Is Outdoor Air Pollution Worsening My Asthma?

Research shows that air pollution can intensify existing asthma, and people who live in areas with higher levels of air pollution are likely to develop asthma symptoms. Asthma is a chronic lung disease that makes breathing difficult. Its symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Pollution tends to both - trigger existing asthma symptoms and make them severe.

Air Pollution and Asthma

Evidence suggests that respiratory disorders like bronchial asthma have become widespread in recent years. High levels of air pollution can cause health complications like cardiovascular and respiratory disorders, strain on the heart and lungs, and damaged lung cells.

At very high concentrations, air pollution can irritate the airways of the lungs, which can result in breathing difficulties even in people who do not suffer from asthma. It can also cause other conditions like coughing, chest discomfort, and burning sensation in the lungs. Lower concentrations of air pollution can still cause complications for people with asthma.

Long-term exposure to pollution can affect your airway, stoke existing irritation, and result in loss of lung capacity. It may also lead to deteriorated lung function. Some pollution particles are small enough to enter right into your lungs and trigger asthma symptoms. Prolonged exposure to pollution may also lead to a type of lung hypersensitivity that can give rise to acute asthma.

How to Manage Asthma Triggered by Air Pollution

1. Plan exercise and activities where pollution levels are lower
   

   Studies show that the advantage of frequent exercise outweighs the risks linked with exposure to pollution. By adjusting when and where you exercise, you can lead a healthy lifestyle and help reduce your exposure to polluted air. In the summers, schedule your most vigorous activities for the morning. It’s best to exercise away from busy roads, and industrial areas. On smoggy and hot days, when ozone levels are higher, consider options for exercising indoors.

2. Change your activity level and consider exercising indoors
   

   Alter your routine with occasional indoor activities, especially on days that show poor air quality. When the air is polluted, try to exercise indoors instead of any outdoor activities as this will reduce the amount of polluted air you inhale. Air pollution levels tend to be highest around midday or in the afternoon, try to avoid being outdoors during these times. Even if you can’t change your schedule, you might be able to change your activity, to make it less intense, or, spend less time on the activity. For example, go for a walk instead of a jog, exercise for 20 minutes instead of 30.

3. Keep your quick-relief medication at hand when outdoors
   

   The air may appear clear, but that doesn’t mean it’s pollution-free. By keeping medication handy, even if you do have symptoms, you are likely prepared. This is crucial if you have a respiratory disorder and are starting a new activity that is more intense.

4. Monitor air pollution levels
   

   This can be done if you have any kind of respiratory disorder. Set up your weather app to provide you with air pollution alerts. Several websites also provide information about air quality from credible sources. Check local air quality forecasts over the radio, and news stations.

5. Consult your doctor
   

   Contact your doctor for medical help if you have intense asthma symptoms when the air is polluted. Make note of your asthma triggers. If you plan on exercising more than usual, discuss this with your doctor, and ask whether you should use medication before you start.

References:

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/262051452_Outdoor_Air_Pollution_and_Asthma

https://www.asthma.org.uk/advice/triggers/pollution/

https://erj.ersjournals.com/content/20/3/763

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4465283/

https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/10.1513/AnnalsATS.202001-046ST

https://www.aaaai.org/Tools-for-the-Public/Conditions-Library/Asthma/Your-Questions-Answered-on-Air-Pollution-and-Asthm

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