With mild temperatures and gentle showers, the rainy season may be a lovely time of year. However, it can also provide a number of difficulties for those who have asthma. Allergies to pollen, mould, and increased humidity can all worsen asthma attacks, so people with asthma need to take additional care during the rainy season. Hence, we got in touch with Dr Pratibha Dogra, Senior Consultant- Pulmonology, Marengo Asia Hospital Gurugram who shares useful suggestions that will help you efficiently manage your asthma during the rainy season.

Dr Pratibha Dogra shares that the first step in controlling your asthma is to recognise and understand the unique triggers that cause it. During the wet season, common triggers include:

- Humidity and Dampness: Excessive humidity might lead to inflammatory and constricted airways.

- Mold and mildew: Wet conditions serve as havens for the growth of mould and mildew, which can emit airborne spores that aggravate asthma attacks.

- Pollen: While it's usually connected with spring, some plants emit pollen during the rainy season, which some people may find to be a trigger.

- Cold Air: Sensitive people may get bronchospasm due to the abrupt drop in temperature that occurs during rainy seasons.

Dr Pratibha Dogra shares it is essential to maintain clean, irritant-free indoor air. Here's how to go about it:

- Apply a Dehumidifier: Apply a dehumidifier to regulate the humidity levels within buildings. Reducing humidity to less than 50% can aid in the inhibition of mould formation.

- Clean Often: Dust mites, mould, and other allergens can be reduced with frequent cleaning. Vacuum your home with a HEPA filter, and wash your curtains and bedding often.

- Stay away from indoor plants: Despite their aesthetic appeal, indoor plants can increase humidity and promote the formation of mildew.

- Air Purifiers: To lessen airborne allergens, think about utilizing an air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter.

Dr Pratibha Dogra shares that maintaining control over asthma symptoms requires proper medication management:

- Adhere to Your Asthma Action Plan: Work with your healthcare practitioner to create a written asthma action plan. It should include instructions on when to seek medical attention, what medications to take, and how to treat worsening symptoms.

- Keep Your Inhaler Handy: Keep your rescue inhaler close at hand in case you experience an asthma attack.

- Preventive Medication: Comply with prescriptions for preventive drugs. They can aid in lowering inflammation and averting asthma episodes

Dr Pratibha Dogra explains even though it's preferable to stay indoors during a downpour if you must go outside, please take the following safety measures:

- Put on a mask: A mask helps block out allergens such as pollen and other airborne particles.

- Minimize Exposure: Steer clear of the outdoors in the early morning and late afternoon when the pollen count is at its peak.

- Remain Dry: To prevent damp clothing from causing a drop in body temperature and aggravating asthma symptoms, wear a raincoat and use an umbrella.

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Dr Pratibha Dogra shares that during the rainy season, modifying one's lifestyle can also aid in the more effective management of asthma. Drinking lots of water to stay hydrated thins mucus, making it simpler to clear the airways. An anti-inflammatory and generally healthful diet high in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids is recommended. During the rainy season, you can stay active without exposing yourself to outside irritants and cold air by choosing inside workouts like yoga or pilates.

Dr Pratibha Dogra explains that people with asthma, are ready for anything that might happen at any time. Identify the early warning symptoms of an asthma attack, which include tightness in the chest, coughing, and wheezing. Seek emergency medical assistance if, even after taking your rescue inhaler, your symptoms worsen. Have a list of emergency contacts on hand that includes your doctor and the closest hospital.

Seeing your doctor regularly will help you keep an eye on your asthma and change your treatment plan as needed. Talk about any changes in your symptoms and occasionally check your asthma action plan, she shares.

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