With pollen levels rising and the storm season upon us, the risk of thunderstorm asthma events increase. But just what is thunderstorm asthma?
It occurs when we get thunderstorms during high-pollen periods.
Symptoms include wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and coughing.
And despite its name, it is not only experienced by people with asthma. Those with allergic rhinitis or ryegrass and pollen allergy are also at higher risk.
It can also impact people with no history of asthma or allergy - so everyone must be vigilant.
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners said thunderstorm asthma claimed 10 lives and triggered a 672 per cent rise in respiratory-related presentations to Melbourne and Geelong public hospitals during one tragic event in 2016.
The organisation's vice-president Bruce Willett said patients should have an asthma plan in place.
"Be alert and be prepared, especially in Victoria where pollen levels are high and the weather has been stormy," he said.
"Where there have been high rainfall levels and warm, humid weather, grass blooms and pollen counts go up."
Dr Willett said there are positive steps people should take, especially if you or someone you know experiences asthma.
"People who suffer from hay fever as well as current, past or undiagnosed asthmatics, are at increased risk and should be prepared to carefully monitor and manage symptoms in the months ahead.
"If you don't have an asthma action plan, now is a great opportunity to arrange one."
He said people with high risk factors should regularly check the Victorian Department of Health's epidemic thunderstorm asthma risk forecast and information on thunderstorm asthma from NSW Health.
"No one can predict when thunderstorm asthma will strike with total certainty, but we can prevent harm by being aware of the dangers and taking sensible precautions.
"We also strongly recommend you monitor the thunderstorm asthma risk, carry your reliever with you at all times, take your preventive medication even if asthma symptoms aren't present, and avoid being outdoors when storms strike or during the winds that often precede storm events."
The organisation also has thunderstorm asthma resources for GPs and general practice teams.
