With the onset of autumn and cooler weather, many parents find that their child’s asthma will start to flare up. Being aware of the following triggers will help you to manage asthma during the autumn months.

-          80% of attacks in children are triggered by the common cold virus. Starting your child’s preventer early before the colds and flus start spreading is the smart way to go, as preventers take from 4 – 6 weeks to be 100% effective.  

-          Thunderstorms and winter rainfall can cause an increase in hay fever and allergic asthma due to the release of grass pollen grains. “Thunderstorm asthma” is now understood to cause a spike in asthma presentations to hospital  – both for children with known asthma, and those with just hay fever and allergies. Be vigilant in monitoring your child for symptoms during and after storms.   

-          Moulds found in gardens, freshly dug earth, damp floors, walls, carpets and air conditioners produce millions of spores that become easily airborne, and can trigger asthma. Air your house as much as possible, take pot plants outside, and remove any signs of visible mould.  

-          Autumn also sees an increase in home heating. Avoid smoke from fireplaces and wood stoves as these can trigger asthma symptoms. Gas fireplaces should be flued, and should be checked and serviced regularly to prevent gas leaks. The dry, heated air inside the home can cause the airways to constrict. Keeping a bowl of water near your heater will help to replace some of the moisture in the air and make the airways more comfortable.

Like any other time it is vitally important for students to carry their reliever medication with them at all times. An increase in asthma symptoms during exercise or increased use of reliever noted at school in autumn, is a strong indication that your child’s asthma should be reviewed with their GP.