As we turn the calendar page to September, one challenge looms: the arrival of “Asthma Peak Month,” with the third week being “Asthma Peak Week” where asthma triggers are at their highest of the year. This period marks a significant increase in asthma symptoms. Combined with the extra stress and exposures of children heading back to school, understanding why this peak and week happens can help you better prepare your child for the possibility of more asthma attacks.
Understanding Asthma Peak Week
Asthma peak week, typically the third week of September, marks a critical period when the number of asthma attacks spikes dramatically. Although it affects people of all ages, this phenomenon is particularly notable among children. The transition back into the classroom, for example, exposes kids to a variety of new allergens and irritants (plus viruses), which can trigger or worsen their asthma symptoms.
That’s because one of the primary reasons for asthma peak week is the rise in indoor allergens. Schools and homes often harbor dust mites and mold, which thrive in the warm, humid conditions of late summer and early fall. These microscopic allergens can become airborne and are easily inhaled. Additionally, the use of air conditioning and heating systems, which may have been dormant during the summer, can stir up accumulated dust and mold spores.
Here are some other reasons:
Outdoor Allergens
Outdoor allergens also play a significant role in asthma peak week. Ragweed, a common cause of fall allergies, reaches its peak pollen production in September. Among the most problematic outdoor allergen, ragweed pollen is particularly potent, making it a significant concern.
Weather Changes
Weather changes, including cooler temperatures, can irritate airways. As the weather transitions from the warmth of summer to the cooler air of fall, the change in temperature can cause the airways to become more sensitive and reactive. This sensitivity can be further heightened by dry air, which can strip the airways of their natural moisture, making them more prone to inflammation and spasms.
Back to School Stress
Stress from school routines can also contribute to higher asthma rates. The start of a new school year brings a range of stressors, from academic pressures to social adjustments. Stress can weaken the immune system and increase the body’s inflammatory response, making kids more susceptible to asthma triggers.
Other Common Triggers During Asthma Peak Week
During asthma peak week, environmental triggers can also set off symptoms, and one of the most significant is pollution. Airborne pollutants, such as particulate matter and ozone can irritate the airways and they’re often more concentrated during the fall, making it important for people with asthma to stay informed about air quality indicators — and take necessary precautions.
Another major trigger is cold air. As the temperature drops, the air becomes drier and cooler, which can cause the airways to constrict. This constriction can trigger asthma symptoms, making outdoor activities more challenging. It helps for kids to wear a scarf over the mouth and nose outside on chilly days, as this can help warm and humidify the air before it reaches the lungs.
Mold spores are another significant concern. These spores thrive in damp, cool conditions, which are common in the fall. When inhaled, mold spores can cause allergic reactions and make asthma symptoms worse. It’s important to keep indoor environments dry and well-ventilated. Regularly cleaning areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and basements, can help minimize exposure to mold spores.
Managing Symptoms: Tips and Strategies
By adopting a few strategies, you can navigate through asthma peak week with greater ease. One of the most effective ways is to monitor air quality. During this period, pollen counts can be high and staying indoors when quality is poor can significantly reduce your child’s exposure to allergy triggers. Use local weather and air quality apps to stay informed and plan your activities to minimize outdoor exposure on high-pollen days.
Using a peak flow meter daily is another step in managing asthma. This simple device measures how well lungs are functioning and can help you identify early signs of an asthma flare-up. By tracking your child’s peak flow readings, you can spot triggers and take preventive measures before symptoms become severe. It’s also a good idea to keep a log of your child’s readings alongside any noted triggers or symptoms, which can provide valuable insights for both you and your child’s pediatrician or specialist.
Keeping your child’s inhalers handy at all times is essential, as is adhering to a prescribed asthma action plan. The action plan should outline the steps to take when symptoms worsen, including when to use a rescue inhaler and when to seek medical attention. Make sure your child and their caregivers understand the plan.
If you plan to engage in outdoor activities during asthma peak week, consider pretreating with your child’s prescribed medications to manage fall allergies. Consult with your child’s doctor to determine the best pretreatment strategy. This proactive approach can make a big difference in your family’s ability to enjoy the outdoors while keeping your child’s asthma under control.
Fall Allergies and Their Impact on Asthma Peak Week
While we focus on asthma peak week, it’s important to consider the role that seasonal fall allergies play. As the leaves change and the air grows crisp, outdoor allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites significantly increase. For kids with asthma, this can lead to a heightened risk of potentially severe asthma attacks.
As the weather cools, people tend to spend more time indoors, which exposes them to a different set of allergens. Indoor environments can harbor pet dander and mold, both of which can trigger asthma symptoms. Air purifiers and HEPA filters can be highly effective. These devices help to reduce the concentration of airborne allergens, creating a more breathable environment.
Seeking Medical Help and Resources
If you find your child’s symptoms are overwhelming, or if new ones develop, it might be time to check with your child’s pediatrician, or consider seeing a specialist called a pulmonologist if your child’s asthma has progressed and you’ve never seen one. During asthma peak week, the increased seasonal allergies and other allergy triggers can make managing your child’s condition particularly challenging. A pulmonologist, a specialist in lung health, can offer personalized advice and treatment options tailored to kids’ specific needs.
In addition to medical professionals, organizations like Nemours provide specialized pediatric care and resources for asthma. Nemours can be an invaluable source of information and support, from diagnostic testing to ongoing care and education, ensuring that both you and your children are well-equipped to handle asthma peak week.
Online forums are also a great way to connect with other asthma sufferers and gain insights into managing asthma. Platforms like the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) afternoon chats focus specifically on the September asthma peak.
Ongoing Improvements for All Kids and Families
Nemours Children’s Pulmonology & Respiratory Research is collaborating on studies to better treat, monitor, and understand lung conditions like asthma in children. Remember, you don’t have to face this alone. By seeking professional help and utilizing available resources, you can better manage your child’s asthma and enjoy a healthier fall season.
