If you’ve noticed that your (or your child’s) asthma seems to act up when school starts and the weather changes, you’re not imagining it. Even in sunny South Florida, fall and winter bring unique asthma challenges. This blog explains why symptoms flare this time of year and what patients can do to better control their asthma.

Why asthma often gets worse in the fall

In our region, the fall spike in asthma is driven by allergens shifting (ragweed, outdoor molds), respiratory viruses (RSV, influenza, COVID-19), and increased indoor air exposures (dust mites, pet dander, mold).

South Florida allergen snapshot in fall and early winter

Weeds like ragweed dominate late summer through fall. Outdoor molds thrive after rain and yard work. Trees and grasses have different peaks but can overlap.

What patients can do—our fall/winter asthma game plan

A five-pillar control plan: vaccines, consistent controller medication, allergen avoidance, indoor air quality strategies, and a personalized Asthma Action Plan. .

Special tips for families with school-age kids

Make sure schools have updated action plans and inhalers, pre-treat before sports if needed, practice hand hygiene, and prioritize sleep. .

Adults: don’t neglect these stealth triggers

Hidden asthma triggers in adults include dust mites in the bedroom, workplace exposures, heartburn, obesity, and sleep apnea.

Ragweed & weed pollens: how to live your life without hiding inside

Use pollen forecasts, shower/change after exposure, and stay consistent with allergy medications during ragweed season. .

Mold: the fall spoiler we can actually manage

Bag leaves, dry water-damaged materials quickly, and keep indoor humidity between 30–50% to prevent mold growth.

Viruses: set yourself up for a gentler season

Get flu shots early, keep COVID-19 vaccinations current, ask about RSV prevention, and have an asthma sick-day plan.

When to call us (or go to urgent care) 

Seek care if you’re using your rescue inhaler more than every 4 hours, having frequent night symptoms, or showing red zone asthma signs like difficulty speaking or blue lips. .

Checklist: your Fall & Winter Asthma Kit

Asthma action plan, updated inhalers and spacers, vaccines, HVAC filters, humidity monitor, saline rinses, and school/sports kits.

Our approach at Allergy and Asthma Specialists of the Palm Beaches

We provide personalized testing, action plans, environmental coaching, and virus-season strategies to keep patients in control.

Bottom line

Fall and winter bring more asthma triggers, but with the right plan—vaccinations, controller therapy, allergen management, and environmental strategies—patients can stay well controlled.