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Important health advice to anyone using an inhaler this week

The NHS has issued important advice to anyone prescribed an inhaler this week, as people affected may find that they might need to use it more often in the next week

[Woman in light grey top and long brown hair using asthma inhaler]

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People who use inhalers have been issued with important advice from the NHS (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)

Following the record-breaking heatwave that witnessed temperatures reaching up to 35C across parts of the UK, the weather has now shifted to wet and rainy conditions, with the possibility of thunderstorms in some areas.

Temperatures climbed across the country, with 35.1C recorded at Kew Gardens in west London and 32.9C at Cardiff's Bute Park on Tuesday. On Sunday (May 31), Bushy Park in Richmond upon Thames registered the highest temperature of the day at 24.7C, according to the Met Office. However, Monday (June 1) brought a dramatic change, as heavy rainfall swept across the nation, particularly affecting parts of Wales, with forecasters predicting continued thunderstorms and cooler conditions.

In light of this weather shift, the NHS has issued crucial advice for anyone who has been prescribed an inhaler, emphasising the importance of carrying it at all times.

"If you have been prescribed an inhaler, carry it with you during periods of thundery weather," the text on the NHS's Instagram post advised.

The post's caption further stated: "Thunderstorm can trigger symptoms for those with lung conditions, like asthma. If the weather makes your symptoms worse and you need to use your inhaler more, talk to your pharmacist, contact your GP or NHS 111."

Asthma is a common condition affecting approximately 7.2 million people across the UK - roughly eight in every 100 individuals, according to Asthma + Lung UK. A recent survey conducted by the charity revealed that seven in 10 respondents reported weather changes as a trigger for their asthma symptoms.

Why do people using inhalers need to be careful during thunderstorms?

While heatwaves are often followed by severe thunderstorms, this weather pattern presents particular risks for individuals with certain health conditions, including asthma.

Asthma + Lung UK explains that thunderstorms can provoke asthma attacks and exacerbate symptoms such as breathlessness, wheezing and coughing - a phenomenon sometimes referred to as thunderstorm asthma.

Thunderstorm asthma is uncommon and doesn't impact everyone with the condition. The charity notes that certain groups face higher risk: those with both asthma and hay fever, individuals with poorly managed asthma, or people with undiagnosed asthma. Research also suggests that younger adults under 30 are particularly susceptible to thunderstorm asthma.

For those who experience thunderstorm asthma, protective measures are available. The NHS advises always keeping your inhaler close at hand during thunderstorms.

Asthma + Lung UK further recommends maintaining good asthma management practices and remaining indoors with windows shut before, during and after thunderstorms. "If you have to go outside, wear a mask to protect yourself against pollen grains," they added. They also advise taking hay fever medication as an additional safeguard against pollen for those who suffer from the condition.

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