Your guide to managing asthma in hot weather: 7 tops tips – from Church Pharmacy

When the sun’s out and the temperatures soar, most of us are reaching for the sun cream and heading outside. But for people living with asthma, hot weather can trigger symptoms or even cause flare-ups.

Changes in temperature, pollen levels, and air pollution can all impact your breathing—so it’s important to take steps to stay safe, especially during the summer months.

Here’s everything you need to know about managing asthma in the heat.

Why Can Hot Weather Worsen Asthma?

Heat can irritate the airways and cause them to narrow, making it harder to breathe. In addition, high humidity can make the air feel heavier and harder to inhale. Common summer asthma triggers include:

• Warm, stagnant air
• High pollen counts
• Air pollution and smog
• Dehydration
• Physical activity in the heat

7 Tips on Managing Asthma in Hot Weather

1. Always Carry Your Inhaler

Your reliever inhaler (usually blue) should be with you at all times—especially when you’re outdoors or travelling. Make sure it’s not expired and stored below 30°C to keep it effective.

2. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can thicken the mucus in your airways and make asthma symptoms worse. Drink water regularly, even if you’re not feeling thirsty.

3. Avoid Peak Heat Hours

Try to stay indoors between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest. If you’re exercising, do it early in the morning or later in the evening when the air is cooler.

4. Monitor the Air Quality

Use apps or websites that track pollen counts and air pollution levels. On high-risk days, keep windows closed and consider using an air purifier indoors.

5. Use a Spacer with Your Inhaler

A spacer helps deliver the medication more effectively to your lungs—especially helpful if your breathing is more restricted than usual in warm weather.

6. Take Preventer Medication as Prescribed

Don’t skip your preventer inhaler (usually brown or orange), even if you’re feeling fine. It builds protection in your airways over time and reduces the chances of flare-ups.

7. Have an Asthma Action Plan

If you don’t already have one, now is the time. It should include:

• How to recognise when your asthma is getting worse
• When to take extra medication
• When to seek emergency help

Ask your GP or speak to a trained pharmacist—we can help you create one.

When to Get Help

See a medical professional if you experience:

• Increased use of your reliever inhaler
• Coughing or wheezing that doesn’t improve with treatment
• Chest tightness or shortness of breath that worsens in the heat

Church Pharmacy can advise on medication usage, inhaler techniques, and general asthma care. We’re here to help you manage your condition with confidence this summer.

Breathe Easy with Church Pharmacy

Pop in for a quick asthma medication check or personalised advice from our friendly team.

📍 Visit us or book online at: staging.churchpharmacyclinic.co.uk/

Your health. Our priority. Every season.