Thunderstorm asthma (Royal Children's Hospital)

Information about thunderstorm asthma and how it affects children.

• Thunderstorm asthma is triggered by high pollen levels and thunderstorms.
• The condition is rare but can be sudden, serious and life-threatening.
• Thunderstorm asthma is more likely to affect children with asthma or hay fever, but any child can get it.
• Watch the pollen count and thunderstorm asthma forecast during the spring.
• If the forecast predicts thunderstorm asthma conditions, try to keep your child inside, close your doors and windows and set your air conditioner to recycle air when in use.
• Be alert for signs of asthma, such as difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, wheezing and coughing.
• If your child has asthma, follow their Asthma Action Plan.