Carry your inhaler

Pollen and pollution levels are set to rise across the UK, meaning people with asthma may find their symptoms get worse which can significantly increase their risk of a potentially fatal asthma attack.

People living in urban areas need to take special care as they are at risk of what is being referred to as ‘grey fever’. This is when pollen particles combine with pollution - particularly common during periods of warm weather.

Asthma UK is encouraging people with asthma to check pollen and air pollution forecasts in their area, make sure they carry their inhaler, and know what to do if their symptoms get worse. Over 80% of people with asthma in the UK also have hay fever, so it’s important that people affected use a steroid nasal spray every day together with non-drowsy antihistamine tablets as needed.

People can call one of Asthma UK’s expert Helpline nurses on 0300 222 5800 for more information or advice on managing their asthma. Sign up to the free email newsletter at www.asthma.org.uk/sign-up to receive health advice and to find out more about Asthma UK’s campaigns.

If someone has an asthma attack and a reliever inhaler does not seem to be helping, they should always call 999.

Dr Samantha Walker,

Director of Research and Policy Asthma UK