Why Asthma Can Be Worse In Spring and Steps To Manage Attacks

As spring approaches, the call of the great outdoors grows stronger, and so does the pollen count. Seasonal changes in the weather may also trigger asthma attacks, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Chronic Disease Management Specialist Andrea C. Beavers, PA-C helps you manage your asthma attacks during springtime and throughout the year at Star Treatment Healthcare Services and Med Spa in Dallas, Texas.

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic disease affecting more than 24 million Americans, inflaming the airways making it difficult to breathe. During an attack, patients report:

• Breathlessness
• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Chest tightness

We diagnose asthma via lung function tests, chest and sinus X-rays, a physical exam, and/or detailed medical history. We then provide treatment and tips for patients experiencing asthma symptoms brought on by seasonal changes or other issues.

How to cope

Allergies and asthma frequently go hand-in-hand. Spring allergies brought about by an increase in pollen and hay fever can also prompt asthma attacks. Andrea Beavers, PA-C, and our caring staff help you manage chronic diseases, such as asthma. We’ll ensure you understand what’s causing your attacks, from pollen and pollution to high humidity and storms. Other triggers include:

• Chemicals and strong odors
• Exercise
• Mold
• Smoke
• Animal dander and saliva
• Dust mites

We’ll discuss your lifestyle and medical history to find ways to avoid certain behaviors and situations that worsen your asthma.

How allergies affect asthma

When our immune system identifies a substance, such as pollen, as harmful, it releases chemicals to protect our bodies from invaders. This can cause runny noses, itchy eyes, and other allergic reactions. It may also produce asthma symptoms in your airways and lungs. We propose a variety of treatments, from lifestyle modification to allergy shots and medication, to keep allergies and asthma in check.

Ten tips to control your asthma

More hours of sunlight means additional opportunities to play sports and enjoy everything our great state has to offer. It becomes even more crucial to monitor situations that may prompt an asthma flare-up. Managing spring allergies is the first step in taking control of your asthma. Be sure to:

1. Wear a hat and sunglasses
2. Wear an N95 mask, gloves, and goggles when cutting grass or performing yard work
3. Avoid peak pollen times of early morning and dusk, and during warm, breezy days
4. Avoid smoke
5. When driving, recirculate the air in your car
6. Use central air on warmer days with a certified asthma and allergy friendly HVAC filter
7. Change clothes after wearing them outside
8. Shower and shampoo to remove any pollen
9. Remove shoes before coming into your home
10. Close windows during high-pollen days

It’s crucial to pinpoint and avoid your particular triggers whenever possible. You can also monitor air quality via airnow.gov and other websites.

We’ll help you breathe easier

From hot and humid to cold and windy, our ever-changing Texas weather offers some challenging conditions for asthma sufferers. While we can’t control the weather, we can help you manage your asthma throughout the changing seasons. Contact our compassionate team at Star Treatment Healthcare Services and Med Spa to schedule an appointment today.