Spring Asthma Triggers - How to Manage Them

Spring is a beautiful time of year, flowers bloom, the weather is warmer and the days get longer. But for people with asthma, spring can bring an unwelcoming surge in symptoms. Pollen from grasses, trees, and weeds is one of the most common asthma triggers during spring. As pollen levels rise, the risk of wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath also increases.

Pollen and Hay Fever

Pollen from grasses, trees, and weeds are the most common asthma triggers during spring. As pollen levels rise, the risk of wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath also increases.

What you can do:

• Check the daily pollen count on weather apps or websites and try to stay indoors when the levels are high
• Keep windows closed on windy days
• Shower and change clothes after spending time outside
• Consider wearing a mask when gardening or exercising outdoors

Changes in Weather

Sudden shifts in temperature, humidity or wind can irritate the airways. When it's cool morning air or stormy weather, your symptoms may worsen.

What you can do:

• Warm up slowly before exercising outdoors
• Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf on cold mornings
• Use your preventer inhaler regularly to keep airways stable

Airborne Irritants

Spring cleaning, smoke and pollution can all trigger asthma symptoms. Even strong fragrances or cleaning sprays can cause flare-ups.

What you can do:

• Use fragrance-free or natural cleaning products
• Avoid exposure to smoke and open fires
• Keep your home well-ventilated but pollen-safe

Colds and Viruses

Another major trigger in Spring is colds and respiratory viruses. These infections can inflame the airways and make symptoms harder to control.

What you can do:

• Wash your hands often and avoid close contact with people who are unwell
• Stay up to date with your flu and COVID vaccinations
• See your GP if you notice symptoms worsening or need help with your asthma plan

Stay Prepared

If you have asthma, spring is a good time to review your asthma action plan with your GP. Make sure you know:

• Which inhalers to use and when
• How to monitor your symptoms
• What to do if your asthma flares up

At Our Medical, our bulk billing GPs can review and refer you to a Respiratory Specialist for your asthma management plan.

Respiratory Specialist

Dr Mahsa Mirdamadi is the Respiratory Specialist at Our Medical Williams Landing and Our Medical Caroline Springs. She has extensive experience in the diagnosis and management of a wide range of respiratory conditions, including lung cancer, asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis, and interstitial lung disease. Respiratory consultations are Medicare Bulk Billed, GP referral required.

Dr Mirdamadi availability is

• Monday to Thursday at Our Medical Williams Landing
• Fridays at Our Medical Caroline Springs

Speak to your GP for a referral, and download the Our Medical app from the App Store or Google Play. Book under Allied/Specialists appointments.