Living with Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CPA) or Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) means being aware not just of your lungs, but also of what’s happening outside your window. Weather — especially wind, humidity, temperature, and seasonal changes — can have a real impact on breathing, energy levels, and symptom control. Here’s why, and what you can do to stay ahead of it.
🌬️ Windy Days: A Hidden Risk
Windy weather stirs up fungal spores, dust, and other irritants. For people with CPA or ABPA, this matters because:
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Aspergillus spores are more airborne on windy days, increasing the risk of exposure.
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In ABPA, this can trigger allergic inflammation — causing wheeze, tight chest, and coughing.
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In CPA, inhaling spores can worsen existing infection or symptoms, particularly if lung cavities are already inflamed or colonised.
What you can do:
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Avoid being outdoors for long periods on very windy days, especially in dry weather.
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If you must go out, wear a well-fitted mask (e.g., FFP2 or FFP3).
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Shower and change clothes when you come in — spores can cling to skin and fabric.
🌡️ Temperature Extremes: Cold or Hot
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Cold air can tighten the airways, leading to breathlessness and coughing.
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Hot, humid weather can feel heavy on the chest and worsen fatigue.
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Both extremes may contribute to oxygen desaturation and general discomfort.
What you can do:
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In cold weather: Breathe through your nose or wear a scarf or mask to warm the air before it hits your lungs.
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In hot weather: Stay hydrated, rest in cool rooms, and avoid going out during peak heat.
🌧️ Rain and Damp Weather
Rain might temporarily reduce airborne spores, but damp conditions indoors (e.g., from leaks or poor ventilation) can allow Aspergillus to grow on walls, furniture, or in bathrooms.
What you can do:
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Use a dehumidifier indoors and ensure good ventilation.
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Fix any damp or mould problems promptly.
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Clean areas like windowsills and shower tiles regularly with anti-fungal solutions* see accompanying post for more details .
🌸 Pollen and Seasonal Changes
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In ABPA, allergic responses can be triggered or worsened in spring and summer, when other environmental allergens (like pollen or grass) are high.
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These allergens can amplify immune responses already sensitised to Aspergillus.
What you can do:
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Monitor pollen forecasts and avoid high-pollen areas on bad days ** see forecast details here.
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Keep windows closed during peak pollen hours.
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Consider using HEPA filters in the home.
📉 Barometric Pressure Drops
Some people notice worsened symptoms just before storms or weather changes — this may be due to changes in air pressure affecting breathing or causing low mood and fatigue.
What you can do:
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Track weather patterns (ie. keep a diary) if you notice recurring patterns with your symptoms.
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Speak with your care team if you feel you’re more vulnerable during certain types of weather — you might benefit from adjustments to medications or a rescue plan.
🚨 When to Seek Help
If you experience:
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Oxygen saturations dropping below 92% and not improving within 20–30 minutes,
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Rapid breathing, chest tightness, or a pounding heart that doesn’t settle,
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Confusion, faintness, or signs of a flare-up that feels “different” from usual,
Don’t wait — contact 111 or go to A&E. You know your body best, but these signs mean your lungs are struggling.
✅ How to Prepare for Weather Sensitivity
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Keep a symptom diary linked to weather changes — it helps your specialist spot patterns.
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Ask your consultant if you should have:
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A rescue inhaler (e.g., salbutamol),
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A short-term steroid plan (for ABPA flares),
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Portable oxygen or a pulse oximeter for home monitoring.
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Have a weather-safe plan for exercise — walking indoors or using a treadmill can help stay active without exposure.
🧘♀️ Final Thought
You can’t control the weather, but you can control your environment and how you respond to it. Understanding how CPA and ABPA react to different conditions helps you stay safe, informed, and in charge of your health.
If you’ve noticed your symptoms worsen in certain weather, don’t hesitate to mention it to your specialist — it’s a valuable piece of your health puzzle.
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