Asthma and Allergy

Asthma can be triggered by exposure to allergens, infections, exercise, cold air, changes in temperature and smoke. When people have an asthma attack (flare-up), their airways become narrow, which obstructs the flow of air in and out of the lungs, which can be reversed using reliever medications. Most people with asthma can lead normal, active lives if they take regular preventer medications for asthma and allergic rhinitis (hay fever), to prevent their symptoms and minimise exposure to confirmed allergens and triggers, where possible.

Thunderstorm asthma affects some people with asthma and/or alllergic rhinitis (hay fever) when pollen granules come into contact with water, causing starch granules to be released that are small enough to be breathed into the airways.