Cold temperatures are coming around and with it we start to see more instances of asthma attacks.
Studies confirm it; exertion in cooler weather triggers inflammation of the airways, leaving you wheezing as your body tries to take in more air. Chances are you’re sucking air in through your mouth, delivering cold, dry air into your lungs instead of the air warmed by the blood vessels in your nose. So now that you know you’re not imagining it — your shortness of breath is real — what can you do to manage it before it turns into a full-blown asthma attack?
- Prevention is key. Before a new pattern of cold weather rolls in, work with your primary care doctor to come up with a plan. There are long-term medications you can take to control your asthma and others that will help during a sudden onset. Arm yourself for the coming months.
- If temperatures fall below 10 degrees Fahrenheit, try to stay indoors. When you must go out, cover your nose and mouth with a scarf, which will help warm the air you take in.
- Drink a lot of water. People think dehydration is a summer thing but it’s just as important to stay hydrated through the winter. If you have asthma, it helps you break down and remove the mucus that comes with the colder weather.
- On the home-front, vacuum and dust often to get rid of allergens, and wash your bedding once a week. Avoid sick people — and take all the usual COVID precautions – and other contaminants that might trigger an attack.
- If you know you’re going to be exerting yourself in cooler weather, prepare your body through a warm-up routine and a shot from your inhaler. Keep the inhaler near in case you have trouble breathing outdoors.
- If all else fails, request a consultation with a physician.
Stay safe and healthy this winter!