Thunderstorm asthma is a potent mix of pollen and weather conditions that can trigger severe asthma symptoms. It occurs when a storm strikes on a hot and windy day during pollen season when there are high levels of pollen in the air. When the storm front hits, the pollen grains absorb the moisture and burst into tiny particles. The thunderstorm outflow winds blow these particles down to ground level, where they can then get inhaled deep inside the lungs and trigger a serious asthma attack.
These conditions can also lead to breathing problems being experienced not only by people with asthma but those who have significant hay fever. People who wheeze and sneeze with hay fever from pollens during spring are most likely to be affected, even if they do not have pre-existing asthma.
The best way to treat thunderstorm asthma is to try and avoid it happening:
First Aid for Asthma Chart - step by step instructions on what to do in an emergency.
How-to video library – how to use your inhaler
