Written by Dr. Aisha Harris
When the temperature drops in Michigan, many people with asthma or COPD feel it immediately. So, keeping asthma and COPD under control during the cold temperatures is important to prevent complications and hospitalizations.
Cold air is dry, harsh and can trigger the airways to tighten, which makes breathing more difficult. Asthma and COPD flares-ups commonly happen in the wintertime because of the change in weather conditions.
Cold air causes bronchospasm or the muscles around the airways to tighten, while the dry air impacts the lung tissue. This combination causes airways to be more sensitive in the wintertime which causes more mucus production followed by coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath the can lead to a full flare.
There are steps to take to help prevent flares-ups, protect the lungs, and stay healthier during the winter.
- Decreasing the exposure triggers like smoke, environmental allergies, and viral infections is one way to help be preventive and proactive.
- Warm the air you breathe by wearing a scarf or cold weather mask over your mouth and nose.
- Consider using your rescue inhaler before going outside if you find you have difficulty breathing in cold weather temperatures.
- Remember to be consistent with the use of your maintenance inhaler, if you have one, because missing doses can lead to more flare-ups.
- Do not ignore a lingering cough or wheeze from a viral infection. Reach out to your doctor so you can get early treatment if necessary.
- Know your action plan for various symptoms and medications to help manage your asthma and COPD-related symptoms.
Dr. Aisha Harris (above) warns readers that asthma and COPD flares-ups commonly happen in the wintertime because of the change in weather conditions.
Living with asthma or COPD during a Michigan winter isn’t easy, but it is manageable. Small changes can keep your lungs healthier and help you stay out of the hospital. Your breathing matters. If you have asthma or COPD, take the time to understand your triggers, options and plan for your medical problem so you can breathe a little easier and be healthier overall.
Written by Dr. Aisha Harris, MD.
Dr. Harris is a Flint native and board-certified family medicine doctor at Harris Family Health in Flint, Michigan. Harris Family Health is a membership-based clinic that provides personalized and full primary care to adults and children. Learn more about Harris Family Health by visiting www.harrisfamilyhealth.com.
Feel free to submit health questions to Dr. Harris via theflintcouriernews@gmail.com.
