How Pollution Affects Asthma

Asthma is a medical condition related to the narrowing of the airways from a trigger. There are roughly 5.4 million people suffering with asthma within the UK and sadly three people die from the condition on a daily basis.

Air pollution is harmful to everyone but can be a particular nuisance to asthma sufferers. The harmful chemicals & toxins can trigger an asthma attack which can be life threatening.

Hot Spots

Main Roads

The levels of chemicals and toxins are highest on busy main roads. The biggest culprit is diesel vehicles which make up a large proportion of traffic. Large amounts of traffic also create particulates from tyre wear and the buildup of dust.

Bonfires and barbeques

Generally the smoke from any type of fire can make asthma symptoms worse. Bonfires themselves can create a smog like effect which irritates the airways and may bring on an asthma attack.

Airports

Aeroplanes are some of the biggest culprits of air pollution with their large diesel engines. People living near airports have been reported to have more respiratory conditions which in turn is worst for asthma sufferers.

Times of Day

Air pollution is complicated and can be affected by a variety of variables. Look out for certain times of day when levels may be higher:

• Morning & evening rush hours - this is a bad time due to the large number of vehicles around

• Cold & foggy days - air gets trapped on foggy days. This is a bad recipe when pollution levels are high as there is no where for the air to escape

• Afternoons & evenings - due to the buildup of pollution levels throughout the day and made worse with the evening rush hour

• Hot & sunny days - the sun reacts with the chemicals creating a smog. Little wind can add to the problem

Preventative Measures

Sadly we cannot necessarily stop the effects of air pollution but governments are doing their best to limit the levels within our towns and cities. There are a few tips and tricks which can make a difference:

• Check out the DEFRA 5 day UK pollution forecast. Asthma sufferers can use this forecast to plan their activities.

• Carry reliever medication at all times in case of an attack.

• Avoid travelling in the morning and evening rush hours where possible.

• When exercising try to avoid busy main roads which worsens symptoms

• Keep car windows closed - particularly when sat in traffic

• Keep house / flat windows closed and monitor the pollution forecast

If you see someone in public struggling for breath and possibly unable to speak then keep the following in mind:

• Get them away from the smog and area of pollution if possible

• Assist them with their reliever inhaler where possible

• If there is no improvement after the medication or if they don't have an inhaler call the emergency services.