Current research studies indicate that there aren’t “good” or “bad” areas for asthma as such, but that the prevalence of asthma is fairly similar across New Zealand.
In addition, people have such different individual responses to their environment that it’s almost impossible to predict how a move might affect their condition.
Some people find that their asthma improves for some months or longer after they move, though the asthma may then return to the previous level of severity.
This may be to do with the person’s sensitisation to the environment but it is hard to determine, as it takes some time to become sensitised to a new environment to the point that they develop an allergic response.
If you are thinking of moving to a new place and you know your asthma is affected by triggers such as pollen, it would be advisable to look into how prevalent the trigger is there.
It is also important to consider your indoor environment and how your asthma might be affected by moving to a different house or flat. For example, if your new home is poorly ventilated, damp, has old carpets, or uses unflued gas heating, your asthma may deteriorate.
If the previous owner has had a cat or a dog, bear in mind that allergens from these animals may remain in the house for up to six months.
Moving to a new area or home can also be stressful, and this may have an impact on your symptoms too.
Our advice is to keep monitoring your asthma after you move and make any necessary adjustments in line with your Self Management plan.
If your asthma changes significantly, see a doctor.
You may also wish to make contact with a regional partner in your area as they can provide you with free advice and information about local services.
For more information on allergies or to learn about some common asthma triggers visit the Allergy NZ website.
