As Djilba (August to September) brings a changing mix of cold, clear days and warm, rainy bursts, it signals the start of hay fever season for many Western Australians.
While the warmer weather and blooming flowers are welcome signs of spring, they can also bring extra challenges for people living with asthma.
Did you know?
Pollen from flowering plants and grass can trigger allergic reactions and worsen asthma symptoms. Pollen is the microscopic grains produced by the male parts of the plant when it flowers and contains proteins that the immune system of sensitive individuals mistakenly identifies as harmful. This triggers an allergic reaction, releasing chemicals like histamine that cause inflammation in the nose, eyes, and airways.
Sudden weather changes, including temperature shifts and increased humidity, can also spark asthma flare-ups irritating sensitive lining of the airways. Cold air can cause airways to tighten (bronchoconstriction), while humid or damp conditions can increase exposure to mould spores and other allergens.
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and asthma are both caused by similar allergic mechanisms involving an overactive immune response to airborne allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. The inflammation that affects the nose in hay fever can also extend to the lower airways in asthma, causing symptoms in both areas. This overlap is why around one-third of people with asthma also experience hay fever symptoms, making coordinated management essential.
If you or someone you care for has asthma or COPD, here are some tips to help you breathe easier this season:
- Take your preventer medication daily to reduce airway inflammation and prevent symptoms.
- Keep your reliever inhaler handy for quick relief if symptoms arise.
- Review your Asthma Action Plan so you know what steps to take if symptoms change.
- Avoid outdoor activities on high pollen days when possible — check local pollen forecasts such as the Perth Pollen Count to plan ahead.
- Seek support promptly if your symptoms worsen or don’t improve with your usual treatment.
Interested in monitoring tree pollen count?
Researchers from Edith Cowan University (ECU) have developed a tool to visualise allergenic trees in four of Australia’s major cities, which could help alleviate the symptoms of people living with pollen allergies or hay fever. Find out more here.
Access the Australian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy Pollen Calendar here.
