The June bank holiday weekend is so close we can almost taste it, and not only is it a three day break but it's rumoured to be sunny too!
While we’re all set for fun and games, there’s a couple of things to be keep in mind as this time of year can be difficult for asthma and hay fever sufferers.
In Dublin alone there are two major festivals taking place, Forbidden Fruit and Bloom, not to mention the various gatherings taking place around the country.
The craic is guaranteed but these events can often trigger both hay fever and asthma attacks. The good news is that taking simple precautions will help to control the condition.
Frances Guiney, asthma nurse specialist with the Asthma Society says, “The June Bank Holiday weekend can be a dangerous time for asthma and hay fever sufferers.
"A high pollen count, coupled with the additional triggers at festivals such as second-hand smoke, alcohol, dry ice, and mould from tents, can all affect respiratory conditions.
“From experience, we know that many people forget to bring their inhalers to events over the weekend and, in the midst of festivities, can often let symptoms worsen rather than dealing with asthma when it strikes".
The Asthma Society of Ireland urges people to carry their inhalers at all times, to inform friends that they have asthma and to know where the medical tents are located when attending arranged events.
Those prone to hay fever or suffering from asthma should check the pollen forecast for the weekend on
www.asthma.ie or on the Asthma Society’s free iPhone app ‘Asthma Coach’.
For more information, the Asthma Society of Ireland can also be contacted via their social networks on
Facebook and
Twitter. 
