Autumn: The Peak Season for Asthma Attacks

December 16, 2023

Why is autumn the peak season for asthma? Autumn is a season with frequent cold air activity. Every time cold air passes through, there are obvious changes in temperature, air pressure, precipitation, and air humidity. The decrease in temperature directly triggers asthma.

Asthma attacks have long been believed to be closely related to meteorological factors. Clinical statistics show that weather changes account for more than three-quarters of the causes of asthma attacks, followed by fatigue, allergies, and improper diet.

According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, the root cause of asthma is "phlegm and dampness accumulated internally, with adhesion that cannot be eliminated." Once the climate changes or catches a cold, or gets wet in the rain and dew, the "phlegm" becomes a new pathogen and triggers the disease. Modern medical research also suggests that bronchial asthma is mostly caused by colds or rhinitis, both of which are directly related to cold air activity.

Autumn also has two types of weather that can trigger asthma:

Firstly, in early autumn, the incidence of asthma is higher a few hours before thunderstorms or typhoons land. Psychological therapists analyze that apart from the weather, the more important reason may be psychological─patients feel uneasy or even fearful about the upcoming storms and heavy rain.

Secondly, in late autumn, when the weather is controlled by high pressure, the number of asthma patients increases. Meteorological medical experts believe that this may be due to the occurrence of an inversion layer (i.e., the temperature increases with height) in the near-surface layer, and certain "allergens" that can trigger asthma appear on the ground, leading to asthma attacks.

Of course, the occurrence of the above two causes is relatively low compared to the direct and greater impact of cold air activity on asthma.

How should asthma patients prevent it in autumn? Pay attention to strengthening cold resistance exercises, improving physical fitness, improving cardiopulmonary function, and enhancing the body's immune system. At the same time, keep track of meteorological information. When cold air passes through, take preventive measures in advance and be prepared. In late autumn, increase clothing in a timely manner to avoid catching a cold. It is best to wear a mask when going out in the morning and evening to reduce direct stimulation from cold air.

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