Seasonal changes may act as asthma triggers and increase the severity of asthma. Know more about the different seasonal triggers and how they affect asthmatics.

1. What You Need to Know About Seasonal Asthma Triggers
Asthma is a chronic respiratory illness that causes inflammation of the airways in the lungs and results in
the person experiencing asthma symptoms like wheezing, persistent coughing, breathlessness, and
more. Though the condition cannot be cured, it can be easily managed with medications and inhalers.
While people can experience the symptoms throughout the year, some people only experience them in
particular seasons or due to particular triggers. This type of asthma is termed as allergic asthma.
Among the different types of asthma, allergy-induced asthma is one of the most common ones. Allergens
are one of the most common asthma triggers and can change through the year depending on the season.
Here are a few seasonal asthma triggers to watch out for.
Spring Triggers
Pollen – Pollen allergies are a major trigger of asthma. It is advised that you avoid going outdoors during
peak pollen hours. Make sure you keep your doors and windows shut to keep the pollen from entering
your home.
Thunderstorms – Commonly known as thunderstorm asthma, in this phenomenon, heavy rains can
break down pollen into tiny pieces. These grains are then scattered by the wind and can cause severe
asthma attacks because they can travel deep into the lungs. Avoid venturing out when it is humid or when
there are thunderstorms in your area.
Summer Triggers
Pollution – The warmer months of the year bring with them higher levels of pollution and airborne
particles. This lowers the air quality and can trigger asthma symptoms. It is advised to spend less time
outdoors and to keep your windows closed.
Humidity – High humidity increases the presence of dust mites and mould spores and can hence trigger
the symptoms of asthma. Keep the air conditioning on and use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity levels
in your home in check.
Monsoon Triggers
Mould – The damp weather in monsoons may cause an increase in fungus and mould spores. This may
trigger asthma symptoms and can further lead to an attack. It is advised to keep your surroundings clean
and always wash your bedsheets, pillowcases, etc in warm water at least once a week.

2. Damp weather – Pets tend to stay indoors due to the wet weather and this increases your exposure to pet
dander. Along with this, the damp weather of the season also increases the chances of catching
infections. Keep your surroundings clean and wash your hands frequently. To limit your exposure to pet
dander, limit their movement to a certain part of the house and keep them out of your bedroom.
Here are a few tips to help you manage your condition in the monsoon season.
Autumn Triggers
Flu Season - Winters bring in the cold and flu season with it. With higher levels of viruses, asthma
symptoms can be easily triggered. Sinus infections and respiratory viruses can also trigger asthma
attacks. It is advised to get a flu shot and get in touch with your doctor for an effective asthma plan. Wash
your hands regularly and keep your surroundings clean.
Winter Triggers
Indoor allergens – Cold winter temperatures may drive people indoors. This increases their exposure to
pet dander, dust mites, and more. Keep your surroundings clean and vacuum frequently to get rid of the
dust and other allergens in your home.
Cold Temperatures – The cold and dry air of the season is also one of the triggers of asthma symptoms.
Try to avoid being outside in cold temperatures and cover your mouth and nose with a scarf to protect
your airways from directly inhaling cold air. If scarves do not work for you, you can also use masks.
Learn more about tips to control asthma in winter.
Asthma can be easily managed throughout the year by following a few simple guidelines. Make sure you
know your triggers well and take proper precautions to avoid them. Don’t skip your medications and use
your inhaler as prescribed. Lastly, make sure to keep proper track of your symptoms and pay a visit to
your doctor as and when needed.