Summer heat, haze, smog, and humidity can make summer uncomfortable for anyone with breathing problems, regardless of their age. Those with heart or lung problems, allergies, and asthma are particularly at risk.
Rita Edwards, respiratory therapist at Paoli Hospital, has tips for those with breathing problems to reduce their symptoms and enjoy summer weather.
- Check the air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a part of most weather reports, and measures air pollutants that can cause sneezing. AQI is measured from zero to 500, and although an index of up to 50 is optimal, anything up to 100 should be safe. For any days when the AQI is over 100, it’s best to spend time inside.
- Avoid the heat. The hottest times of the day are between 11 AM and 3 PM. If you notice that the heat affects your breathing, try to get any outdoor activities done later at night. You can also try outdoor activities in the morning, but pollen counts tend to be higher then.
- Stay hydrated. Drink lots of cold water to help keep your temperature down.
- Exercise indoors. Exercising outdoors can make it even harder to breathe than usual. Instead, exercise indoors at the gym or in another air-conditioned setting. If you absolutely want to be outside, go swimming and take frequent breaks, or go for a walk during evening hours.
- Take frequent showers. After you come inside from being outdoors, take a shower and change your clothes to remove pollen and pollutants from your clothes, body, and hair. If you have allergies, this can help reduce your symptoms.
- Use sunscreen. It’s important for everyone to wear sunscreen in the sun, but especially those with breathing problems. Sunburn can raise your internal body temperature and make it harder to cool down.
- Take your medication. If you have been given prescription medications to help with breathing problems, make sure you’re taking them. This will help control your symptoms.
While the weather is out of our control, taking these steps to prepare yourself for different weather conditions can go far in helping you breathe easy.
- See related stories: Staying Ahead of Spring Allergies