As we enter the spring months, GPs are calling for patients to be prepared in managing hay fever, allergies, and asthma.
It comes following emerging evidence that climate change is creating longer pollen seasons in some of our largest cities, only heightening the importance of taking asthma and allergic rhinitis seriously. New data also reveals that Melbourne's pollen season is starting earlier and lasting longer.
President of the Royal Australian College of GPs, Dr Michael Wright, said that your regular GP is ready to help.
"Hay fever is very common, and it's vital patients who experience allergic rhinitis and asthma manage their conditions very carefully," he said.
"This includes consulting with your regular GP to ensure you have an asthma plan in place. Rather than waiting for asthma flare ups to occur as the seasons change and pollen counts grow in coming weeks and months, it's important to have a plan ready, including preventive medications.
"Melbourne is notoriously the allergy capital of the world, with almost a third of people experiencing allergic rhinitis, often due to inhaling pollens. However, this isn't a problem isolated to Melbourne, people in communities nationwide should be ready.
"Thunderstorm asthma typically strikes in our south-eastern states from October to December, so now is the time to be prepared. People with allergy issues are at increased risk, so again these patients should talk to their GP about starting hay fever treatment and potentially asthma prevention ahead of time. It's best to be prepared, and your GP is there ready to help."
~
