How the September Asthma Peak Impacts Adults

In the latest episode of the Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations podcast, we continue our series the September Asthma Peak. This happens every September. It is when more people with asthma end up in the hospital or ER than at any other time of year. Most people think the September Asthma Park only affects schoolchildren. But many adults with asthma are at risk, too. And many do not realize it until it is too late.

Co-hosts Payel Gupta, MD, a board-certified allergist and immunologist, and Kortney, a patient advocate, are joined by Texas-based allergist and immunologist Ashwin Shankar, DO. Together, they talk about why fall is hard on adults with asthma. They cover how people slowly get used to bad symptoms without noticing, and what steps can help keep you safe.

Check out the podcast on ItchPodcast.com or download it for listening anytime, anywhere on your preferred podcast player!

Listen to the Asthma Peak for Adults Podcast

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Thank you to AstraZeneca and Amgen for sponsoring this podcast episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Any mention of brands is also informational and not an endorsement. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical questions or concerns.

Key Takeaways About the September Asthma Peak and Adults

If you have asthma, you should be aware of how it can get worse in September. Planning ahead of time can help you stay healthy.

  • What is the September Asthma Peak? Cooler weather, ragweed pollen, and back-to-school germs all hit at the same time in September. That combination makes it the toughest month of the year for people with asthma.
  • Where fall triggers hide for adults during peak month. Teachers deal with mold in closed-up buildings, outdoor workers face ragweed and cold mornings, and farm workers stir up mold and dust during harvest.
  • Why even well-managed asthma can act up during peak month. More triggers pile up this time of year. A flare in September does not mean you did something wrong.
  • How adults get used to their asthma without noticing. Skipping hikes, avoiding stairs, or living with a cough that will not go away can be signs asthma is not under control, not just signs of getting older.
  • How to get ready before peak week hits. Make sure you have an Asthma Action Plan. Keep track of how often you use your quick-relief inhaler. Get your flu shot at least two weeks before September starts.

Timestamps from our Podcast About the Asthma Peak in Adults

01:13 – Introducing Dr. Ashwin Shankar

02:47 – All about the September Asthma Peak

06:42 – Who needs to worry about peak week

10:42 – Adjusting medicine for peak week

11:47 – Where September or fall triggers hide

14:33 – Normalizing asthma symptoms

20:42 – Getting ready for the September Asthma Peak

22:46 – How uncontrolled asthma affects daily life

More Resources About the September Asthma Peak

Additional podcasts on Asthma Peak Week