It's time to enjoy summer celebrations, but allergies and asthma can put a damper on the festivities. However, they don't need to. As you prepare for your summer barbecues, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) offers some tips for keeping your asthma and allergies in check.
"The 4th of July is a favorite holiday for many Americans because it's in the middle of summer and folks can enjoy lovely weather with their festivities," says allergist Dr. Mark Corbett, president of ACAAI. "But that doesn't mean allergy and asthma symptoms won't flare.
If you have asthma, you need to be cautious at events where smoke will be featured. Smoke in any form – from fireworks, bonfires, or campfires – should be on the list of things to bypass."
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How to avoid asthma and allergies this summer
Having your celebrations outdoors? Be extra cautious of grass or pollen allergies, and take your medicines well before the event, the ACAAI suggests. Those medications will need time to work. If you have asthma, stay consistent with both your quick-relief and long-term control meds.
Sudden changes in temperature can trigger an asthma attack, including going into an air-conditioned space from the heat or jumping into cold water.
In cases of extreme heat or humid, high pollen days, stay inside as much as possible, the ACAAI suggests. You might also consider indoor exercise, if possible.
Before you chow down on that delicious food at picnics and barbecues, make sure you are aware of your food allergies.
To be on the safe side, ask guests to label their dishes or consider leaving out common allergens. If you are hosting your own potluck, label any food you're sharing, so others can be aware of allergens.
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Lone Star Tick bites can make you allergic to red meats. If you suspect this has happened to you, talk to an allergist. Meat from any mammal — beef, lamb, pork, goat, and even whale and seal — can also cause an allergic reaction.
If swimming is in your summer plans, pay attention to how chlorine affects you.
While chlorine isn't an allergen, it can be irritating, causing eye and nose itching.
It can also cause some people with asthma to have trouble breathing.
Washing the affected skin area with clean water typically removes the irritant. A doctor can prescribe a corticosteroid cream if needed.
