Breathe easy with expert care from OneMedicine Private GP Clinic
Summer means sunshine, longer days, and more time outdoors. But for those with asthma, it also brings the challenge of triggers like pollen, pollution, and humidity. At OneMedicine Private GP Clinic, we believe in making asthma management simple, effective, and part of your everyday life. Here’s how to stay in control when the weather changes.
What Triggers Asthma Exacerbations in Summer?
Asthma can be more difficult to manage when the weather warms up. During the summer, three main factors play a role in exacerbating asthma:
- Pollen: Trees, grass, and weeds release more pollen in the warmer months. High pollen counts can cause your airways to become inflamed and make it harder to breathe.
- Pollution: Rising levels of air pollution, particularly in cities, can irritate your lungs and trigger asthma flare-ups.
- Humidity: High humidity can make the air feel heavy and harder to breathe. It can also increase the risk of allergens like dust mites, which can worsen asthma symptoms.
Signs & Symptoms of Asthma Exacerbations
In summer, it’s important to recognize when your asthma is worsening. Watch out for:
✔ Wheezing: A high-pitched sound when breathing
✔ Shortness of breath: Feeling breathless even with mild activity
✔ Chest tightness: A heavy or tight feeling in your chest
✔ Coughing: Especially at night or in the early morning
✔ Increased inhaler use: Needing your reliever inhaler more than usual
If your symptoms become more frequent or severe, it’s time to talk to your GP.
How to Treat Asthma Exacerbations
Effective treatment for asthma exacerbations is about using the right medication at the right time. Here’s how:
- Reliever Inhalers: These provide quick relief by opening up your airways. They’re great for managing sudden flare-ups.
- Preventer Inhalers: Taken regularly, preventer inhalers reduce inflammation in the airways and help prevent exacerbations.
- Oral Steroids: For more severe flare-ups, your GP may recommend oral steroids to reduce inflammation fast.
- Nebulizers: In cases of severe asthma, nebulizers may be used to deliver medication directly to the airways in mist form.
At OneMedicine, we offer same-day private GP appointments to help you manage asthma flare-ups and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
How to Prevent Asthma Exacerbations in Summer
Prevention is key to managing asthma effectively. Here are simple steps to reduce your risk:
- Monitor Pollen Levels: Stay informed about local pollen counts, especially on dry, windy days. Limit outdoor activity when pollen levels are high.
- Avoid Pollution: Stay indoors on days with high air pollution. If you must go outside, wear a mask to protect your lungs.
- Control Humidity: Use air conditioning or a dehumidifier to keep indoor air cool and dry, helping to reduce asthma triggers.
- Take Your Medications as Prescribed: Stick to your regular preventer inhaler even when you’re feeling fine. Consistency is crucial.
- Track Your Triggers: Keep a journal to identify patterns and triggers, so you can plan your activities accordingly.
When to See a Private GP
If your asthma symptoms are getting harder to manage, or if you need advice on adjusting your treatment, OneMedicine Private GP Clinic is here for you. Book an appointment if:
✔ You notice increased shortness of breath or chest tightness
✔ You’re using your inhaler more than usual
✔ Your asthma symptoms aren’t improving with medication
✔ You’re feeling unwell or unsure about your treatment
Our private GP appointments are quick, convenient, and tailored to your needs.
Breathe Easy This Summer
Summer shouldn’t be about worrying whether your asthma will flare up. With the right care and the right approach, you can enjoy the season with ease. At OneMedicine Private GP Clinic, we make managing asthma simple — so you can breathe easy and focus on what matters most.
Book your private GP appointment today, and take control of your asthma this summer.
