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Asthma in the UAE: Managing Dust Storms, Heat and Triggers
Dust, humidity and cold air conditioning can trigger asthma. Learn the warning signs, how preventer and reliever inhalers work, and what to do in an attack.
Quick answer
Asthma causes wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and breathlessness when the airways narrow in response to triggers such as dust, smoke, infections and exercise. Most people control it with a daily preventer inhaler and a reliever inhaler for symptoms. Call 998 if a reliever is not helping, you cannot speak in full sentences, or your lips turn blue or grey.
In this article
Asthma is a long-term condition of the airways. In the UAE, dust storms, humidity, smoke and the sudden change from hot outdoor air to cold air conditioning are common triggers.
Symptoms
- Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)
- Shortness of breath
- A tight chest
- Coughing, often worse at night or early in the morning
Common triggers
- Dust and sand storms
- Tobacco and shisha smoke
- Colds and flu
- Exercise, especially in cold or dry air
- Dust mites, mould and pet dander
- Strong smells and air fresheners
How asthma is treated
Preventer inhalers contain a low dose of steroid that calms airway inflammation. They need to be used every day, even when you feel well.
Reliever inhalers open the airways quickly during symptoms. If you need your reliever three or more times a week, your asthma is not well controlled and your treatment should be reviewed.
Using a spacer with an inhaler helps more medicine reach the lungs, especially for children.
Your asthma action plan
Ask your GP for a written plan that explains:
- Your daily medicines
- How to recognise your asthma getting worse
- What to do in an attack and when to get help
During a dust storm
- Stay indoors with windows and doors closed
- Keep your reliever inhaler with you
- Take your preventer as prescribed
- Wear a mask if you must go out
What to do in an asthma attack
- Sit up straight and try to stay calm.
- Take your reliever inhaler as instructed in your action plan.
- Call 998 if you don't improve, your symptoms get worse, or you are too breathless to speak, eat or sleep.
When to see a doctor
Book a review if you wake at night with asthma, use your reliever often, or have needed emergency treatment. Asthma should be reviewed at least once a year.
Frequently asked questions
Can asthma be cured?
There is no cure, but with the right treatment most people control it well and live normal, active lives.
Are steroid inhalers safe long term?
Preventer inhalers use low doses that act mainly in the lungs. Your GP will use the lowest dose that controls your symptoms. Rinsing your mouth after use reduces side effects such as a sore mouth.