4 ways to prevent asthma attacks in the rain... Ministry of Health tips
While many eagerly await winter and rainfall to enjoy the beautiful scenery and the distinctive scent that follows the rain, this weather poses a significant health challenge and requires constant vigilance for a specific segment of society: asthma sufferers. Sudden weather changes, a drop in temperature, and a rise in humidity form what is known as the "danger triangle," which can irritate the airways and lead to acute respiratory attacks that may necessitate immediate medical intervention.
Why are winter and rain enemies of asthma patients?
From a medical and physiological perspective, inhaling cold, dry air leads to dryness of the airways and narrowing of the bronchi, making normal breathing difficult. Furthermore, winds accompanying rain may carry pollen or mold and fungal spores that thrive in humidity, putting the respiratory system under extreme strain. Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide, and emergency room visits increase significantly both globally and locally during periods of fluctuating weather, highlighting the importance of preventative awareness to alleviate the burden on the healthcare system and protect lives.
Ministry of Health advice for prevention
In its commitment to public safety, the Saudi Ministry of Health stressed the importance of taking strict precautionary measures during these weather conditions. The Ministry explained that prevention begins with avoiding direct irritants, and advised asthma sufferers to cover their head, mouth, and nose when going outside to warm the air before it enters their lungs.
The four most important preventive measures are summarized below:
- Staying at home: Avoid going out during rainfall or severe cold waves except when absolutely necessary, while adhering to wearing a mask or covering the face well.
- Close monitoring of the weather: Rely on official sources such as the National Center for Meteorology to find out the weather forecast and avoid climate surprises.
- Emergency inhaler readiness: Make sure you have a bronchodilator (emergency inhaler) and that it is within its expiry date, and always carry it in your pocket or bag.
- Adherence to the treatment plan: Do not neglect the preventive inhaler prescribed by the doctor, as it helps reduce bronchial inflammation in the long term, with the possibility of consulting the doctor to adjust the doses preventively in winter.
When should you go to the emergency room?
Health authorities have warned that delaying seeking care can lead to serious complications. You should go immediately to the nearest healthcare facility in the following cases:
- Lack of response to the rescue inhaler and continued shortness of breath.
- The symptoms worsened rapidly and suddenly.
- Signs of oxygen deficiency appear, such as blueness of the extremities (fingers), lips, or tongue.
