Asthma exacerbations during Santa Ana winds in southern California

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between Santa Ana wind conditions and visits for asthma at a southern California emergency department. Visits to the emergency department for asthma were analyzed retrospectively to determine whether the incidence increased during Santa Ana wind conditions. These northeasterly winds are common during fall and winter in southern California and belong to a class known as Foehn winds. They are characterized by gusty winds, decreased relative humidity, warm temperatures, and decreased levels of airborne pollutants. During a 4-year period, we noted that emergency department visits for asthma increased (3.12 vs. 2.16 visits per day, P < 0.0001) during SantaAna winds compared with other weather conditions. Asthmatics presenting during Santa Ana winds appeared to be more ill, as judged by higher admission rates (21.9 vs. 18.7%, P < 0.05). These winds were also associated with reduced particulate matter (PM10) counts (P < 0.0001). Although the magnitude of the increase in emergency department visits was small, it occurred at a time when typical inciters of respiratory disease should be minimal. An as yet unidentified factor associated with these winds may be a stimulant for some asthmatics. Similar wind patterns in other localities might affect respiratory disease as well.