Warm, wet and changeable weather - it can create thunderstorms. And while you'll either love or hate this phenomena and the unpredictability of potential lightening strikes, there is also another concern of which to be aware - thunder fever! It's also a condition that can lead to a hefty fine if you're a driver.
If you've never heard of 'thunder fever' or ‘thunderstorm asthma’, and we will admit we were in that category, the term refers to an allergic reaction that occurs during thunderstorms. A recent television appearance by Dr Hilary on ITV's Lorraine show explained the problem. He said: "What happens is the pollen that is already present in the atmosphere... ruptures spilling the protein, which gets in the lungs. "
Hayfever sufferers and those with asthma are most as risk, according to a report in the Metro, which says the rare phenomenon can see the moisture from storms shattering pollen normally too large to enter humans’ airways into tiny particles. This then allows them to travel deep inside the lungs. There is also evidence to suggest lightning strikes may create these freak pollen ‘bombs’. Dr Farooque, from Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, was quoted in the publication advising people with hay fever or asthma to stay indoors and close windows before and after a storm, and to stock up on antihistamines. If they must go outside they should wear a mask to limit exposure to pollen particles, she said.
