NORTH SHORE HEALTH DEPARTMENT HEALTHY HIGHLIGHTS 07/27/2021 MANAGING ASTHMA IN THE SUMMER HEAT Asthma is a chronic lung condition in which airway inflammation occurs in response to various triggers, including allergens like pollen or mold, irritants like tobacco smoke or air pollution, viral infections, exercise, cold air and stress. This inflammation of the airways blocks airflow and can cause wheezing, chest tightness, cough, and shortness of breath. In Wisconsin, approximately half a million children and adults suffer from asthma. Summer weather presents particular challenges for those with asthma, as heat and humidity promote pollen, dust mites and mold, which are common allergy triggers. Ozone pollution is also worsened by heat, and this too can irritate airways and cause asthma flare-ups. Tips to manage your asthma this summer from WI Department of Health Services: Plan ahead: When temperatures soar, check the Air Quality Index to find out if it's safe to spend time outdoors. Sign up or text or email health advisory alerts. Be prepared: No matter the weather, have your asthma rescue medication with you, especially on hot days. You never know when asthma symptoms may strike, so always keep your inhaler and meds with you and don't leave them in a hot vehicle. Stay cool: Avoid strenuous activity in the heat of the day from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and stay indoors on unsafe air days in air conditioning if possible. If you must be outside, stay in the shade, take frequent breaks, and drink plenty of water. Exercise in early morning when air quality is better. Have an action plan: An asthma management plan (sometimes called an asthma action plan) can help you identify when your asthma is flaring up and what steps to take when that happens on hot days and year-round. Talk to your doctor – If you know your asthma is worse in the summer season or triggered by hot and humid weather, talk to your doctor about your asthma treatment and make sure it is right for you. As fall once again approaches, remember to get your flu shot! It is highly recommended that those with asthma to receive the flu vaccine each year. We provide flu shots at our department. Call 414-371-2980 for more information and watch for our flu clinic schedule on our website and social media. Wisconsin Asthma Coalition Wisconsin DHS Asthma Program Asthma Action Plan from WI Asthma Coalition VACCINATION RECORDS: DO YOU KNOW HOW TO ACCESS YOUR VACCINATION RECORD? COVID-19 vaccination cards contain the information needed to provide proof of vaccination. If the card is lost or additional vaccine history access is needed, the Wisconsin Immunization Registry, or WIR, is an alternative solution. Vaccination card: Your vaccination card has information on when and where you received your vaccine as well as other helpful information related to the COVID-19 vaccine. Keep your card in a safe place! Take picture of your card with your phone so you always have the information with you. When taking pictures or posting selfies about getting your COVID-19 vaccine, do not post photos of your vaccination card online to protect your health information. Do not laminate your vaccination card. You may also visit the Wisconsin Immunization Registry, Public Immunization Record Access webpage for a copy of your complete vaccine record. Missed the highlights? Click here to view previous highlights.