The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) and the nation's allergists warn people with asthma to beware of both springtime blooms and thunderstorms which can trigger symptoms.
Studies show an increase in asthma-related emergency room visits after a thunderstorm. And while no one knows the exact reason, the rupture of pollen grains due to the storm and the wind spreading these grains are thought to be culprits. This unusually stormy spring combined with this year's increased pollen counts has much of the country experiencing their worst allergy season ever.
To help people find out if they are at risk for asthma or if their disease is under control, the ACAAI is offering its Nationwide Asthma Screening Program this spring More than 200 free asthma screenings will take place across the country in public locations. Find a screening near you at www.AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org.
Allergist Dr. John Winder, chair of the Nationwide Asthma Screening Program, is available to discuss the role of the weather in asthma symptoms and the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment.