Thunderstorms asthma

Thunderstorm asthma is when people report having asthma symptoms during thunderstorms.

It is due to a mix of high pollen or fungal spore levels and the thunderstorm.

Strong winds during thunderstorms can pick up pollen and pull it in to clouds. Pollen may then absorb water, swell and burst open, releasing allergens that can be breathed in and may cause asthma attacks.

Thunderstorm asthma can affect people of any age, but you are more likely to be affected if you:

• Have asthma or have had asthma in the past.
• Get hay fever or allergic rhinitis that is triggered by pollens.

Top tips if thunderstorms set off your asthma:

• Keep taking your regular preventer inhaler and carry your reliever inhaler with you at all times.
• Stay indoors before, during and after thunderstorms, and keep the doors and windows closed to stop pollen getting indoors.
• Take your usual hay fever treatments such as a nasal spray and/or antihistamines during the pollen season.