
Asthma is a respiratory disease that gets worse in winters and affects millions of individuals worldwide. Asthma can flare up in almost any situation, but it gets worse in winter months. Cold air and dry indoor heating trigger the condition of asthma and make it worse.
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1. Cold Air Triggers Asthma Symptoms
One of the main reasons that asthma triggers in the winter season is because of the cold air. Cold and dry air can make it difficult for individuals to breathe comfortably. When cold air is inhaled it has a bad impact on the lungs and it leads to symptoms like wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. For many people this reaction is accelerated when individuals go outside and experience low temperatures.
2. Use Of Indoor Heating Systems
As temperature drops, the dependency on indoor heating systems increases. The use of central heating, heaters, and other systems increases, and it reduces humidity levels and makes the indoors dry. Dry air triggers the symptoms of asthma and increases the level of coughing, cold, and difficulty in breathing. Indoor heating systems can lead to dust and allergens setting up, and this leads to accelerating symptoms of asthma.
3. Exposure To Respiratory Infections
Winter is the season when colds and flus are the most common. All these problems are dangerous for individuals who already have asthma symptoms. An infection caused by bacteria or infection can increase inflammation and make it harder to breathe and increase the chances of an asthma attack. In addition to these respiratory issues, it increases mucus production, which makes it more difficult for asthma patients to breathe.
4. Allergens In The Air
People often associate allergies with the summer and spring seasons, but winter months also bring specific allergens that can increase asthma symptoms. During the winter months, people tend to spend more time indoors, and their exposure to indoor allergens increases, such as dust mites, mold, pet dander, etc. Cold air can cause the mucous membranes in the nose to dry out, making it easier for allergens to enter the lungs.
5. Increase In Air Quality
Air quality keeps on changing throughout the year. During the winter months, it gets worse due to factors like increased heating and fog. Pollutants like car exhaust and smoke can accumulate, leading to poor air quality that irritates the nose. In wintertime, air pollution reaches a dangerous level. This is especially concerning for individuals that have asthma or other respiratory issues. Poor air quality can trigger asthma symptoms.
Some of the ways to manage cold are:
1. When the temperature is extremely cold, individuals should limit their outdoor activities, especially when the air is a lot drier. Wearing a mask or face mask over the nose can warm up the nose and mouth so that air gets warm before entering.
2. To reduce asthma symptoms due to dry air, individuals should use a humidifier to maintain a balanced level of humidity in the air. The level of indoor moisture should be between 30% and 50%, and this can help reduce irritation in the airways.
3. To reduce the risk of respiratory infections, individuals should practice good hygiene, such as handwashing, and avoid close contact with individuals that are already sick. It is important to maintain a strong immune system to prevent infections.
4. In order to minimize the impact of allergens, individuals that have asthma should clean their homes regularly and wash their bedsheets to remove dust and pet dander. During peak allergy season, make sure that you keep your windows closed.
So, all in all, winter is a difficult time for individuals with asthma, so make sure that you manage all the symptoms associated with it in the right manner.