Understanding the springtime surge in asthma cases

Asthma is typically associated with chronic inflammation and hyperresponsiveness of the lower airway to triggers, leading to variable and reversible airway narrowing, either spontaneously or via treatment. There is much interest about the ‘one airway’ hypothesis (box 1), meaning that the upper and lower airways respond interactively. Therefore, spring is a time for the nurse to consider and manage both allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and asthma together.

Annual asthma reviews are an opportunity to update asthma action plans and allergic rhinitis (AR) plans to support those who are affected by seasonal triggers. Such plans should incorporate guidance on increasing medications to cope with seasonal triggers, or to encourage people to contact the surgery if control of AR or asthma is lost.