Can Running in Freezing Weather Damage Your Lungs?

During the winter, many people tend to exercise inside or take a break from their daily workout. To diehard runners, freezing cold temperatures don't get in the way of a good workout. Running in the cold requires planning and preparation to stay safe and healthy, mainly through proper dress. In most cases, however, winter exercise will not damage your lungs.

Healthy Runners

• Running in freezing temperatures does not damage the lungs of heathy people, according to University of Louisville exercise physiologist Kara Gallagher. You might feel some uncomfortable burning in the lungs and chest because the air is cold, but this is not dangerous. If the burning sensation bothers you, run on a treadmill or indoor track on very cold days. Talk to your doctor about any concerns about outdoor winter exercise and how it relates to your health.

Chronic Lung Conditions

• People who have chronic respiratory illnesses or lung conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma are likely to have trouble running or exercising in the freezing cold. These conditions are characterized by inflammation of the airways, and can cause a variety of symptoms ranging from coughing and wheezing to shortness of breath. A 2006 issue of the "European Respiratory Review" showed that fewer people with COPD were admitted to the hospital when they had advanced alerts of cold weather. The automated phone warnings helped COPD sufferers plan ahead to stay indoors during the inclement weather, thus avoiding further lung damage or irritation.

Appropriate Dress

• Dress appropriately when running in the cold to keep safe and to prevent lung irritation. Wear layers that you can take off as you warm up. Cover your nose and mouth with a scarf or mask. In addition to preventing frostbite, this additional layer warms the ambient air before it reaches your lungs. The warming of the air can prevent the burning sensation, and may also reduce symptoms of asthma or COPD attacks.

Route Adjustment

• Alter your winter route to avoid running into the wind. Keeping the wind at your back delivers less of an icy blast of air to your respiratory system than facing it head on. If running with the wind behind you during your entire workout is unavoidable, try to face the wind during the latter half of your run and slow your pace. This way, the windchill is not as great.