Asthma – how to manage over summer

 

 

Key points about managing asthma over summer

  • Asthma affects everybody differently but things like pollen, plants, smoke, heat, animals and dust mites can make your asthma symptoms worse or bring on an attack.
  • If you have asthma the warmer months can play havoc with your symptoms.
  • You can manage your symptoms to enjoy a better summer.
Hops and hay bales in Motueka New Zealand paddock
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Have a management plan

Talk to your healthcare team about putting together an asthma management plan(external link) to work out how to manage your symptoms and what to do if your asthma gets worse.

Know your triggers

A trigger is something that makes your asthma symptoms worse or brings on an attack. If you know what your asthma triggers are, then it’s easier to avoid those things and reduce the chance of your asthma worsening.

Some common triggers are pollen and plants, dust mites, heat, humidity, smoke, fumes, sprays, perfumes, increased physical activity, cigarette smoke and contact with animals.

Allergy New Zealand has a New Zealand Pollen Calendar(external link) to help you manage your asthma and hay fever.

Young woman rubbing noses with horse

Image credit: Healthify He Puna Waiora NZ

Stay indoors

If the pollen count is high or it’s windy, stay indoors to reduce the risk of aggravating your asthma. Keep windows and doors closed to limit exposure.

Be prepared

Make sure you are taking your asthma medication as prescribed or have it on hand should you need it. Check you have enough medication to see you through the summer period. This is especially important if you’re going away on holiday, as it may not be easy to access asthma medication if you need it suddenly.
Look after your medication

Keep your medication in a cool, dry place that’s easily accessible. Don’t leave it in direct sunlight or in the car, which can get hot in summer.

Use a peak flow meter

Using a peak flow meter helps you better understand your asthma patterns.

Keep cool

If heat triggers your asthma, stay indoors or somewhere cool and drink lots of water so you don’t get dehydrated. Alternatively, plan your activities for first thing in the morning or later in the day when it’s cooler.

Know where the nearest medical facility is

If you’re going away, be aware of where the nearest GP, hospital or after hours medical facility is so you’re prepared should you need to go.

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Credits: Healthify Editorial Team

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