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Winter & Asthma

Most people associate seasonal breathing problems with spring and allergies, but for many asthmatics winter is a season that presents special difficulties. Asthmatics feel the effects of both the cold weather outside and the allergen-laden air indoors. Fortunately, with proper management of the condition and some extra measures, people with asthma can endure or even enjoy the winter season.

  1. Outdoors

    • If you live in an area with a cold winters, you know what it's like to have your breath taken away by a gust of wind on a cold, dry day. For the asthmatic, whose lungs are hypersensitive and inflamed, the experience is worse and can trigger the constriction of the bronchial tubes known as bronchospasm. In addition, a seasonal cold or flu can trigger serious asthma attacks. Asthmatics can reduce bronchial irritation outdoors by wearing a scarf or facemask over the nose and mouth and breathing through the nose to warm and humidify the air.

    Prevention

    • Prevention is the key to getting through the winter with asthma, according to an article for WebMed. Be vigilant about taking your regular asthma medications as the winter approaches. Do not become lax because symptoms improve during the warm months.

    Exercise

    • MedicineNet.com recommends avoiding outdoor exercise in winter weather and swimming in a heated indoor pool instead. If you do choose to exercise outdoors, however, speak to your doctor first. He may suggest increases or additions to your medication to help you enjoy outdoor winter activities like skiing or skating, according to Dory Cerny in the Winter 2005 issue of Allergic Living. Always remember to warm up and cool down with strenuous exercise as well.

    Action Plan

    • Health care providers recommend having an asthma action plan for winter weather. An asthma action plan is a written plan made in consultation with your physician. It includes such things as triggers to avoid, symptoms to look out for, a list of your regular medications and what to do in an emergency.

    Indoor Tips

    • Increased time indoors can also cause problems for asthmatics due to the poor quality of indoor air. Mold and dust mites also increase in a tightly sealed building, says Cerny. To reduce indoor allergens, use a HEPA-filtered vacuum on furniture and drapes as well as floors, dust with a damp cloth and do not let anyone smoke in your home. Also avoid smoke indoors from fireplaces or other sources.

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