The hot, hazy days of summer are with us. Although most of us welcome summer, there are some occasional disadvantages, such as elevated humidex readings, high pollen counts and poor Air Quality.

When the weather heats up, outdoor triggers continue to change. Tree pollens diminish, grass pollens rise, and ragweed season is coming soon. Inhaled airborne allergens are everywhere, and when inhaled into your airways, they cause inflammatory reactions and asthma symptoms in susceptible individuals.

Smog can also trigger asthma symptoms, and it’s especially bad when combined with seasonal pollens. Weather plays a significant role in asthma symptoms as well. Thunderstorms bring barometric pressure changes, increased wind speed, rainfall and humidity, as well as lightning, all of which can aggravate asthma symptoms.

Chlorinated swimming pools can also adversely affect people with asthma who are sensitive to the irritant chemicals. Outdoor pools are less likely to cause symptoms because there is better ventilation.

What can you do to minimize the impact of these summertime triggers? To help you enjoy the best of summer and avoid or diminish the impact of outdoor air pollution, listen to Air Quality Index reports daily for Smog Alerts. For more information, see our Tip Sheet on Smog and explore our home, school, recreation centre, and workplace environments for tips on diminishing trigger exposure this summer.