Why Is Air Quality Worse During Summer? (And How to Breathe Easier)
During the summer months, many people notice it becomes harder to breathe comfortably—especially on hot, humid days. But why is air quality worse in the summer, and what can you do about it?
From rising ozone levels to increased pollution, summer conditions can significantly impact the air you breathe. For older adults, outdoor workers, athletes, and anyone with respiratory concerns, understanding these changes is key to protecting your health and energy levels.
Why Summer Air Quality Gets Worse
Think of the atmosphere like a giant oven. During the summer, heat and sunlight trigger chemical reactions that “cook” pollutants in the air—leading to poor air quality.
Here’s what’s happening:
- Increased sunlight and heat cause chemical reactions between pollutants
- Ground-level ozone forms, which is harmful to breathe
- Humidity traps pollutants, making the air feel heavier
- Vehicle emissions increase due to higher travel and activity levels
This combination creates what experts often call a “chemical soup” of ozone, pollen, mold, and other airborne irritants.
While ozone high in the atmosphere protects us from harmful UV rays, ground-level ozone is a toxic gas that can irritate the lungs and make breathing more difficult.
Why Oxygen Levels Matter
The air we breathe contains about 21% oxygen, which your body relies on for:
- Producing energy from food
- Supporting brain and organ function
- Repairing and replacing cells
- Maintaining endurance and stamina
When air quality declines, your body has to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. This can leave you feeling:
- Fatigued
- Short of breath
- Sluggish or low on energy
Over time, poor air quality may also contribute to respiratory irritation or illness—especially in sensitive individuals.
How Air Quality Is Measured (AQI Explained)
Air quality is tracked using the Air Quality Index (AQI), developed by the Environmental Protection Agency.
The AQI measures pollutants such as:
- Ozone
- Carbon monoxide
- Nitrogen dioxide
- Sulfur dioxide
- Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10)
AQI Scale Breakdown:
- 0–50: Good air quality
- 51–100: Moderate
- 101–150: Unhealthy for sensitive groups
- 151–200: Unhealthy
- 201–300: Very unhealthy
- 301–500: Hazardous
The higher the AQI, the greater the health risk—especially during hot summer days when ozone levels spike.
Symptoms of Poor Air Quality
Breathing polluted air can affect almost anyone, not just those with existing conditions.
Common symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Coughing or wheezing
- Fatigue or low energy
- Irritated eyes, nose, or throat
People with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory issues may experience more severe symptoms.
Which Areas Have the Worst Summer Air Quality?
According to the American Lung Association, some regions consistently rank among the worst for air pollution.
These often include:
- California (especially Los Angeles and Central Valley)
- Texas
- Pennsylvania
- Oregon
- Washington State
Urban areas with heavy traffic, industrial activity, and warm climates tend to experience the highest pollution levels during summer.
How to Breathe Easier During Summer
While you can’t control outdoor air quality, you can take steps to reduce exposure and support your breathing.
Practical Tips:
- Check daily AQI forecasts before heading outside
- Avoid peak heat hours (typically mid-afternoon)
- Exercise in the morning or evening when air is cleaner
- Stay indoors on high pollution days
- Use air purifiers indoors to improve air quality
Supporting Oxygen Intake
When poor air quality leaves you feeling run down or short of breath, supplemental oxygen can help support your body’s oxygen needs—especially during:
- Outdoor activity
- Travel
- High heat or humidity
- Periods of fatigue
It can be a convenient option for maintaining energy and helping you feel more comfortable when air quality isn’t ideal.
How To Breathe Easier During The Summer Months
If you are someone who experiences breathing issues from poor air quality during the summer, try to plan your daily outdoor activities during the morning or evening hours when the heat and humidity is generally at its lowest. You can also plan ahead by using an online resource to check the air quality in your area. A good resource to use is AIRNOW.gov, a website run by the EPA that provides daily updated and easy to understand air quality information about your area including current air quality, forecasts and important air quality announcements.
In addition, you can also fight the symptoms of poor air quality by using portable supplemental oxygen like Boost Oxygen. Boost Oxygen is pure oxygen in affordable and convenient canisters. It’s portable “oxygen to go” for recovery from shortness of breath in the heat and humidity of the stagnant and sometimes polluted air. Boost Oxygen is perfect for places or activities you might need pure oxygen including the beach, camping, exercise like outdoor running, hiking or biking and sports like basketball and tennis.
