Summer is an exciting time with longer days, warmer weather and more time spent outside. However, for individuals living with a lung condition, the season brings about its own set of unique challenges. Higher temperatures, increased humidity, and poor air quality can worsen symptoms and impact your quality of life.
If you are affected by the hot weather, here are some tips to help you stay well this summer.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is essential. This will stop you from becoming dehydrated which can worsen your lung condition symptoms. Avoid drinks that increase dehydration such as alcohol, caffeinated tea and coffee. Foods such as fruit and salads have a high-water content, so can help to keep you hydrated.
Check your medications
Some medications can make you more susceptible to the sunlight. Check with your medical team or your pharmacist about possible side effects.
Avoid the smoke and haze from fires
Where possible, people with poor lung health in areas affected by bush fires and smoke, should stay indoors when smoke is thick. Keep windows and doors closed and use air conditioning on the recycle mode.
Exercise sensibly
Exercise has a lot of benefits if you are living with a lung condition. It’s important to be mindful during summer to avoid overheating, which can bring about breathlessness. Exercise indoors or in well-ventilated spaces. Conduct your chores such as gardening or household jobs in the morning or evening when temperatures are lower.
Use a fan
If you experience breathlessness, try using a handheld fan. Hold it approximately 15cm away from your face and let the cold air blow towards the centre of your face. Keep your fan clean so you don’t blow dust or germs into your lungs. A floor stand or desktop fan can also help.
Monitor air quality
Poor air quality, worsened by factors like wildfires and pollution, poses significant risks for lung health. Monitoring weather apps can help to minimise your exposure. When air quality is poor, try to stay indoors, use an air purifier at home and wear a face mask when you do have to go outside. These tips can help you to avoid flare-ups.
Lung Foundation Australia’s Information and Support Centre team can connect you with information and services to help you to live well with a lung condition. Book a call with the team via free call 1800 654 301 or visit https://lungfoundation.com.au/contact/.
