Managing asthma with post-lockdown pollution
Dr Andy, our in-house GP, explains why air pollution may trigger asthma symptoms and what you can do to help reduce the risk of this happening.
There are lots of benefits to our lung health of getting regular physical activity, as well as positives for our general physical health and our mental wellbeing. Over the past few months, I’ve noticed more people getting outside and being active – with many people taking up walking, running and cycling.
In my January 2021 blog, I covered some of the great benefits of regular exercise and activity. I really hope this will become a new habit that will improve the health and wellbeing of many more people.
The second big thing many of us have noticed is that lockdown has led to a lot less traffic on the roads and better air quality in some areas. More children have been able to play on the streets, crossing the road has been easier and lots of us are breathing in cleaner air.
One in six people with a lung condition even told us that they’d seen an improvement in their symptoms since lockdown started, due to lower levels of pollution.
Poor air quality can be a trigger for many people with asthma, as the particles and gases in the air can irritate the nose, throat and lungs. And as lockdown starts to ease, road traffic and pollution are likely to increase for a variety of reasons, including potential wariness around using public transport.
At the same time, pollen levels will be increasing around the country. Both can trigger asthma symptoms, including asthma attacks. When pollution levels are high, it can lead to more people with asthma being admitted to hospital, so it’s extra important at these times to stick to your asthma routine. We also know that long-term exposure to high levels of pollution can lead to more people being diagnosed with asthma.
Top tips to manage your asthma on high pollution days
Keep an eye on the pollution forecast and the weather forecast, so you know when pollution levels are high. Pollution tends to hang around on still days – especially when it’s hot or foggy. Wind tends to reduce pollution levels.
Take your regular medication, as prescribed. Your preventer inhaler will dampen down any inflammation in your airways and this makes it less likely that you’ll get asthma symptoms.
Carry your reliever inhaler with you at all times, in case you get symptoms.
Avoid likely pollution hotspots. These are usually busy roads, junctions, bus stations and car parks. When heading out, choose quieter routes, back streets and parks, where possible. It’s also worth remembering that pollution levels can build up as the day goes on. Heading out early for your exercise can be a great way to reduce your exposure to pollution.
Speak to your GP or asthma nurse if your symptoms are not settling, or if you have asthma and are needing your reliever inhaler 3 or more times per week.
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Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation are campaigning for clean air and healthy lungs across our towns and cities. But we need your help to demand change from politicians. Sign up today and get involved.
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