How seniors can breathe easy and beat summer heat

Martin Joyce-Brady, M.D.

Summer is here. For many, this is the best time of the year because we get to go to the beach, work in our gardens or enjoy any number of outdoor pastimes. After a long New England winter (and an all-too-fleeting spring), we can finally go out and enjoy ourselves.

However, for many seniors this time of year comes with cautions as well. For those with nagging allergies, lung illnesses or other breathing problems, the summer day needs some sizing up in order to avoid unplanned, unpleasant and uncomfortable episodes of shortness of breath, known to doctors as dyspnea.

There are several factors that need consideration during this season, particularly for those people who live in the city. These include pollen, pollution from local industry and smog from automobiles. These are “The Big Three” creators of airborne allergens and irritants that can make it difficult for seniors to breathe.

Add on humidity and threat of dyspnea is guaranteed. On its own, the heavy and wet air that is so common in the summer can make it tough to breathe. But humid air also traps pollens, keeping them airborne. Together, the humidity and pollens can form a powerful one-two punch that can seriously threaten seniors, particularly those who already have asthma, heart problems or other chronic medical conditions.

However, there are steps that seniors can take to protect themselves:

Stay inside when pollen and humidity levels are high. Air conditioning is the most powerful weapon in the fight against humidity and pollen. Properly installed air conditioners seal out pollens and smog, keeping them away from frail lungs. Air conditioning also neutralizes humidity by removing water from the air. Seniors who don’t have air conditioners can often find comfort in neighborhood libraries, community centers and senior centers. If air conditioning is not available, fans can offer a degree of comfort. Dehumidifiers are also very effective at removing water from the air.

Know the weather conditions before leaving the house. The easiest and most convenient way to determine whether it is safe to go outside is to watch weather reports on local news programs or on the Weather Channel. In addition to providing up-to-date weather information, these reports also provide updates on pollen levels and warnings whenever air quality becomes unsafe. Seniors with Internet access can also log onto www.weather.com for the latest weather and air quality information.

Avoid grassy areas. Rather than taking a walk in a local park, seniors can walk through a local shopping mall. Many malls host walking clubs to provide a safe and comfortable place for walkers to get exercise and spend time with others. If it is impossible to avoid grassy areas, seniors should at least steer clear of lawns and parks when they are being mowed, since pollen is likely to be stirred up during mowing. Similarly, seniors should avoid mowing or raking their yards when pollen counts are high, as such activities can leave them covered in pollen. And when they return home, seniors should shower and change their clothes.

Don’t hang-dry clothing outdoors in the summer. Many people love the fresh smell and feel of clothing that dries outside. However, these clothes can end up covered in pollen by the time they are taken off the line.

Use automobile air conditioners or leave car windows only part open. When driving, seniors face twice as many breathing hazards: in addition to humidity and pollen, they have to deal with smog and auto emissions. If the vehicle is air-conditioned, a closed window serves to seal out pollutants. If not, a partly opened window can provide some balance between ventilation and exposure.

Manage medications. It is essential that seniors carefully manage their medications. This is especially important if they are at risk for breathing problems from excessive heat or humidity. Asthma sufferers should be sure to have their rapid acting inhalers with them at all times. If an emergency occurs and it becomes necessary to rush home for an inhaler, relief may come too late.

It is vital for seniors to take every precaution against heat, humidity and pollution during the summer months. Summer conditions can bring on catastrophic breathing difficulties without warning. These few simple steps ensure protection so the season can be enjoyed in all its splendor.

Martin Joyce-Brady is director of the Pulmonary Care Unit at Radius Specialty Hospital in Boston.