Revealing an unexpected connection between thunderstorms and asthma

It's rare but real: Thunderstorm asthma.

It’s a mix of pollen, humidity and strong winds. When these elements combine, it can lead to a serious, medical issue.

"Thunderstorms cause pollen grains to rapidly absorb moisture. That will create internal pressure until they rupture. They release microscopic allergen particles that are small enough to reach our lower airways," said Laura Dahmann, a certified respiratory educator with Asthma Canada.

Listen to those winds and look at all the debris being picked up. That can lead to a high dose inhalation of microscopic pollen that can trigger an asthma attack.

(Created by The Weather Network)

When a thunderstorm triggers asthma, the outcome is not mild, and clinics around the globe have reported spikes in hospitalization.

"If you are experiencing tightness in the chest, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath...it's an indication that we need to take this very seriously," said Dahmann.

And that means removing yourself from the high-pollen situation and following your asthma action plan.

Eventually, people should be able to cough out the microscopic pollen particles, relieving the irritation and ending their episode of thunderstorm asthma.

Thumbnail made using and courtesy of CANVA.