Are You Allergic to Rain?

By Dr. Mercola Dust mites, animal dander, molds, and pollen are among the most common environmental triggers of asthma attacks and allergy symptoms. For some, however, a spring or summer thunderstorm may lead to a flare-up of symptoms. Research shows an association between thunderstorm activity and worsening of allergy and asthma symptoms; one study found a 3 percent increase in emergency-room visits for asthma attacks in the 24 hours following thunderstorms.1 As the researchers explained: “While a three percent increase in risk may seem modest, asthma is quite prevalent… and a modest relative increase could have a significant public health impact in the population.” What Causes Thunderstorm Asthma? The phenomenon, known as “thunderstorm asthma,” isn’t so much an issue of people being allergic to rain. […] Read More