The spectrum of thunderstorm-related respiratory disorders is greater than thunderstorm asthma. This can result in an increase in cases being seen in the Emergency Department.
Possible mechanisms:
(1) release of allergens into the air due to turbulence
(2) increased allergens due to the extra moisture
(3) ozone or other gases released by the lightning
(4) biogenic volatile organic compounds
(5) dust or other debris
Time frame: up to several days after a thunderstorm
Risk factors for a thunderstorm-related respiratory disorder:
(1) patient's age >= 65 years
(2) asthma
(3) COPD
(4) summer
It might be interesting to monitor the changes in air quality before, during and after the storm.
A patient with existing respiratory disease may benefit from careful compliance with medications and to take additional respiratory precautions.
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