15 Sep Does Pollen Cause Your Asthma Here’s How To Handle It
Asthma patients have to deal with a lot of triggers all year long, but the challenges they face when the seasons change are huge. Pollution in the air and pollen are two of the most common things that set off asthma attacks, and many asthma patients find it hard to get through the spring when they also have hayfever symptoms. With that in mind, if this sounds like something you usually have to deal with, here are some ways to handle the problem.
Know About Pollen Triggers
It’s entirely possible for someone to be allergic to more than one type of pollen and, to suffer from hayfever through the who year, rather than just in certain seasons. However, even if you are only allergic to one type of pollen that causes your asthma to flare up, it’s still hard to predict when it is going to be a problem for you. It’s not just about the time of year, but it can often also be due to changing weather conditions. For example, if it’s windy, you may suffer more than if it’s a still day because the pollen travels farther.
The best thing to do is to take preventative measures. If you want to limit your hayfever symptoms themselves, taking an antihistamine such as fexofenadine for hayfever is a great idea. You can also make sure you regularly use your inhaler in the mornings (and perhaps throughout the day) to combat the effects of pollen on your asthma. Do these things even if you don’t have any symptoms, and you should feel better. Of course, be sure to check with your medical provider before deciding on an antihistamine and treatment course.
See A Doctor
There are a number of different ways to treat asthma, but you should choose the one that works best for you. Talk to your primary care doctor, a nurse who specializes in asthma care, or a pharmacist.
Call a doctor right away if you feel:
- Breathless
- You’re coughing than usual
- Wheezy or tight-chested
- You’re using a reliever inhaler at least three times a week
Stay Indoors
Although you may way to go outside in the good weather, sometimes it’s better for your health not to. If the pollen forecast (more on that later) is particularly high or you’re already feeling the first signs of asthma when you’re inside, it might be best to stay indoors and ask for help with any errands and chores that need to be done.
Although this may not always be possible, and it’s certainly not preferable, you will need to understand the consequences of going outside because breathing in the pollen could make you very sick indeed.
Check The Pollen Forecast
Knowing about pollen forecasts might help you understand how much pollen will be released in your area and when. Keep an eye out for local pollen forecasts on television or the internet, and set up notifications for when the pollen is expected to show in your region. This can help you in better planning and avoiding asthma triggers.
Your asthma status is totally dependent on how you treat it. There is no true “cure” for asthma, but with proper medication and lifestyle adjustments, you can make asthma a very minor part of your life.
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Last Updated on September 15, 2022 by Marie Benz MD FAAD