The ongoing heatwave conditions in the country can spell bad news for asthma patients who could experience exacerbation in their symptoms. Extreme weather including severe heat is linked with irritated and inflamed airways and narrowing of bronchial tubes. Scorching heat also affects air quality which could increase ozone pollution and particulate pollution.
All these factors can lead to asthma attacks or worsen the disease. It's thus important for asthma patients to prevent heat exposure, stay hydrated and follow their prescribed medications religiously.
What is asthma and why World Asthma Day is celebrated?
Asthma, a common respiratory disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the small airways in the lungs can lead to worrying symptoms like cough, wheeze, shortness of breath and chest tightness. World Asthma Day is celebrated every year on the first Tuesday of May to spread awareness around the respiratory disease and how to manage it to reduce mortality and improve quality of life. This year World Asthma Day is being celebrated on May 7, Tuesday.
Challenges of tackling asthma in hot and humid conditions
"In hot and humid conditions, managing asthma becomes particularly challenging due to several factors that exacerbate symptoms. These conditions can trigger airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and increase exposure to air pollutants, all of which can worsen asthma symptoms. One of the primary challenges for asthma patients during heatwaves is increased airway inflammation.
High temperatures and humidity levels can lead to the release of pro-inflammatory mediators in the airways, causing swelling and narrowing of the bronchial tubes. This inflammation makes it harder for individuals with asthma to breathe, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness," says Dr RK Chopra, MD (medicine), MD (Respiratory medicine), Senior Consultant Respiratory Medicine Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune.
