Many are waiting for spring—a wonderful time of blooming flowers and warm sun. Unfortunately, for those who suffer from asthma, a difficult period begins. Asthma in the spring can be more difficult to control. We spend more time outdoors, and there is more pollen. This can trigger asthma symptoms. But don’t despair. There is always a way out. We will tell you how to control asthma symptoms in the spring. And let this wonderful time be a holiday for you.
How to Protect Yourself from Asthma in Spring
Can seasonal allergies trigger asthma? Of course! So at this time, it is especially important to take care of yourself. Let’s look at some simple tips.
Identify Your Triggers
Recognize your personal triggers. What triggers your asthma? Common spring asthma culprits include tree, grass, and flower pollens, temperature changes, and changes in air quality. Keep a symptom log to track patterns. This will help you pinpoint and avoid specific triggers.
Track Pollen Levels
Monitor local pollen forecasts using weather apps or websites. Limit your time outdoors on high pollen days, especially during peak periods of early morning and late evening. Wear sunglasses, hats, and long pants in grassy areas. Consider wearing a mask on high-pollen days.
Allergen-Free Home
Create an allergen sanctuary in your home. Keep windows closed during pollen peaks. Vacuum, dust, and use hypoallergenic bedding regularly. This will help reduce indoor allergens. Air purifiers may be needed at times.
Explore Allergy Relief Options
Over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal sprays, or eye drops can help relieve mild symptoms.
For persistent allergies, see your doctor or allergist. They may recommend immunotherapy (allergy shots) or stronger treatments.
Stick to Medication Plans
Consistency is key. Take your daily controller medication as prescribed, even if your symptoms subside. Always carry your emergency inhaler with you. Are symptoms getting worse? Be sure to talk to your doctor to adjust your treatment plan.
Exercise
Physical activity is always important, but adapt your exercise routine to avoid triggers. Choose indoor exercise on high pollen days or exercise outdoors at midday when pollen levels drop. Always keep your inhaler nearby.
Treat Hay Fever Symptoms
Controlling hay fever is an important part of overall seasonal asthma management. Hay fever can make asthma worse and harder to control. Treatment for hay fever depends on the severity and frequency of symptoms. Treatment options include:
- Antihistamines or decongestants
- Saline sprays/irrigations
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays
- Allergen immunotherapy
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the best treatment.
Eliminate Household Allergens
Mold is common in some homes and can be a persistent asthma trigger. Mold fragments become airborne and can cause allergic and asthmatic reactions in some people. Allergic and asthmatic reactions can in turn cause inflammation of the airways. This is how asthma symptoms develop. Effective cleaning will minimize the build-up of mold spores and their potential impact on respiratory conditions. Dust for people with asthma can be a major trigger of asthma symptoms and flare-ups. Minimize exposure to these allergens as much as possible, as dust and dust mites can act as irritants to sensitive airways.
Low Allergen Gardens
Gardens can contain allergens that can trigger asthma, hay fever, and allergy symptoms. Here are some basic tips for reducing the impact of gardening on your asthma. Choose brightly colored, large flowering plants that are pollinated by birds/insects rather than the wind, as they do not release pollen into the air. Avoid plants with strong fragrances or scents (such as jasmine), especially those planted near entrances, entryways, or windows. Exceptions include roses. Select native or slow-growing grasses with low or no pollen that do not require frequent mowing. Use pebbles or gravel to reduce weeds and mold spores. Frequent weeding of the garden is necessary to prevent them from flowering or seeding. Avoid compost heaps. Do not garden on windy days when pollen can become airborne.
Thunderstorm Asthma
So-called thunderstorm asthma can be very serious for people predisposed to the condition. If Grass pollen is a problem for you; thunderstorms in the spring and summer can also affect you. Some types of pollen can burst and release tiny particles that concentrate in the wind just before a thunderstorm. These small particles are further inhaled and can cause asthma symptoms. To avoid exposure, stay indoors with windows and doors closed until the thunderstorm has passed.
The risk of thunderstorm asthma is highest in adults who are sensitive to grass pollen and suffer from seasonal hay fever. The worst outcomes are seen in people with poorly controlled asthma.
Schedule Regular Asthma Check-ups
Meet with your healthcare provider every 6 to 12 months to monitor or adjust your treatment. Discuss how your current plan is working. Review whether you are taking the right preventer or reliever medication. Make sure you are using your inhalers correctly. Update your asthma plan to reflect seasonal triggers, such as pollen. Learn how to adapt your routine to spring risks (e.g., thunderstorms, high pollen counts). Regular check-ups help identify problems early and keep your management tailored to your needs.
Create (or Update) Your Asthma Action Plan
Include a step-by-step guide to daily management and flare-ups. Note your personalized triggers (e.g., pollen, mold) and how to avoid them. Clarify medication dosages and when to seek emergency care.
Benefits of a written plan:
- Fewer symptoms and flare-ups.
- Less reliance on reliever medication.
- Reduce hospital visits and missed work/school days.
- Keep a digital copy on your phone and share it with family, co-workers, or teachers.
Use Preventers
Preventers reduce inflammation in your airways, making them less susceptible to triggers like pollen. Take them every day, even if you feel well. Combine them with your daily routine (like after brushing your teeth) to ensure consistency. Never skip a dose in the spring—high pollen counts require extra protection. Preventers are your long-term protection; relievers are for emergencies.
Perfect Your Inhaler Technique
Surprisingly, many asthmatics use their inhalers incorrectly. Don’t shake the inhaler, avoid inhaling too quickly, or skip doses. Learn about spacers—they help more medicine get into your lungs. Of course, your doctor will help you choose the right device based on your situation and health characteristics.
Learn Asthma First Aid
Be prepared for emergencies. Take 4 puffs of your inhaler (with a spacer, if available) every 4 minutes. Call 911 if symptoms worsen or do not improve within 4 minutes.
Seek Professional Advice
If symptoms persist despite taking precautions, talk to your doctor. Get more information on managing your asthma from a professional who knows you. Welcome to Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California! Our practice was founded in 1980. Today, we provide exceptional allergy and asthma care to children and adults. Contact us anytime. Relieve your painful asthma symptoms and make spring your favorite time of year.
