1800 278 462
Hot weather can be challenging for people with asthma. For some people it can make symptoms worse and even trigger asthma attacks and flare-ups.
Extreme heat can impact asthma both directly and indirectly. When it’s very hot, you can get dehydrated, and your body works harder to regulate its temperature. This extra stress can cause inflammation in your airways, increase mucus production and airway tightening. These things can all make breathing more difficult.
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Heat doesn’t just affect your body – it also changes the environment around you. Hot weather can increase asthma triggers like smoke from bushfires and pollen. Humid conditions may also encourage dust mites and mold, which are common triggers for people with asthma.
Extreme heat can also have an effect on some medicines. Inhalers and other devices can malfunction or break if they get really hot, which can leave you unprepared when symptoms strike.
People with asthma are at a higher risk of feeling unwell during extreme heat. Other people at risk include people with other medical conditions, older people, babies and young children, pregnant people, people working or exercising outdoors and people who are socially isolated.
Managing asthma during hot weather
Making sure you are managing your asthma well is the most important way to prepare for hot weather. This includes making sure you’re using your preventer medicine as prescribed and that your Asthma Action Plan is up to date.
It’s also important to store your asthma medicines correctly. Keep inhalers below 30°C and out of direct sunlight. Never leave them in hot places, like a parked car, where temperatures can rise quickly.
Pay close attention to your symptoms during hot weather, as they might feel different from what you’re used to. If your asthma starts to worsen, follow your Asthma Action Plan and call for help in the event of an emergency.
What can you do to stay cool this summer?
Taking simple steps to stay cool can help to avoid the effects of heat during extreme temperatures. These include:
- Drink water: Stay hydrated, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid sugary drinks, alcohol, or hot drinks.
- Keep your home cool by:
- using fans or air conditioning if you have them
- closing blinds or curtains to block sunlight and
- opening windows during cooler parts of the day.
- Dress for the weather: Wear light, loose clothing and a hat when outdoors.
- Take breaks: Visit air-conditioned places like libraries or shopping centres when it gets too hot at home.
- Keep your body cool: Use a damp towel, cool showers, or a spray bottle to stay comfortable.
Extreme heat can cause serious health problems, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Some symptoms to watch for include heavy sweating, dizziness or fainting, headaches, rapid pulse, nausea and muscle cramps. If you or someone you know shows these signs, it’s important to act quickly by cooling down and seeking medical help if needed.
Preparation can make a big difference during hot weather. Check weather forecasts regularly and plan your activities to avoid extreme heat if possible. If you’re unsure how to manage your asthma in hot weather or need an updated Asthma Action Plan, reach out to your doctor or call 1800 ASTHMA (1800 278 462) to speak to an Asthma Educator – or book a call for a time that suits you.