Rye-grass pollen is a major trigger for asthma and hay fever, with high levels of this allergen contributing to the thunderstorm asthma epidemic.
The 2016 thunderstorm asthma event saw over 3500 people seek emergency care for repository distress, and resulted in 10 asthma-related deaths.
Of those presenting with thunderstorm asthma, hay fever was present in the vast majority at 87 per cent, while asthma was previously known to be present in only 28 per cent.
Asthma Australia spokesperson Professor Jo Douglass said the event revealed that many people who believed they only experienced hay fever actually had asthma.
“We reviewed those who had presented to hospital with thunderstorm asthma. Evidence revealed that one third of people who described only having hay fever symptoms before going to hospital with thunderstorm asthma, actually experienced asthma symptoms but did not recognise them,” she said.
“It’s important to recognise hay fever symptoms associated with asthma, like night waking and morning wheezing, and to see a doctor for an asthma review. People with undiagnosed asthma need to receive a formal diagnosis so they can begin to manage their condition.”
Rye-grass pollen season runs from August to December in Victoria, with November being a particularly high-risk period for thunderstorm asthma events.
To reduce the risk of thunderstorm asthma, people with asthma are advised to maintain good year-round management of their condition.
This includes an annual asthma review with their GP and keeping their Asthma Action Plan up-to-date. They should also use their preventer inhaler, manage hay fever symptoms and maintain an adequate supply of necessary medications.
Hay fever and asthma sufferers in Victoria can check pollen levels through the VicEmergency app or website and should avoid going outside on high pollen days or during thunderstorms.
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