As spring approaches, take steps to manage your asthma symptoms

In Minnesota, we’re lucky to experience all four seasons, but changing seasons can pose challenges to how our bodies react to the elements. For those with asthma, the shift in seasons and environment can trigger undesirable changes in asthma symptoms.

Asthma is a chronic condition that causes the airways of the lungs to swell and narrow. This makes breathing difficult and can cause wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest and coughing. The substances that cause inflammation and irritate your lungs are known as “triggers.” Nicole Roeder, MD, Pulmonology, Ridgeview, explains, “Asthma is a very diverse lung condition—what causes one person’s asthma to trigger may be very different from others.”

Asthma triggers

According to the American Lung Association, there are several factors that play a role in the development of asthma, but there is no singular known cause of asthma. These factors include family history, allergies, occupational exposures, smoking, air pollution and obesity.

The changing seasons can worsen asthma because the air may be filled with various pollens, dust, pollutants and air humidity/dryness—which can all contribute to worsening symptoms. “Asthma is very unique to each person,” Dr. Roeder explains. “Some patients have worsening symptoms in the winter due to the dry, cold air while others may struggle more in hot, humid weather. Others are triggered by exposure to strong scents or perfumes, pet dander and smoke of any kind, including second-hand tobacco smoke.”

For some, lifestyle factors may contribute to asthma symptoms. For example, during the winter you may find yourself spending more time indoors, exposing yourself to increased dust and dander. In the spring and summer months you might have your windows open more frequently, exposing yourself to pollens and air pollutants. Everyone’s asthma triggers are different, so it is important to identify what prompts your asthma so you can avoid them as much as possible.

Managing symptoms

There is no cure for asthma, and you may not be able to prevent the condition, but research suggests that keeping your home free from dust and mold, avoiding air pollutants and managing a healthy weight can all help.

For those living with asthma, Dr. Roeder advises that you take your medications as prescribed, know what triggers your asthma and avoid them if possible. If you smoke cigarettes, make every effort to quit. Lastly, if you have increasing symptoms, check in with your provider who manages your asthma.

Asthma can develop in adolescence and in adulthood—if you are experiencing symptoms of asthma, or if your asthma worsens, schedule an appointment with a Ridgeview provider.