Asthmatics have been told to be on the look-out for the next few weeks as thunderstorm-induced asthma attacks become more likely.
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Murrumbidgee Local Health District have sent an alert across the area, noting that forecasted thunderstorms can put many at risk. Even people that don't regularly suffer from asthma can be at risk of an attack from the amount of pollen in the air.
Tracey Oakman, the director of the public health unit, said that people should be prepared for any sudden attacks.
"People should be prepared, not alarmed, and anyone with diagnosed asthma should carry their asthma medication with them at all times during this high risk period," Mrs Oakman said.
"Where possible avoid being outside during thunderstorms over the next four weeks. Parents should be vigilant to keep their children inside during storms, with the doors and windows closed."
Michele Goldman is the CEO of Asthma Australia and said that thunderstorm asthma was very prevalent in the Riverina.
"Especially in the Riverina, thunderstorm asthma has been a problem for quite some time. In late October and November, it's peak storm season so depending on conditions preceding this time of year and the weather, it can all impact on just how significant it can be," she explained.
"Every year, the hospital in Wagga puts on extra resources in anticipation of it."
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She explained that thunderstorm conditions lead to smaller than usual pollen particles that don't get caught in the mouth and nose like usual.
"The storm conditions cause the pollen particles to become moist and the wind ruptures them so they become much smaller ... They can travel down into our lungs so it's not just people with asthma, anyone who gets hay fever should also be on alert," Ms Goldman said.
To help address the increased likelihood of asthma attacks, Charles Sturt University has set up a text alert system for times with increased pollen counts and thunderstorm predictions. That alert is available at the CSU science department's website.
If you do experience symptoms, Ms Goldman said to use reliever medication immediately and seek emergency care if symptoms persist.
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