HAY fever sufferers at risk of deadly asthma attacks are being warned to "stay inside" today - as a massive pollen bomb hits the UK. Warnings for 'very high' pollen levels are in place from today - and into the weekend - with grass season now upon us. 2 Warnings for 'very high' pollen levels are in place from today 2 Brits at risk of asthma attacks have been urged to take precations An estimated 13 million Britons are plagued by symptoms of hay fever every summer from itchy eyes, a constant runny nose, headaches to irritating sneezes.
For people with asthma, high pollen levels can be fatal. “More than three million people with asthma are affected by pollen and when levels are at their highest it can be deadly for those with a lung condition," said Erika Radford from Asthma + Lung UK. "When pollen particles are breathed in, they can cause inflammation in the airways and get into the lungs, making it harder for those with lung conditions to breathe which can be terrifying," she explained.
However, Erica said there are things people with asthma can do to protect themselves. “Checking pollen and air pollution forecasts in your local area every day is a good idea, so you can avoid going outdoors as much as possible on high pollen days," she said. “You should always have your reliever inhaler nearby, even when at home, in case pollen does trigger symptoms like breathlessness or chest tightness.
"Reliever inhalers quickly relax the muscles in the airways to help you breathe mo.
