High humidity directly affects the respiratory system, especially for individuals with bronchial asthma. A humid environment easily irritates the airways and fosters the growth of allergens such as: mold and dust mites. During humid weather, patients often experience new or worsened symptoms like: coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

Patients should monitor weather forecasts and humidity levels in their area. When humidity remains high for an extended period, it is advisable to limit prolonged outdoor activities, particularly in the early morning or after rain when the air is often damp. Reducing exposure to humid environments helps minimize airway irritation and lowers the risk of asthma attacks.

Doctor Ngan examining a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Patients also need to recognize early signs of an asthma attack, such as: increased coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or a feeling of heaviness and chest tightness. When symptoms begin to appear, patients should follow their doctor's treatment plan to manage the condition and prevent it from worsening.

In some cases, quick-relief bronchodilators can be used to relax the smooth muscles in the airways. When the airways expand, airflow into the lungs becomes easier, alleviating shortness of breath. However, medication use must strictly adhere to the doctor's prescription and guidance.

Not only outdoors, but indoor humidity can also rise during humid days. A damp environment easily creates conditions for mold and dust mites to thrive, which can irritate the airways and trigger asthma attacks. Patients should keep their living spaces dry and airy, limit dampness and mold indoors, and maintain appropriate humidity levels to reduce the risk of respiratory irritation. It is advisable to keep doors and windows closed on humid days, use a dehumidifier, or set the air conditioner to dehumidifying mode. These measures help keep indoor air dry, thereby limiting factors that can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Exercising outdoors on humid days can easily irritate the airways, especially when humid air combines with dust or pollution. Patients should prioritize exercising indoors, at a gym, or in air-conditioned areas to maintain a stable air environment.

Master, doctor Nguyen Van Ngan

Department of Respiratory Medicine

Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi