Hay fever & pollen & thunderstorms

[SueWhite73]

Hi I’ve been reading lots about asthmatics experiencing increased difficulty during thunderstorms and suggested link to increased pollen. Can anyone recommend some reading where I could find out more? Also are there any Apps to track pollen levels that I could use?

Many thanks 😃

[twinkly29]

I use the Met Office weather app which has pollen on it for whichever places you look up or have saved.

I don't think thunderstorms actually increase the pollen, but can make it into smaller particles so they get further into the lungs and so can cause more problems. Often this isn't a big issue but because the pollen count is already really high, or has been, due to peak of grass pollen season and the fact that this year's levels have been really high generally, thunderstorms on top could be problematic.

Usually from the end of the June the grass pollen levels gradually subside....fingers crossed!

[SueWhite73 in reply to twinkly29]

Thanks that’s helpful. I’ll have a look at the Met Office App 👍

[twinkly29 in reply to SueWhite73]

I can't guarantee it's always accurate although the weather is usually for here whereas the BBC for example is absolutely not. It also changes the pollen as the forecast changes so does seem to relate somehow.

[AirIsUnderrated]

My understanding is that rain or the increased air pressure before rain causes the pollen to explode into much smaller particles. That’s why sensitive people suffer even more once the rain has started than when it’s dry and windy, which logically ought to be worse.

[SueWhite73 in reply to AirIsUnderrated]

Thanks. That does make sense. I usually take my anti-histamine early evening as that’s when my cough usually starts but might try it a little earlier, certainly whilst the weather is rainy & very windy 😃

[Nutzs47 in reply to AirIsUnderrated]

Yep mine is often worse after a heavy rain storm but I just thought it was because it dampens it down then rather than washing it away then sends it back into the air 🤣

[54321pugs]

Met Office weather app I use to help me know what hay meds I need to take

[RileyK0508]

Hi SueWhite73!

I have a bit of dust and pollen allergy, and I use Climacell to monitor the pollen spread in my area when I go out. Maybe it can help you too.