As winter intensifies and the mercury drops, the chilly weather compels you to stay in your cosy blankets with your heaters on. Yet, while you’re wrapped around in comfort, you’ve a lot of tissues lying around as you’re constantly coughing and sneezing, while suffering from recurrent cold and flu. For individuals with asthma, this seasonal shift can be far more than just a nuisance. They can trigger severe and frequent symptoms, making winter one of the most challenging times of the year. But what exactly causes asthma to flare up during the colder months, and how can one take proactive steps to manage it?
To understand why asthma symptoms worsen in winter months, OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr Kiran Dhake, Corporate Wellness Physician and Imaging Specialist, Mumbai. He explains, "The winter season can exaggerate asthma symptoms for multiple reasons, primarily due to environmental and physiological changes." Factors such as cold, dry air, indoor heating, and seasonal illnesses make asthma management more challenging. Here’s a closer look at why winter worsens asthma symptoms and what you can do to stay ahead.
Why Winter Worsens Asthma Symptoms
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Cold, Dry Air
According to Dr Dhake, "Cold air can irritate the airways, causing them to tighten and narrow, leading to symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath." The dryness of cold air further irritates the respiratory tract, increasing airway sensitivity and inflammation.
Indoor Heating Systems
Dr Dhake notes, "People tend to spend more time indoors in centrally heated environments during winter. The dry air from heating systems can irritate the throat and nasal passages, worsening asthma symptoms." Additionally, heating system ducts may circulate dust, allergens, and pet dander, all of which can trigger asthma.
Increased Risk of Respiratory Illnesses
"Winter is a peak season for respiratory infections," says Dr Dhake. Such infections can cause swelling in the airways, making asthma symptoms more severe.
Poor Air Quality
Dr Dhake highlights, "Temperature inversion during winter traps pollutants close to the ground, worsening air quality. The increased use of heating systems like wood-burning stoves and fireplaces adds particulate matter and other pollutants to the air, aggravating asthma."
Reduced Vitamin D Levels
"Limited sunlight during winter can lower vitamin D levels," explains Dr Dhake. "This may weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to respiratory allergies, contributing to airway inflammation."
How to Combat Winter Asthma Challenges
Dr Dhake offers practical strategies to manage asthma during the colder months:
Dress Warmly
"Wearing a scarf or mask over your nose and mouth when venturing outside helps warm and humidify the air, reducing airway irritation," suggests Dr Dhake. Layered clothing also helps maintain body temperature without triggering asthma.
Use a Humidifier
"A humidifier can combat the dry indoor air caused by heating systems, keeping airways moist and reducing irritation," says Dr Dhake. He advises regular cleaning of humidifiers to prevent mould and bacterial growth.
Stay on Top of Medication
"It’s essential to use prescribed asthma medications, including maintenance and rescue inhalers, particularly during winter," emphasises Dr Dhake. Carrying inhalers when outdoors is crucial.
Practice Good Hygiene
"Wash your hands frequently, avoid contact with sick individuals, and consider getting a flu vaccination to prevent respiratory infections," recommends Dr Dhake.
Also read: What Are the Different Types of Asthma and How Can They Be Treated
Clean Your Indoor Environment
"Reduce exposure to indoor allergens by cleaning regularly, using allergen-proof covers, and washing bed linens in hot water," advises Dr Dhake. Installing HEPA filters can also help minimise triggers.
Track Air Quality
Dr Dhake suggests monitoring local air quality and avoiding outdoor activities when pollution levels are high. "On poor air quality days, limit physical exertion and stay indoors."
Stay Active Indoors
"Exercise is vital for asthma management, but winter weather can make outdoor activities difficult," notes Dr Dhake. Indoor exercises such as yoga or swimming in a heated pool are excellent alternatives.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
"Proper ventilation can help flush out indoor pollutants and allergens," says Dr Dhake. Opening windows for short intervals and using extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms can improve air quality.
Conclusion
Dr Dhake concludes, "Winter can pose numerous challenges for those with asthma, but proactive measures can make a significant difference." By staying warm, maintaining hygiene, using humidifiers, monitoring air quality, and adhering to prescribed medication, individuals with asthma can effectively manage their symptoms and enjoy the winter season with fewer disruptions to their health.