When the days grow short and the cold winds begin to blow, people with asthma often find themselves experiencing more frequent attacks. But while the reasons for the increase in winter asthma attacks may seem simple enough, they can make asthma worse in the winter for many people.
Cold Air and Asthma
According to the website Healthline, when temperatures drop, the lungs are affected in several ways. First, the low-humidity cold air dries out the thin layer of protective fluid in the lungs, causing them to become irritated and swollen. The cold air also increases histamine production, which can trigger an asthma attack in the winter months. Finally, mucus production in the lungs not only increases in cold weather, but it is thicker and stickier than it is during warmer weather and increases your likelihood of contracting a cold or similar infection.
With the problems caused by cold air, it may seem like the solution for people with asthma would be to stay indoors as much as possible. However, staying inside comes with its own set of issues.
Asthma and the Great Indoors
Unfortunately, being indoors during the winter can also cause asthma attacks. Trapped indoor air often contains raised levels of allergens such as dust, dirt, mites, and pet dander, as well as viruses and bacteria – any of which can trigger an attack. What’s a person to do?
Managing Asthma in Winter
While it seems like there is no hope – can’t go out, can’t stay in, can’t live in a bubble – there are proven ways to minimize the likelihood of an asthma attack in winter.
First, learn what your winter asthma triggers are and take steps to mitigate their presence. This can be accomplished by:
- Keeping the house cool (not cold) and its humidity low
- Limiting exposure to pets
- Using mattress covers and changing bed linens frequently
- Performing an energy audit to identify drafts and leaks and sealing them
- Practicing good health habits by regularly washing hands, avoiding those who are ill, and eating a proper diet
- Getting a flu shot
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| Cold winter weather can exacerbate asthma symptoms by irritating the lungs and thickening mucus. Source: utah.gov |
Second, use common sense when you must go outdoors. Use a scarf or other item to cover your face to take some of the chill out of the air. If your daily exercise routine takes you outside, allow plenty of time to warm up, and dress appropriately for the weather.
Third, have a plan. Be prepared in the event of an asthma attack. In addition to keeping your asthma inhaler handy, make sure you continue to take your prescribed medications, even if you are feeling well. If you suspect your current medications are not performing as they should, talk to your doctor about changing. Combination asthma treatments, such as the Advair Diskus, have been shown to be effective when others have failed.
Though cold weather is inevitable, asthma in winter doesn’t have to be. By monitoring your indoor environs, being diligent about your medications, and using smart health practices, you should be able to breathe easier all season long.
