Understanding Thunderstorm Asthma: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention - Dr Bharat Gopal

Written by Dr. Bharat Gopal Published On 2024-05-11T17:44:51+05:30 | Updated On 11 May 2024 5:44 PM IST

Understanding Thunderstorm Asthma: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention - Dr Bharat Gopal

Yesterday’s sudden thunderstorm and high-velocity winds could have other impacts than fallen trees and traffic jams. "Thunderstorm asthma" was first reported in the 1980s in England and Australia, with one such event reported from Melbourne, Australia, in 2016, when approximately 9,000 people visited Emergency Rooms.

These sudden storms have definite health consequences. What is described in literature is that such events lead to a concentration of pollen, allergens, and dust in the air. These particles are swept up into clouds where humidity is high.

In the clouds, the effects of wind, humidity, and lightning break up the particles to a size that can readily enter the nose, sinuses, and lungs. High-speed winds tend to then concentrate these small particles so that far greater amounts are inhaled.

These can harm anyone, but definitely those with pre-existing allergies and asthma and extremes of age –Children and elderly may suffer more. This may lead to symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes along with breathlessness and wheezing.

Thunderstorm asthma is a serious health concern that requires understanding its causes, symptoms, and prevention methods. Individuals can take proactive steps to minimize its impact on their health and well-being.

Causes of Thunderstorm Asthma

The main cause of thunderstorm asthma is the concentration of pollen, allergens, and dust particles in the air during thunderstorms. These particles become airborne and are broken down into smaller sizes by the effects of wind, humidity, and lightning. High-speed winds then further concentrate these particles, making them more easily inhalable.

Symptoms of Thunderstorm Asthma

Symptoms of thunderstorm asthma can vary in severity but commonly include a runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, breathlessness, and wheezing. These symptoms can develop rapidly during or shortly after exposure to the storm.

Prevention of Thunderstorm Asthma

To minimize the risk of thunderstorm asthma, individuals can take the following preventive measures:

Stay Indoors: During thunderstorms, especially for those with respiratory conditions, staying indoors can reduce exposure to airborne particles.
Close Windows: Keep windows and doors closed to prevent the entry of outdoor air containing allergens and pollutants.
Use Air Purifiers: Indoor air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters can help remove airborne allergens and pollutants, improving indoor air quality.
Wear Masks: In case staying indoors is not possible or if the home is not airtight, wearing N95/N99 masks can help prevent inhalation of harmful particles.
Take Medications: Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions should continue taking their prescribed medications properly and reach out to their doctor in case of symptoms.

By understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods of thunderstorm asthma, individuals can better protect themselves during thunderstorms and minimize the risk of respiratory distress. Prompt medical attention should be sought if symptoms of thunderstorm asthma occur, ensuring timely intervention and management.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are of the author and not of Medical Dialogues. The Editorial/Content team of Medical Dialogues has not contributed to the writing/editing/packaging of this article.

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Dr. Bharat Gopal

Dr Bharat Gopal, MBBS, MD(TB & Respiratory Diseases), DNB(Respiratory Diseases), MNAMS, FAPSR, FCCP(USA) , FIAMS, is a Director & Head, Dept of Pulmonology Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Delhi Heart and Lung Institute Panchkuian road New Delhi. He was Awarded “Young Scientist Award” by National College Of Chest Physicians. He presented a paper “GERD in Bronchial Asthma & role of Omeprazole” at 38th annual conference of NCCP (I) at Udaipur, 1999. He is also a member of the advisory board of Medical Dialogues.