The September Asthma Spike.
Every year, during the third week of September, we see an increase in hospital visits and visits to healthcare practitioners due to asthma exacerbations in school aged children. This is known as the September Spike. This year, that week falls on September 17th to 23rd. The focus is primarily on children but it can affect adults too. First we see a spike in school aged children, then preschoolers, and then a spike in adults with asthma.
There are a few reasons for this sudden increase in Asthma exacerbations. September brings us a change in season and with that, we see an increase in indoor and outdoor moulds, as well as seasonal pollen. People are heading back to work after summer vacations which increases our close contact with others, thereby increasing our chances of getting colds and the flu.
Follow these helpful tips to keep your asthma under control, and to reduce your risk of having an exacerbation this September.
Follow your written Asthma Action Plan. Be sure to take your regular medications as listed in the green zone, even as your daily routine changes. If you don’t have a written Asthma Action Plan, you can schedule a visit at our Poplar Clinic to have one developed, visit your local Respiratory Therapist, Pharmacist, Nurse Practitioner, or Family Physician. For more information about Action Plans, visit Asthma Canada.
Keep your fast-acting reliever medication handy. Carry it with you to work and on outings so that you can keep symptoms under control quickly. Check the expiry date, keep track of doses, and renew the prescription if needed.
Know your triggers and avoid them. Keep bathrooms and kitchens mould free by cleaning regularly. Keep humidity low through the use of exhaust fans. Wear a mask when outdoors, and use a HEPA filter on air conditioners, fans and furnaces, if pollen is your trigger. Transitioning to spending more time indoors can increase exposure to dust mites. A thorough fall cleaning is always a good idea!
Avoid infections by washing your hands regularly and before eating. Good hand hygiene goes a long way to staying healthy. Let’s make it a habit!
Get the flu shot every year. Stay on top of your vaccinations, including the seasonal flu and COVID-19 updates.
Wear a mask in crowds and in tight quarters. This has been shown to reduce transmission of respiratory infections.
Encourage others in your household to follow healthy hygiene tips as well. Reducing exposure is a group effort, so get others on board with your plan!
Resources and Helpful Links