Keeping your lungs safe this summer

The onset of warmer weather brings with it all sorts of risks for those with lung conditions. Here, charity Asthma + Lung UK shares the best advice to help you breathe easy

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Summertime is a cause for celebration for most of us, bringing higher temperatures, blooming gardens, holidays and family days out. But for millions of Brits with lung conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), it can invite a host of triggers that can prompt flare-ups or lead to life-threatening situations.

High pollen levels, pollution, heat, and even barbecue smoke can be dangerous, so it's important to know what precautions vulnerable people need to take, says Dr Andrew Whittamore, Clinical Lead at charity Asthma + Lung UK.

"We all look forward to summer and the fun it brings with it, but people with asthma and other lung conditions like COPD must be careful to keep themselves safe too," says Dr Whittamore, who is also a GP.

"Things like hot weather, dust in the atmosphere or higher levels of pollen and air pollution circulating in the air can make it harder for those with lung illnesses to breathe.

"Strong emotions, stress and even laughing a lot are also known asthma triggers, so we want people to be armed with the knowledge they need to protect themselves while enjoying everything this season has to offer."

Warm weather

Hot weather can be problematic for people with asthma or other lung conditions because warmer air can sometimes cause the airways to narrow, leading to shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing.

Strong sunshine also causes the level of ozone and other air pollutants in the atmosphere to rise, which can trigger symptoms, particularly when air pollution levels are high.

"The best way to safeguard yourself if you are affected by warm weather is to use your preventer inhaler regularly as prescribed, if you have one, as this helps stop your lungs from reacting to changes in the air," says Dr Whittamore. "Also, carry your reliever inhaler everywhere with you so you can quickly deal with symptoms if they come on."