Acting Director Public Health Unit, April Roberts-Witteveen is reminding all people with asthma, as well as people who are affected by hayfever during spring, about their risk of an asthma event during a thunderstorm.
“It is important to be aware that you could be at risk of breathing difficulties during this thunderstorm asthma season, even if you don’t think you have asthma”, said Ms Roberts-Witteveen.
“Thunderstorms can cause pollen grains to explode and release fine particles which can be inhaled more deeply into the lungs.”
MLHD’s Public Health Unit, in partnership with Charles Sturt University, will be monitoring thunderstorm activity and pollen count levels and issuing alerts at high-risk times.
Charles Sturt University also has an SMS alert system when the pollen counts are high and thunderstorms are predicted. Anyone can register for these alerts by:
“People should be prepared, not alarmed,” said Ms Roberts-Witteveen.
“If you are diagnosed with asthma, carry your asthma medication with you at all times during this high-risk period.
“Also, make sure your family, school or workplace knows that you have asthma and give them a copy of your asthma management plan.”
People who have allergies to grass pollens should also be aware that when thunderstorms are around, they may experience new symptoms such as breathlessness, wheezing and tightness in the chest.
Thunderstorm asthma can affect people who have never had asthma before so it is wise to take some simple precautions when thunderstorms are forecast.
“Where possible avoid being outside in the lead up to, and during thunderstorms over the next four weeks. When it is windy and pollens are being blown about, the risk is likely to be greater. Stay inside during storms, with the doors and windows closed,” said Ms Roberts-Witteveen.
“NSW Ambulance, and our local hospital emergency departments, are prepared for an increase in patients with breathing difficulties, so seek assistance without delay.”
Breathing difficulties can be life threatening. In the event of a breathing emergency dial triple zero (000) immediately.
You can read more from NSW Health about thunderstorm asthma.
