7 Ways to Control Winter Asthma

Asthma is a long-term respiratory issue that impacts the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs.

There are a number of things that can cause asthma symptoms to worsen throughout the winter. These include indoor allergens, cold, dry air, and respiratory illnesses.

According to the WHO data published in 2020 Asthma Deaths in Nepal reached 5,930 or 3.69% of total deaths.

In this blog post, we will discuss why asthma may be worse in the colder months, what asthma symptoms are in the winter season, and ways to avoid winter asthma flare-ups.

Why is Asthma Worse in the Colder Months?

Generally, there are a few reasons why asthma may be worse during the winter months:

1. Cold, dry air:

Cold, dry air can irritate the airways and make it harder to breathe.

This can be especially problematic for people with asthma, as their airways are already sensitive and prone to irritation.

2. Indoor allergens:

Many people spend more time indoors during the winter, which can expose them to indoor allergens such as dust mites, cockroach droppings, mold, and pet dander.

Asthma symptoms can be triggered in people who are sensitive to allergens.

3. Respiratory infections:

The colder months are also the time of year when respiratory infections like the flu and the common cold are more common. These infections can irritate the airways and trigger asthma symptoms.

These are the asthma symptoms in the winter season:

Asthma flare-ups during the winter months are due to the factors mentioned above, such as cold, dry air, indoor allergens, and respiratory infections.

Some people may experience more coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, sneezing & running nose, and nasal stuffiness during this time of year.

It is important to pay attention to your asthma symptoms and work with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.

Ways To Control Winter Asthma

Here are 7 tips to control asthma in the winter:

1. Avoid triggers

One of the most effective ways to avoid asthma flare-ups is to identify and avoid your triggers.

Common asthma triggers include cold air, allergens, and respiratory infections. By avoiding exposure to these triggers, you can help reduce your risk of asthma flare-ups.

2. Take your medications as prescribed

Follow your treatment plan exactly, and take your medications as directed by your doctor.

This includes routinely taking any long-term control prescriptions and using your inhaler as necessary.

3. Keep your home warm and humid

Cold, dry air can irritate the airways and make asthma symptoms worse.

To help reduce irritation, try to keep your home warm and humid by using a humidifier or keeping a pot of water boiling on the stove.

4. Stay active

Physical activity has the potential to improve lung capacity and alleviate asthma symptoms. However, be sure to warm up slowly and avoid exercising in cold, dry air if possible.

5. Stay healthy:

To help reduce your risk of asthma flare-ups, try to stay healthy by getting enough sleep, eating a well-balanced diet, and washing your hands frequently to avoid getting sick.

6. Dress warmly:

When you go outside in cold weather, be sure to dress warmly to help reduce the chances of asthma symptoms.

For instance, wear a hat, scarf, and gloves to cover your head, neck, and hands, and wear several layers of clothing to help trap heat and keep you warm.

7. Get the Flu and Pneumonia shots.

Respiratory infections like flu & pneumonia can irritate the airways and trigger asthma symptoms. To help reduce your risk of getting the flu and pneumonia, be sure to get the flu and pneumonia shots after consulting with doctors.

Conclusion

Moreover, managing winter asthma requires a combination of taking your medications as prescribed, keeping your home warm and humid, dressing warmly when you go outside, staying active, and staying healthy.

By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of asthma flare-ups and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable winter season.

If you are having difficulty managing your asthma symptoms, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider for additional guidance and support.

Remember, with proper management and care, you can effectively control your asthma and enjoy a better quality of life.