Highlights
- •Thunderstorm asthma (TA) refers to exacerbation of asthma when thunderstorms are in the area.
- •Epidemic TA is a rare occurrence that impacts large numbers of patients who present with acute bronchoconstriction or asthma exacerbation after a thunderstorm, especially during high pollen counts.
- •Epidemic TA events have been reported worldwide, including a 3% increase in asthma associated with a thunderstorm events in the United States.
- •This article reviewed recommendations in case of an event.
- •Consideration for environmental impact and potential risk for TA/epidemic TA.
Abstract
Thunderstorm asthma refers to the increase in acute asthma symptoms during or immediately
after severe storm activity, especially during certain seasons. Epidemic thunderstorm
asthma occurs when large numbers of patients are affected by thunderstorm activity.
These thunderstorm asthma cases can be anywhere from mild to severe symptoms and requiring
serious medical attention. Epidemic thunderstorm asthma events emphasize the importance
of preventative and ongoing asthma and allergic rhinitis identification and management
along with community education and awareness. This review highlights the significant
impact on the emergency medical system and the need for risk assessments, asthma action
plans, and overall advanced emergency preparedness.
Keywords
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Biography
Nancy Cantey Banasiak, DNP, PPCNP-BC, is an associate professor at Yale University School of Nursing, Orange, CT, and can be contacted at [email protected]
Biography
Sarah Ann Keil Heinonen, DNP, CPNP-BC, is a pediatric nurse practitioner at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA.
Biography
Amanda C. Filippelli, MSN, PPCNP-BC, AE-C, is a pediatric nurse practitioner at Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford.
Article info
Publication history
Published online: July 15, 2021
Footnotes
In compliance with standard ethical guidelines, the authors report no relationships with business or industry that would pose a conflict of interest.
Identification
Copyright
© 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
