Asthma is a long-term respiratory condition where the person’s airways can become inflamed and narrow, producing excess mucus and making breathing difficult.

“Weather conditions can bring on asthma symptoms, and depending on the person’s individual triggers, their symptoms can worsen at certain times of the year.” says pharmacist Joseph Ndou of Medipost Pharmacy. For some – cold, dry air can provoke symptoms, while hot, humid, windy or wet conditions can also trigger an asthma attack,explains Ndou.

During an asthma attack, the airways in the lungs suddenly narrow, cutting off the vital oxygen supply. The person struggles to breathe, and in severe cases, may collapse.

“People with asthma are, unfortunately, also at higher risk of seasonal respiratory illnesses. A viral cold or influenza can worsen asthma symptoms for up to six weeks after the illness. It is therefore important to take extra care if you or your child has asthma,” Ndou says. 

While asthma typically develops before the age of five years old, for some it emerges in adulthood. Ndou advises anyone experiencing these symptoms to consult their doctor or clinic:

• Coughing is often worse at night and during activity. The persistent cough may be either dry or wet, with extra mucus.
• Wheezing, a whistling sound from the chest.
• Tightness of the chest with difficulty breathing.
• Shortness of breath, especially after exercise or activity.

“Anyone can develop asthma. With consistent treatment, asthma can become more manageable, as medication can help the lungs and airways function as normally as possible, with fewer symptoms and as little disruption to ordinary life as possible. Doctors may prescribe medication, either oral medication or inhalers, or a combination of both,” he says.

Childhood asthma usually persists into adulthood, and it tends to run in families, as do related allergic conditions such as hay fever and eczema.

“Asthma cannot yet be cured, but to a large extent it can be kept under control with close adherence to your treatment plan, regular check-ins with your doctor and pharmacy team, and a few precautions. Usually, people with asthma will be able to live normal lives, enjoying full involvement in sport and all other activities,” Ndou says.

Top winter health tips for people with asthma:

• Take your asthma medications exactly as prescribed, without missing any doses
• Always keep an inhaler nearby
• Try to identify your triggers, such as certain foods and drinks or specific environments, so you can avoid them
• Have regular check-ups with your doctor or at your clinic
• Protect yourself with the influenza vaccine, ideally early in the season
• Boost your immune system with a wholesome diet, exercise and nutritional supplements if needed
• Wear a facemask around people with flu
• Keep warm and avoid outdoor activities in weather linked to your triggers

Pharmacist’s warning

“Discuss any new medication or medical conditions with your doctor or pharmacy team, and read the package leaflet, as there are contraindications to consider with asthma medications. For example, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antihypertensives should not be used with some asthma medications unless the potential for interactions has been checked,” Ndou warns.

Register with Medipost Pharmacy for direct phone access to the pharmacy team to discuss any questions about prescribed or self-care medication, available in all official South African languages. Easily manage your medication by sending a WhatsApp message to 012 426 4655 to register for medication dispensing, arrange for free courier delivery, and redirect deliveries to your holiday destination if needed.

“It may take time to identify all your triggers and understand how seasonal changes may affect you, but it is possible to live life to the fullest when your asthma and any related conditions are well controlled,” Ndou concludes.