Thunderstorm Induced Asthma

Did you see the lightening storm in NYC this past week?  Wow- it was amazing! The sky was filled with an amazing display of electricity and air with loud claps of thunder.   I really enjoyed watching it, but also waited for the second wave you may not know about...

The day after a thunder/lightening storm there is a  10 fold increase in asthma admissions to the emergency department!

So what's going on? 

Many would think that the rain would "clean the air" of pollen and pollutants knocking the irritants from the air to the ground, but this doesn't seem to be the case.  Why do thunderstorms trigger asthma? 


We don't know...

Some possible hypotheses on why thunderstorms trigger asthma are:

• Perhaps it's a device used by nature to pollinate when there's water available for things to grow.
   
• Others hypothesize that pollen grains rupture with contact from rain drops.  The grains get picked up by the winds occupanied by the storm spreading them down stream. 
• Fungal and mold spores increase the day after a storm along with pollen counts. 

Regardless of the reason, if you suffer from thunderstrom induced asthma, be prepared with your medications so you don't end up in the emergency room!

Here are some tips to prevent thunderstrom induced asthma:

• Stay indoors the day after a storm
• Have your medications on hand, make sure they aren't expired.
• Keep your windows closed the day after the storm
• Follow your asthma action plan

Most of all- if you are having signs/symptoms of asthma see your doctor early on.  Sadly, each day 9 people die from asthma. 
Need help getting your asthma under control this spring or what other tips?  See an allergist and find relief! Click here to find an allergist in your neighborhood

Want to set up an appointment with me? Call the office 212-679-3574 or  Click here