11 Oct Thunderstorm Asthma season is here!

Typically running from the start of October until the end of December, grass pollen season brings a seasonal increase in asthma and hay fever – and the chance of epidemic thunderstorm asthma.

Thunderstorm asthma events are thought to be triggered by an unusual mix of high levels of grass pollen and a certain type of thunderstorm. During these storms tiny pollen grains from grasses can be swept up in the wind and carried long distances.  When exposed to this air, the tiny particles of pollen are inhaled deep into your lungs, triggering an asthma flare-up or attack.

You might have a higher chance of a sudden asthma flare-up triggered by a thunderstorm if you have:

• seasonal hay fever
• current asthma
• a history of asthma
• undiagnosed asthma.

From 1 October, VicEmergency (www.emergency.vic.gov.au/respond/) will be issuing Epidemic Thunderstorm Asthma Risk Forecasts – a three day forecast that is updated daily. We are asking those in the community who are at risk to check this everyday online or through the app, so they can be better prepared. You can also follow the Melbourne pollen count and forecast by visiting Home – Melbourne Pollen (www.melbournepollen.com.au)

To reduce the risk of thunderstorm asthma when it is a known trigger, it is best to have good asthma management year-round and to update or create an asthma action plan (Please see the National Asthma Council Australia Asthma Action plan attached to this post) or hay fever treatment plan to prepare for the season.

For assistance with your asthma action plan, please contact Timboon Clinic on 5558 6088.

Practice Hours

Monday to Friday : 8.30 am to 5.30pm

Saturday Mornings: 9.30am to 11.30am

(Emergency appointments only)