Cold weather can exacerbate symptoms for many people living with a chronic respiratory condition like COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) or asthma. There are a number of reasons for this. Breathing cold air causes the airways to narrow and generates more mucus which can make it harder to breathe. It can also irritate your airways, leading to an increase in wheezing, breathlessness or coughing.
When the weather is cold, we tend to spend more time indoors with other people, making it easier for germs to spread. The fact that cold temperatures weaken the immune system only adds to the risk of respiratory infections such as colds and flu.
How to stay well and look after your lungs in cold weather
It is important for all of us to look after our respiratory health during cold weather, but particularly those who have been diagnosed with a chronic condition. By taking some simple precautions you can help to manage your symptoms and reduce the risk of becoming seriously ill over the winter. Dr Shalin Diwanji recommends:
- Dress for the weather: It’s advisable to keep an eye on the weather forecast and dress for the conditions. Thermals are a good idea to keep you warm without adding too much bulk and try wearing several thin layers rather than a single heavy garment. Remember to wear sturdy, water resistant shoes or waterproofs if it’s raining. A scarf worn loosely over your nose and mouth helps to warm cold air before it reaches your lungs, which reduces the chances of breathlessness and wheezing.
- Stay inside during particularly cold conditions: While it’s not always possible if you have work or family commitments, if you can stay indoors when the air is very cold or windy or there is high air pollution, it is advisable to do so. This avoids exposing your lungs and airways to too much risk of irritation and reduces the chances of developing a cough or wheeziness.
- Keep your home warm and well-ventilated: The cost of living, plus environmental concerns have caused many of us to turn down the thermostat inside our homes and workplaces. It is advisable if you have a respiratory condition to heat your home to a minimum of 18 degrees and to use a humidifier if the air is very dry. Ventilate your home by opening the windows for a short time every day to reduce the risk of mould and damp.
- Manage your condition effectively: Your doctor or respiratory consultant can advise you on the best way to do this but some general tips include: making sure you take your medication regularly and keeping any inhalers with you; eating a healthy balanced diet to maintain your overall health and immunity; and staying active to maintain good circulation and strengthen your lungs. During very cold weather, it’s a good idea to avoid exercising outdoors but in general a gentle walk if you are wrapped up warmly will support both physical and mental health.
- Keep well-hydrated: It’s often easier to remember to drink enough water during the summer when warm weather can make us feel thirsty. But it’s important to stay hydrated all year round. Drinking enough water helps to prevent mucus becoming too thick and sticky, making it easier to clear your airways so aim for 6-8 glasses a day.
- Protect yourself against infection: It’s important to have your flu vaccination and any other vaccines that are recommended by your doctor. Wash your hands regularly and avoid crowded spaces, if you can, to minimise your risk of infection.
Winter Respiratory Conditions – FAQs
Chronic respiratory diseases affect the airways and structures of the lung. They include: COPD, asthma, occupational lung diseases like asbestosis and silicosis, and pulmonary hypertension which is high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries.
NHS England recommends that everyone should consider taking a Vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter to compensate for lower sunshine levels in the Northern Hemisphere.
Stress can be a contributory factor to the worsening of symptoms in people with long-term respiratory conditions. If you can, build in time for rest and relaxation and make sure you get enough sleep.
Stress can be a contributory factor to the worsening of symptoms in people with long-term respiratory conditions. If you can, build in time for rest and relaxation and make sure you get enough sleep.
Contact us for more information and advice on managing chronic respiratory conditions, including how to stay well over winter.
Leading Respiratory Consultant in London
Dr Shalin Diwanji is a specialist in Respiratory Medicine offering personalised consultations and treatment at multiple easily accessible locations.
Visit one of his clinics today to receive top-quality care for a wide range of respiratory conditions.
The Harley Street Clinic – Devonshire Diagnostic Centre, 16 Devonshire St, London, W1G 7AF
The Platinum Medical Center – 15-17 Lodge Road, London, NW8 7JA
Cromwell Hospital – 164-178 Cromwell Rd, London, SW5 0TU
London Digestive Center – 41 Welbeck street, London, W1G 8EA
Syon Clinic – 941 Great West Road, Brentford, TW8 9DU
The Clementine Churchill Hospital – Sudbury Hill, Harrow, HA1 3RX
Department of Respiratory Medicine – Level 6, Northwick Park Hospital, Harrow HA1 3UJ
Department of Respiratory Medicine – Level 8, Ealing Hospital, Southall UB1 3HW