Urgent weather warning as millions at risk of life-threatening ‘thunderstorm asthma’
MILLIONS of Brits are at risk of “thunderstorm asthma”, experts say.
After storms hit the country on Monday and Tuesday, sufferers could find their symptoms are worsened by the weather.
The Met Office predicts England, Wales and eastern Scotland will suffer thundery outbreaks of rain today, although the weather should become drier from tomorrow.
However, the storms' effects could last longer for some asthma and hay fever sufferers because pollen in the air is broken up into smaller particles.
These get into your lungs more easily, causing wheezing, coughing, a tight chest, and shortness of breath.
UK Health Security Agency data shows there was a spike in thunderstorm-related asthma emergency hospital cases on Sunday, June 11, the latest date data is available for.
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The rise was equivalent to the peak numbers for asthma seen during winter.
Charities warn the current thundery weather could cause a further surge in cases.
Emma Rubach, of Asthma + Lung UK, said: “More than 5million Brits have asthma and changes in weather, pollen, air pollution and thunderstorms are all triggers for the condition.
“People with asthma who have hay fever can experience much more severe symptoms during thunderstorms.”
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Higher pollution levels — common during hot weather — can also trigger dangerous asthma attacks.
Ms Rubach said: “The good news is there are steps people can take to reduce the impact of thunderstorm asthma, however.
“Firstly, they should take their preventer inhaler as prescribed, and should also make sure they are taking antihistamines and steroid nasal sprays, if needed, to help control their pollen allergy.
“They should also keep their reliever inhaler with them in case of emergencies, as this relaxes the muscles in the airways and helps to relieve sudden asthma symptoms.”
She added: “We’d also advise staying indoors during thunderstorms if possible, and on hot, stormy days keeping inhaler medications in cool, dry areas at home.
“They should also be kept in a dry cool bag when outdoors as they may not work as well when exposed to hot temperatures or damp environments.”