As temperatures soar above 30C this week, medical experts have warned asthma sufferers that they're at risk of potentially 'deadly' asthma attacks due to the baking heat.
The Met Office has predicted that temperatures will rise to 37C in London at the peak of a three-day heatwave hitting UK, which is reportedly the result of an 'African plume' moving in from the south.
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And in the wake of the sweltering heat, doctors have warned asthma sufferers that the hotter air brings increased risks of potential attacks, especially for those who also suffer from hay fever.
Dr Andy Whittamore, clinical lead at Asthma UK and a practising GP, told Pretty 52: "A toxic cocktail of hot humid weather and rising pollen levels this week could be extremely hazardous for the 5.4 million people in the UK with asthma, triggering deadly asthma attacks.
"Hot air and hay fever can cause people's airways to narrow, leaving them struggling to breathe, with symptoms like coughing, wheezing, a tight chest and breathlessness.
"Hot weather can also increase the amount of pollutants, pollen and mould in the air which can trigger asthma symptoms," he added.
The medical specialist recommended that asthma sufferers carry their "blue reliever inhaler at all times" and keep hydrated. He continued: "If you are worried about the weather or hay fever affecting your asthma, make sure you take your hay fever medicines, carry your blue reliever inhaler at all times and keep taking your regular preventer as prescribed by your doctor.
"We'd advise you to drink lots of water to prevent dehydration and plan any outdoor activities for earlier in the day when the air quality tends to be better."
The warning comes after the Met office explained that temperatures will build across much of the country in the first part of this week, with the southeast getting the hottest weather.
Tuesday (23rd) and Wednesday (24th) are likely to be our hottest days, with temperatures reaching the low to mid-30s.
Unfortunately, the north west is not due to enjoy the same temps, with temperatures staying near normal.
This latest update might as well be called part 456 in WTF Is Going On With The Weather This Summer, as the UK grapples with weather that's swinging freely between shivery rainy weather and blazing heatwaves.
But for now, get your summer dresses out and don't forget your inhaler!
Featured Image Credit: ShutterstockTopics: Life News, Real, Health