Rain Allergies and Asthma: Are You Allergic to Rain?

You may not be exactly allergic to rain but rain may cause severe asthma and allergy symptoms in some people.

Roughly 95% of people with asthma suffer from allergies. Rain can irritate those with asthma especially severely. Heavy rain typically washes pollen out of the environment. But before it gets to that point, rain often causes pollen spores to burst sending a large amount of pollen into the air. This happens most during light rains. Pollen particles and grains get broken apart releasing tiny particles into the air. Winds from thunderstorms help the pollens to travel farther distances as well.

When an allergy sufferer breathes in these freshly burst pollen grains, it can cause severe asthma symptoms called "thunderclap asthma." This causes an allergic reaction in the lungs for those with and even without an existing asthma condition. Research suggests that a storm's electrical charge can make pollen more sticky. This can increase the chance that these pollens will cause major irritation if and when inhaled.

Dust mites, animal dander, molds, and pollen are the most common triggers of asthma and allergy symptoms. However, summer rains can cause increased symptoms. Research shows a relationship between thunderstorms and worsening of asthma and allergies. Thunderclap asthma doesn't necessarily mean you are allergic to rain. But it does increase the chances of breathing issues and allergy symptoms.

There is hope. There are steps you can take to decrease the rain's effect on your allergies and asthma. Keeping your windows closed, showering and washing your hair and bedding at night all can help to keep the pollens to a minimum. Pay special attention to upcoming weather reports. Keep asthma medication with you at all times because inclement weather can strike without any warning. Try to stay indoors when you know a rain storm in approaching. Taking products designed to help with asthma and allergies on a regular basis can help as well. Allergena Fragrance helps with airborne allergens that can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms. Being prepared is your best defense to keeping your asthma and allergies to a minimum when it rains.