should check the local pollen levels. If there are high levels, it may be best to remain inside.
- Stay Cool – Most people understand the importance of staying cool during summer. For people with asthma, heat can worsen symptoms. Stay in the shade where possible, and switch on the air conditioning if you have it.
- Exercise Responsibly – If you are planning to exercise during summer, do so carefully. Pay attention to your body and take regular breaks. Exercise at the cooler times of the day, if possible, and attempt to stay in the shade.
- Stay Hydrated – Drinking water regularly is important during hotter weather. It keeps you cool and hydrated. However, it can also help reduce symptoms of asthma.
- Create an Asthma Plan – Discuss your asthma with your doctor, as they may be able to help you form an asthma plan for the summer. This could involve temporarily using a preventer inhaler during summer instead of just a reliever inhaler.
The most important thing is to understand your condition and how it affects you. If you do not tend to display severe symptoms during the summer, you may be able to relax more. However, it weather is hotter or more humid than you are used to, it may be prudent to be more cautious than you usually would be.
Staying Safe in Summer
Managing your asthma isn’t the only way to stay safe in summer. It’s important to be prepared if you feel unwell or have a fall. A personal alarm from LifeConnect24 offers additional peace of mind. If you require assistance, simply press the button on your alarm pendant. This will send an alert through to our 24/7 Response Team. If you choose our fall detector package, this alarm will be raised automatically if it sense you have fallen.
Our team will arrange help on your behalf, informing your emergency contacts and, if necessary, the emergency services. Your contacts will be asked to attend your property to provide assistance.
For more information on the LifeConnect24 alarm service, read our helpful guide. For more details, or to order your LifeConnect24 alarm today, please call our friendly customer service team on 1 800 937543.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 23rd May 2024.
