How Allergy Sufferers Can Prepare For Thunder Fever

Thunder fever is a combination of thunderstorms and a high pollen count, which can cause extreme hay fever symptoms. Added to this is a warning to those with asthma who are particularly affected by these conditions and thunder fever can even prove fatal.

As pollen triggers asthma problems in around 3.3 million people in the UK, there is potential that the possible forthcoming thunderstorms and high pollen could trigger thunder fever asthma attacks and could be life-threatening.

But Thunder Fever isn't just isolated to the UK. It can have a major effect on allergy sufferers anywhere in the world. Last year, nine people died in Australia as a result of thunder fever, when thunderstorms and high pollen counts created dangerous conditions for allergy and asthma sufferers.

How Does Thunder Fever Work?

The reasons thunderstorms are so dangerous is because of the conditions they create. Humid and stormy conditions break down pollen into smaller particles. When people breathe in, the pollen can, therefore, be inhaled more deeply into the lungs. This may then trigger intense asthma attacks that could be fatal.

It is important to stress that it is usually only fatal in rare cases, but it is essential that allergy and asthma sufferers protect themselves during these conditions to minimise the risk of dangerous asthma attacks.

How to Prepare for Thunder Fever

1. Keep windows closed – keep doors and windows closed at home and car windows shut
2. Install a pollen filter in your vehicle
3. Wear sunglasses to prevent pollen getting into your eyes
4. Don't dry your clothes outside. If you do, make sure to shake them thoroughly before bringing them into your home.
5. Brush pets when they come in from outside
6. Vacuum your home regularly
7. Shower if you go outside
8. Avoid fresh flowers
9. Avoid smoky conditions indoors
10. Make sure you have access to what you need in the event of an asthma attack.

Need to see someone? You can search Sanitas allergists and immunologists by area to find an allergy specialist near you.