26.08.2025
Weather influences our breathing more than many realize. For people
with asthma allergy, fine dust, air pollution, humidity, ozone
exposure, and pollen are important factors that can intensify their
symptoms. Ground-level ozone is produced by chemical reactions between
vehicle emissions and volatile organic compounds; it is one of the
most common pollutants, especially in summer, and irritates the
airways. Fine particles such as PM2.5 can penetrate deep into the
lungs and even enter the bloodstream. Hot, humid air promotes the
growth of dust mites and molds and raises ozone and pollen levels.
This article shows how to use weather data and air quality alerts to
avoid asthma and allergy symptoms – and what role the Breathment app
plays in doing so.
More control in everyday life – with the Breathment app
With the Breathment app, you can keep an eye on all important
environmental factors: it shows particulate, ozone, and pollen
levels as well as humidity in your area. This way, you
recognize patterns and can adjust activities to minimize
asthma and allergy flares.
Why Weather & Air Quality Matter for Asthma
Small particles and gases from the air enter the lungs via the nose
and mouth; both short- and long-term exposure can lead to breathing
problems, asthma attacks and reduced lung function. Ozone, a component
of smog, is particularly irritating and worsens asthma and chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5)
penetrates deep into the lungs and can cause heart, vascular and
respiratory disease. One study shows that exposure to PM2.5 and
nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in early childhood markedly increases the risk
of developing asthma; high levels of particle pollution and ozone lead
to poorer lung function and more hospital visits. Humidity is also a
factor: hot, humid air helps dust mites and mold grow and increases
ozone and pollen concentrations.
Understanding Weather Forecasts & Air Quality
Forecasts provide more than temperatures and rainfall; they also warn
of storms, heat or thunderstorms – events that can break up pollen and
make them more inhalable. The Air Quality Index (AQI) rates daily
levels of ozone, fine particulate matter and other pollutants.
According to the EPA, people with asthma should limit outdoor
activities when the AQI reaches 101 (orange) or higher. In Germany and
Europe, websites like Luftdaten.info, pollen calendars and regional
environmental agencies provide current readings.
Tips:
-
Check the AQI and pollen forecast daily. When values are high, plan
activities indoors or early in the morning.
-
Thunderstorms can cause “thunderstorm asthma” by breaking up pollen
– stay informed if you are sensitive.
-
Watch humidity levels during heat waves; air conditioners with HEPA
filters can reduce humidity and pollen load.
For more on seasonal pollen loads, see
Seasonal allergies throughout the year: Asthma allergy & pollen. To learn how air quality differs between cities and rural areas,
read
City air or country air?.
How the Breathment App Tracks Air Quality
The Breathment app is your personal companion for monitoring asthma
air. Its built‑in air quality module pulls data from regional
monitoring stations and satellites, showing you:
-
Fine particles (PM2.5/PM10) and general pollution: See current
levels and trends. When concentrations are critical, the app alerts
you so you can adjust activities or use masks.
-
Humidity: Too much moisture encourages mites and mold; too little
dries mucous membranes. The app gives recommendations for optimal
indoor humidity.
-
Ozone exposure: Receive warnings during high ozone days, especially
on hot summer days, with suggestions for planning.
-
Pollen and grasses: Using pollen calendars and local data, the app
displays the levels of tree, grass and weed pollen. You can record
your symptoms to detect correlations.
In addition, the app allows you to log individual triggers. You can
see, for example, whether your symptoms increase with heat, dryness or
specific types of pollen. This helps you learn which environments suit
you best. The app also suggests breathing exercises and medication
reminders.
Practical Tips & Strategies
-
Plan activities: Avoid walking or exercising outside during midday
heat or when ozone and particulate pollution are high. Opt for
indoor workouts or train early in the morning.
-
Improve indoor air: Ventilate briefly but thoroughly when outdoor
air is clean. HEPA air purifiers reduce particles and allergens.
-
Regulate humidity: Keep humidity between 40–50%; dehumidifiers help
when it is too humid, humidifiers help in dry heating seasons.
-
Use protective gear: Masks with particulate filters protect against
fine dust, especially during wildfire smoke or smog. Sunglasses and
hats reduce pollen exposure to eyes and hair.
-
Use the app regularly: Document symptoms and environmental
conditions; this helps identify patterns and share them with your
doctor.
For more tips on how the climate influences your breathing:
Climate Change and Extreme Weather. A comparison of different climate regions is provided in
Sea vs Mountains.
Conclusion – Weather & Air Quality as Keys to Asthma Control
Proactively using weather and air quality information helps people
with asthma allergy minimize symptoms. Ground-level ozone and
particulate matter irritate the lungs and increase the risk of asthma
attacks, while high humidity boosts mite and mold loads. Modern tools
like the Air Quality Index and the Breathment app enable you to
recognize these risks in time. By adjusting your activities,
optimizing your environment and responding to warnings, you can keep
your asthma air under control. With the right strategy, daily life
becomes a bit easier despite changing weather.
