Sea vs Mountains – Asthma Allergy & Asthma Air Compared

Near the sea, the air is enriched with iodine, salt, and magnesium, which moisten the mucous membranes and have anti-inflammatory effects. The fine aerosol mist can loosen mucus, make coughing easier, and help relieve asthma and allergy symptoms. Many people also report improved skin in cases of eczema and a positive effect on mental health, as the sea conveys calm and relaxation.

• Tip: Walks early in the morning or in the evening, when fewer people are around, let you breathe deeply and absorb the salty air more effectively.
• Tip: Use your time by the sea to reduce stress – relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation outdoors can amplify the positive effects of sea air.
• Tip: When swimming in the sea, be mindful of open skin areas, as salt may sting; however, short dips often have anti-inflammatory effects.

If you want to know how to avoid pollen year-round, see Seasonal allergies throughout the year: Asthma allergy & pollen.

The alpine climate offers unique benefits: at medium and high altitudes, dust mites, pollen, fungal spores, and air pollution are greatly reduced. These factors work together to lower inflammation and often give people with asthma a breathing break. Studies show that reduced allergen exposure and lower air pressure in the mountains can have immunomodulatory effects, helping control inflammation and ease stress reactions.

• Tip: Pay attention to altitude: medium elevations (1,500–2,500 m) usually offer the best compromise between low allergen levels and good physical adaptation. Very high altitudes may strain the cardiovascular system.
• Tip: UV radiation is stronger in the mountains; use sunscreen and sunglasses to protect skin and eyes.
• Tip: Take the opportunity for moderate exercise such as hiking – it trains the respiratory muscles and strengthens the cardiovascular system.

If you are interested in how air quality differs in cities and rural areas, see City air or country air?.

Whether sea or mountains is better depends on your personal triggers and preferences. If you mainly struggle with air pollutants and fine particles, a stay in the high mountains can bring relief. If you are more sensitive to dust mites but less to pollen, the mild coastal climate may be sufficient to soothe your airways. Some people combine both climates: a seaside holiday in spring and a hiking trip in late summer spreads the recovery throughout the year.

To benefit in the long term, it is important to monitor the asthma air in your environment. An app supports you in recognizing trends – for example, whether your symptoms increase with fine dust, pollen, or heat.

Both sea air and mountain air have positive effects on asthma allergies. Sea air, thanks to iodine, salt, and magnesium, soothes the airways and reduces inflammation, while the alpine climate offers an environment with fewer allergens and less air pollution. The decision of whether you should travel to the sea or the mountains is individual. Try both regions and use digital helpers like the Breathment app to document your experiences. Learn more about everyday air quality is influenced by the Climate Change and Extreme Weather, and how to use weather influences in Using Weather & Air Quality.