This post was written by Heather Willison, MSN, FNP-C, PPG Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

I enjoy a beautiful sunny day just like anyone else, but the recent high temperatures have felt downright uncomfortable. Unfortunately, these heat waves can be even more troublesome for those with asthma, as heat can trigger breathing difficulties.

Heat and humidity tend to go hand-in-hand, making the air heavier and more difficult to breathe. Also, the heat causes body temperature to rise, and before long, youre sweating. When you sweat, you are at risk of becoming dehydrated, which in turn causes you to breathe faster, triggering asthma symptoms. Again, the airways narrow, resulting in coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath.

Considering we are at the start of summer, Im certain that we have many more hot days ahead of us this season. Here are some tips to help asthma patients beat the heat:

Work with your provider and make a plan so that you can enjoy the fleeting months of summer as much as possible.

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Managing asthma in the summer heat - Parkview Health