Asthma Australia urges vigilance as ryegrass pollen peaks
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As the ryegrass pollen season peaks in Victoria, Asthma Australia is emphasising the importance of preparedness for individuals suffering from hay fever. The organisation warns that current pollen levels could trigger severe respiratory issues, particularly during thunderstorms, a phenomenon known as Thunderstorm Asthma (TSA).
The state experienced a devastating TSA epidemic in November 2016, when over 3,500 people sought emergency care due to respiratory distress, resulting in ten fatalities. Experts identified that high levels of ryegrass pollen were a significant factor contributing to this event. Rain and humidity during the thunderstorm ruptured the pollen grains, allowing them to be inhaled.
Asthma Australia highlights that the majority of those affected during the 2016 TSA event, 87%, had hay fever, while only 28% had a known asthma diagnosis. This raises concerns about individuals who may have asthma but do not recognise their symptoms.
Professor Jo Douglass, a spokesperson for Asthma Australia and respiratory specialist, stated, “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.”
Douglass emphasised the importance of recognising symptoms associated with asthma, such as nighttime waking and morning wheezing, and consulting a doctor for an asthma review. “People with undiagnosed asthma need to receive a formal diagnosis so they can begin to manage their condition. This could help reduce their risk of an asthma attack or hospitalisation during future thunderstorm asthma events.”
The ryegrass pollen season typically spans from August to December in Victoria. While previous TSA events have been recorded in the southeast region, ryegrass pollen also affects other parts of Australia, making it essential for all individuals with asthma or hay fever to stay vigilant.
Asthma Australia urges people to engage in proactive asthma management year-round. This includes scheduling annual reviews with healthcare providers, updating Asthma Action Plans, using preventer inhalers, and keeping medications readily available. Monitoring pollen levels and avoiding outdoor activities during high-risk periods can also reduce the likelihood of severe asthma episodes.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
