As spring unfolds, bringing with it clear blue skies and blooming flowers, many are enjoying the seasonal shift.
However, for a significant number, this period signals a heightened concern for their respiratory health.
Karen Spillett, deputy head of health advice at the charity Asthma + Lung UK, has explained how this time of year can profoundly impact lung function.
This is particularly so for those with existing conditions such as asthma, and has provided useful practical tips for managing these symptoms.
What can trigger your lungs in spring?
Pollen
“Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen and if you have a lung condition your airways tend to be quite sensitive anyway and something like pollen can make them more sensitive,” says Spillett. “This can lead to symptoms such as wheezing a little bit more, feeling more breathless and more tight across your chest because your body is reacting to that trigger of pollen.”
Changes in weather
“Very cold weather or hot weather can be a trigger for lots of people with lung conditions,” says Spillett. “Rising temperatures can also worsen air pollution which is bad for your lungs, so it’s important to check the daily forecast and pollution levels.”
Damp and mould
Very damp conditions can also cause issues.
“When it’s damp, that build-up of moisture can cause mould to grow which is bad for your lungs,” says Spillett. “Mould exposure can cause coughing, wheezing, breathlessness and other respiratory issues. It can also make any pre-existing symptoms worse.”
Dust
It’s important to be careful when clearing out junk and spreading dust during the much-needed spring cleans.
“Dust gets into the air and can go into your mouth and nose and irritate your airways,” says Spillett.
Some tips on how to look after your lungs this spring…
Dust with a damp cloth
“One tip is to use a damp cloth when you’re wiping dust so that it sticks to the wetness of the cloth and doesn’t irritate your airways,” recommends Spillett.
Open the windows
“It’s good to lower any humidity or dampness in your house by opening your windows regularly and using an extractor fan in your bathroom or your kitchen,” says Spillett.
Dry clothes outside
“Drying clothes inside leads to a build-up in moisture which can result in mould, so I would recommend putting your damp washing on a line outside if you can,” suggests Spillett.
Check for pollen levels
“If you suffer with hay fever or know that pollen impacts your symptoms, I would recommend checking the pollen forecast on the Met Office website,” advises Spillett.
Don’t ignore leaks or water damage
“If you do see any leaks or water damage in your home, you need to get that fixed,” says Spillett. “If you rent, you need to tell your landlord as soon as possible.”
Ask pharmacist for antihistamines
“If you are really struggling with hay fever, you can get antihistamines from a pharmacist and they can advise you when to take them and for how long,” says Spillett.
“If you know when your symptoms are likely to start, I would recommend that you start taking antihistamines two to four weeks before that point to give you the best protection.”
Try a nasal spray
“Nasal spray has small amounts of steroids in it that can help reduce the swelling in your nose to help you breathe more easily,” says Spillett. “You can buy some of these from a pharmacist, but others are prescription only.”
Go outdoors earlier in the day
“Consider doing most of your outdoor activities and exercise earlier in the day when air quality tends to be better,” suggests Spillett. “Walking along quieter back streets away from the traffic, rather than a main road, is also a good idea when possible.”
Take medication
“For anyone with a lung condition, it’s important to carry on taking your medications as described, even when you feel well, to manage that sensitivity in the airways,” says Spillett. “Make sure you have a reliever inhaler with you at all times, so if you do start to feel those symptoms, you can use it.”
Seek professional help
“If you have been using your reliever inhaler and it’s not working how you would expect it to, seek help,” advises Spillett. “Similarly, if you’re feeling like your symptoms are getting worse and are interfering with your daily activities or are waking you up at night, seek support.”
