Core Viewpoint - The recent thunderstorm in Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, led to a significant increase in patients suffering from respiratory symptoms, particularly "thunderstorm asthma," with over 1,000 cases reported in a single hospital within a short time frame [1][2]. Group 1: Thunderstorm Asthma Overview - Thunderstorm asthma is characterized by acute asthma attacks or exacerbation of symptoms in asthma or allergic rhinitis patients during or after a thunderstorm [1]. - The phenomenon is primarily linked to pollen allergies, where thunderstorms can break down pollen into smaller particles that are more easily inhaled, triggering acute bronchospasm [1]. Group 2: Patient Demographics and Symptoms - A high proportion of patients affected includes children, young adults, and pregnant women, most of whom had a prior diagnosis of allergic rhinitis but did not take it seriously [2]. - Symptoms observed include nasal congestion, severe coughing, difficulty breathing, and inability to lie flat, prompting urgent medical attention [2]. Group 3: Prevention and Treatment Recommendations - Patients are advised to be aware of their allergy history and keep antihistamines and nasal sprays at home, especially during high-risk periods, which are identified as two hours before and three hours after a thunderstorm [2]. - It is emphasized that allergic diseases can be prevented and treated, and patients should seek specialized care for proper diagnosis and treatment, including desensitization therapy once symptoms stabilize [2].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the health risks associated with thunderstorm asthma, particularly for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions during severe weather events like thunderstorms [1][3]. Group 1: Thunderstorm Asthma - Thunderstorm asthma is characterized by acute asthma attacks that occur during or shortly after thunderstorms, with symptoms including sudden coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, often affecting groups of people [1]. - The phenomenon is linked to the increased presence of pollen and mold spores during thunderstorms, which are broken down into smaller particles (2-3 micrometers) that are easily inhaled, triggering asthma symptoms [3]. Group 2: Vulnerable Populations - Children have more sensitive and narrower airways, while elderly individuals often have underlying heart and lung conditions, making them more susceptible to severe cases of thunderstorm asthma [5]. - Recommendations for vulnerable populations include staying indoors, closing windows, using air purification devices, and promptly changing clothes after being outside to reduce exposure to allergens [5].

Core Insights - The article highlights the health risks associated with thunderstorms, emphasizing the need for scientific protection and tailored strategies for different populations [1][2][3] Group 1: Health Risks from Thunderstorms - Thunderstorms pose multiple health risks, including direct dangers like lightning strikes, which result in 24,000 to 30,000 deaths and 240,000 to 300,000 injuries globally each year [2] - Thunderstorm asthma is a growing concern, where increased humidity before storms causes pollen and mold spores to swell, leading to allergic reactions and asthma exacerbations [2] - Sudden changes in atmospheric pressure during thunderstorms can trigger acute cardiovascular events, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly [2][3] Group 2: Protective Measures - Individuals are advised to monitor weather forecasts and avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorm warnings, seeking shelter in buildings with lightning protection [3] - Those with asthma or allergies should close windows before storms and have emergency medications ready, while also seeking medical attention if symptoms worsen [3] - Caregivers for vulnerable populations should ensure home safety and monitor health conditions proactively, preparing for potential emergencies [4] Group 3: Community and Systemic Responses - Establishing a refined management mechanism at the community level is essential, including real-time health monitoring for high-risk individuals [5][6] - Public spaces should enhance protective measures, such as installing lightning warning systems and clear evacuation signage [6] - Upgrading meteorological services is crucial for effective disaster prevention, utilizing AI and big data for precise and timely alerts [6] - Medical institutions need to strengthen emergency response systems, ensuring adequate supplies and training for basic life support [6]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the health risks associated with thunderstorms, highlighting the need for scientific protection and tailored strategies for different populations to mitigate these risks [2][7][11]. Group 1: Health Risks from Thunderstorms - Thunderstorms pose multiple health risks, including direct dangers like lightning strikes, which result in 24,000 to 30,000 deaths and 240,000 to 300,000 injuries globally each year [2]. - Thunderstorm asthma is a growing concern, as increased humidity before storms can cause pollen and mold spores to swell, leading to allergic reactions and asthma exacerbations [2]. - Sudden changes in atmospheric pressure during thunderstorms can trigger acute cardiovascular events, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly [7]. Group 2: Recommendations for Protection - Individuals should closely monitor weather forecasts and avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorm warnings, seeking shelter in buildings with proper lightning protection [8]. - For those with asthma or allergies, it is advised to close windows and use air purifiers before storms, and to have emergency medications readily available [8]. - Caregivers of vulnerable individuals should enhance home safety, remove hazards, and prepare emergency plans to address potential health risks during thunderstorms [9]. Group 3: Community and Systemic Measures - Establishing a refined management mechanism at the community level is crucial, including real-time health monitoring for high-risk individuals [10]. - Public spaces should enhance protective measures, such as installing lightning warning systems and clear evacuation signage [10]. - Upgrading meteorological services to provide precise and timely warnings using advanced technologies is essential for disaster prevention [10]. - Medical institutions need to improve emergency response systems, ensuring adequate supplies and training for handling storm-related injuries [10].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the health risks associated with thunderstorms, highlighting the need for scientific protection and tailored strategies for different populations to mitigate these risks [1][2][3]. Health Risks of Thunderstorm Weather - Thunderstorm weather poses multi-layered health risks, including direct dangers such as lightning strikes, with global statistics indicating 24,000 to 30,000 deaths and 240,000 to 300,000 injuries annually due to lightning [2]. - Thunderstorm asthma has gained attention, where increased humidity before storms causes pollen and mold spores to swell, leading to allergic reactions and asthma exacerbations when struck by lightning [2]. - Sudden changes in atmospheric pressure during thunderstorms can trigger acute cardiovascular events, particularly in the elderly [2]. - Mental health issues may arise, as the sounds and lights of thunderstorms can provoke anxiety in sensitive individuals, and the risk of accidents increases due to slippery conditions [2]. Scientific Protection and Tailored Strategies - Individuals are advised to monitor weather forecasts closely and avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorm warnings, seeking shelter in buildings with lightning protection [3]. - Those with asthma or allergies should close windows and use air purifiers, keeping emergency medications on hand [3]. - Patients reliant on medical devices should ensure power supply and prepare emergency kits for potential device failures [3][4]. Community and Systemic Measures - Establishing a refined management mechanism at the community level is crucial, with health service centers collaborating with property management to monitor high-risk individuals [5]. - Public spaces should enhance standardized protective measures, including lightning warning systems and clear evacuation signage [6]. - Upgrading meteorological services is essential for effective disaster prevention, utilizing AI and big data for precise warning dissemination [6]. - Medical institutions must strengthen emergency response systems, ensuring adequate supplies for treating lightning-related injuries and training staff in basic emergency skills [6]. Conclusion - While thunderstorms are uncontrollable, effective preparation and scientific responses can significantly reduce health risks, necessitating personalized protection plans for individuals [6].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increase in cases of thunderstorm asthma in Chongqing due to recent thunderstorm weather, highlighting the health risks for allergic individuals and the necessary precautions to take during such weather events [1][2]. Group 1: Thunderstorm Asthma Overview - Thunderstorm asthma is characterized by acute respiratory issues triggered by thunderstorms, particularly affecting individuals aged 30 to 60 with a history of allergies such as pollen and dust mites [2]. - During thunderstorms, allergens like pollen and mold spores are lifted into the air and broken down into fine particles less than 2.5 micrometers, which can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to severe asthma attacks in susceptible individuals [2]. Group 2: Patient Statistics and Hospital Response - On April 11, hospitals in Chongqing received over 300 patients suffering from acute respiratory diseases due to thunderstorm conditions, prompting an emergency response from medical facilities [1]. - Most patients experienced significant symptom relief after treatment, indicating the effectiveness of medical interventions during such health crises [1]. Group 3: Expert Recommendations - Experts recommend that individuals with allergies should stay indoors, close windows, and use air purifiers during thunderstorms to minimize exposure to allergens [2][4]. - For those with existing respiratory conditions, using common inhalers can help alleviate symptoms, while those with milder allergic reactions may benefit from oral antihistamines [4]. - It is advised that susceptible individuals monitor their health closely before and after thunderstorms and consider preventive use of antihistamines to avoid severe reactions [4].