Thunderstorms cause of asthma spike in NSW

A ‘spike’ in asthma-related accident and emergency attendances has been recorded and linked to extensive thunderstorm activity across New South Wales (NSW).

NSW emergency departments recorded 126 visits on one day that were assigned a diagnosis of asthma, compared with a usual count of 68.

NSW Health director of environmental health, Dr Wayne Smith, said “These results are consistent with increases that often occur in regional NSW at this time of year, linked to thunderstorm activity combined with rye grass pollination.

“People who are allergic to grass pollens and who get hay fever at this time of the year may be more prone to develop asthma symptoms associated with thunderstorms.”

This phenomenon of “thunderstorm asthma” is most evident in late October and early November in NSW.

Research by Professor Guy Marks in collaboration with NSW Bureau of Meteorology in 2001 identified the cause of increased problems with asthma due to thunderstorms.

The downdraft from a thunderstorm disturbs pollen grains and particles, which are then concentrated in air at ground level. These pollens are a common cause of exacerbating asthma during pollen season.

Australian Bureau of Meteorology senior meteorologist, Julie Evans, said “The late spring and summer months see a peak in thunderstorm activity in NSW. Forecasts available on the Bureau’s website include information about the likelihood of thunderstorms across the state”.

Asthmatics should be aware that increased problems with asthma are very common when thunderstorms occur. It is vital that asthma sufferers and their carers are well prepared for the sudden onset of an exacerbating factor such as a thunderstorm.

Precautions should include:

• An Asthma Action Plan, tailored to their individual circumstances. Anyone who has a plan should have it reviewed at least once a year.
• Ensuring to take prescribed preventer medication and always carry reliever medication.
• Watching for asthma symptoms, especially in young children. Symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest or persistent coughing.

Those affected should respond promptly with medication and seek medical attention if the symptoms persist.

For more information, visit http://www.asthmafoundation.org.au including the latest pollen count each day, call the Asthma Information Line on 1800 645 130 or speak with your doctor.