Why Asthma Flares-Up in Monsoon? 6 Ways to Manage it During Rainy Season

Rainy days can lower the temperature, but they also tend to make asthma worse. People with asthma often complain of breathing problems during the monsoon.

Monsoon is about calling it a rainy day and working from home, it’s about eating chai-pakoda or maggi, long drives and old songs, and sometimes it’s just about the humidity that will drench you in perspiration. And the last type is not at all a favorite. Monsoon with his romantics also brings health problems. The environment is just right to allow fungal infections and viruses to thrive and cause waterborne diseases. Due to that climate, asthmatic people also face problems as asthma tends to come back during the rainy season. Humidity and pollen in the air can sometimes make asthma worse in some people.

But what exactly is it in the rainy season that makes asthma worse in the monsoons?

Why is asthma worse in the monsoon?

Asthma is a disease characterized by inflammation of the airways. Patients suffering from asthma have a history of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. Symptoms vary over time and if asthma is not controlled or left untreated, it can lead to persistent airflow limitation.

Asthma can affect anyone at any age. There are multiple triggers for an asthma attack, of which the monsoon can also be one. Here are the various ways the monsoons could be responsible for an asthma attack:

• Cold weather: Cold weather during monsoons can release a chemical called histamine in the body. This can trigger asthma symptoms, including wheezing.
• Elevated pollen counts: Pollen increases in the environment during the rainy season. People who are allergic to pollen grains may have an asthma attack.
• Humidity: As humidity levels rise in the environment, a nest for mold and mildew growth is created inside buildings, which can also trigger an asthma attack.
• poor sunlight: Vitamin D is synthesized in your body in the presence of sunlight and is needed to keep your lungs healthy. Low sunlight also contributes to increased humidity and promotes mold growth.
• Allergens and viral infections: Various bacteria, viruses, fungi and dust mites thrive during monsoons. This can trigger allergies and increase the risk of an asthma attack.

How to control asthma during monsoons?

1. Keep the inhaler nearby: Continue your inhaled medications to keep your asthma under control.
2. Hot food and drinks: Avoid consumption of cold food and drinks to minimize the effects of asthma. Maintain a healthy and nutritious diet. Protein-rich foods, brown rice, sprouts, leafy greens, carrots, cabbage, cauliflower, and eggs help boost immunity.
3. Steam: Steam inhalation offers a calming and comforting sensation for the respiratory tract. However, avoid using multiple oils or salts, as this can cause irritation of the airways and lead to wheezing.
4. clean environment: House dust, mites and damp walls are triggers for an asthma attack. Regular vacuuming, cleaning air conditioner filters, and changing sheets and pillowcases help reduce exposure to dust and mold. Stay away from people who are sick.
5. Avoid allergens: Stay away from dusty, pollution-rich areas and pollen-laden plants, and avoid smoking. Also, try to avoid contact with pets, especially furry ones.
6. vaccines: Regular vaccinations against seasonal flu and pneumonia help reduce the chances of infection and ultimately trigger asthma.

However, choosing a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of this disease and improve overall health. In case the situation worsens, it is best to consult a doctor immediately.