Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of people around the world.1 For those living with asthma and located in regions with colder temperatures throughout the winter months, this can often cause increased concerns, as cold and dry weather conditions can increase the potential for exacerbations. The combination of pre-existing issues resulting from asthma, paired with the potential complications resulting from cold temperatures, could increase the potential of experiencing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
Managing asthma in the winter requires a proactive approach. This means understanding triggers, regularly monitoring symptoms as they occur, and having an action plan in place in the event that exacerbations happen. With a proactive approach in mind, people with asthma can enjoy the winter months while keeping their symptoms under control.
If you want to learn more, sign up for our FREE one-hour webinar, where we will explore how the cold winter months can affect those living with asthma or COPD. The session will also provide a series of tips and share information on what you could do to take charge of your respiratory condition and breathe better this winter.
The Impact of the Winter Season on Asthma
Cold Weather: There are several reasons why the winter season may present an increased occurrence of symptoms when compared to other seasons. One of the most common reasons is the cold, dry air. The temperature throughout the months of November through March can often be extremely cold, which can cause inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which makes it more difficult for air to flow in and out of the lungs.2 While this can happen to anyone, this can be especially concerning for those living with pre-existing respiratory condition such as asthma.
Cold and Flu: Another important factor to consider is that in the winter months, respiratory viruses such as the common cold and flu are more prevalent. While generally short-lasting, these common viruses which generally tend to spike in February, can add an additional barrier, as they create the potential for exacerbations for those living with pre-existing respiratory illness.3
Allergens: As the weather remains cold and the days become shorter, many people enjoy staying inside the comfort of their own home. While this may be a great way to avoid the cold air, this may also create the potential for an increase in indoor allergens, such as mold and dust mites, again creating the potential for an increase in symptoms.
What Actions Could You Take Which May Help?
Keep your living space clean: With an increase in the potential for indoor allergens during the winter months, it is important to keep your living space clean. This can help mitigate the risk of exacerbations triggered by these allergens.
Use a humidifier indoors: Dry air can worsen asthma symptoms, so using a humidifier may help keep the air moist and make it easier to breathe.
Find new ways to stay active: Exercising in the winter months can sometimes be a challenge, but it may also offer benefits. Regardless of where you exercise it is always important to warm-up and ease your way into things. If the temperature is too cold, it may be a good idea to consider exercising indoors.
If you're going outside, bundle up: It's important to stay warm in the cold, winter weather. Make sure to dress appropriately when going outside, to help ensure you are prepared. If it is too cold outside, stay indoors!
Create or follow your asthma action plan: If you have an asthma action plan, it is important to follow it carefully to help manage your symptoms.
Practice proper hygiene: Washing your hands thoroughly and frequently can be a great preventative measure. By practicing good hygiene, it can help to lower the risk of contracting the common cold and flu, both of which can cause increase flare-ups for those living with asthma.
Stay up to date on vaccinations: Getting vaccinated against the flu and other respiratory infections can be a valuable preventative measure.
Have your medication by your side: If you have been prescribed an inhaler by your healthcare provider, it is important to always have it with you, using it as prescribed or as needed. When using an inhaler, it is also important to consider using a chamber, as they can help you to receive the most out of your medication.4,5 Options like the AeroChamber2go* chamber exist, which can help to make bringing your inhaler and chamber on-the-go easier!
