Weather change affects us a lot. Sometimes, when we are already victims of any preexisting disease, it becomes difficult for us to manage it. But somehow, we have to manage to keep ourselves on the safer side. People suffering from asthma complain about worsening the symptoms more in winter.
Do you know that the winter season worsens the condition? Do you know why it happens? If you have no clue why weather change, especially in the winter season, makes people with asthma face a lot of difficulties, then keep reading.
Here we are discussing it in detail for better understanding. Here we will also share some preventive measures that one can adopt to be safe this season. Let’s get started!
Understand about Asthma!
Asthma is a respiratory disorder that has a major impact on the lungs. People with Asthma experience the worst conditions.
In this condition, the airways get narrow, and inflammation also takes place. It is responsible for producing extra mucus, due to which they face difficulty in breathing. As a result, they produce a whistling sound when they breathe out and experience shortness of breath.
It is not compulsory that every person will suffer from major issues. Some only have minor symptoms. But in the winter season, it is essential to be more conscious of the condition.
Why can be Asthma worse in winter in 2022?
As we have already discussed, in the winter season, people with asthma face a lot of difficulties. This happens because the cold weather is responsible for creating spasms in the lungs. People suffering from asthma have twitchy lungs, so they are more prone to it. Other reasons responsible for worsening the conditions in colder months are as follows:
· Dry outside air is the major culprit.
There is a protective layer of fluid on the airways in the lungs. This protective layer evaporates after exposure to cold air. Due to the evaporation of this protective fluid, the airways get inflamed and irritated, and the condition gets worse.
· Exercising vigorously worsens the condition of asthma in winter:
We all know that to maintain a healthy body, it is important to exercise regularly. But in winter, you need to be sure about your body’s capacity. When you exercise in the winter, your lung capacity expands, but when you start breathing in cold air, your airways become constrained. As a result, it will trigger other symptoms, including cough and breathlessness. People with asthma face major difficulties due to this condition.
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· Respiratory illness:
There is a protective layer of mucus on the airways, and when this layer gets thick, the chances of respiratory infections increase. When you step outside, exactly the same thing happens in the winter season. People are more prone to colds or flu, and those who are suffering from asthma experience a lot of difficulties. The thickening of this mucus layer leads to swelling and irritation of the airways. As a result, shortness of breath or breathlessness issues arise in the winter.
· Central heating, open fires, and wood-burning stoves:
For people suffering from asthma, Central heating, open fires, and wood-burning stoves are not acceptable. Trying to keep yourself away from such surroundings where open fires and wood-burning stoves are available can be difficult. These are known to be the major contributors to worsening the condition. Also, if you have any such space in your surroundings, try to keep it empty.
· Chest infections:
The chances of chest infections are very high in winter. Therefore, it is important that you take care of yourself and also avoid being in such surroundings where you may become the victim of such conditions. If you are facing any difficulty, approach the doctor immediately.
Tips to prevent asthma attacks triggered by cold weather:
There is no permanent solution available to prevent asthma from getting worse in cold weather. But the preventive tips will help you lower the effect. The preventive tips for adapting are as follows:
· Keep yourself hydrated:
Hydration is the primary tip you need to adapt to. We are not saying you should fulfill this with cold water. You can go for hot or warm water or some broth-based soup. You can also try decaffeinated tea to maintain hydration.
· Sanitization is important:
Sanitization is an important part of care for people suffering from asthma. Make sure to wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Also, when you come from outside, do change your clothes. Some bacteria may have taken up residence on your clothes, and by wearing them for an extended period of time, you put yourself at risk.
· Carry your inhaler with you at all times:
In the winter season, it is important that you have your inhaler available to you 24/7. You never know when you need it. Therefore, when you are stepping outside or inside your house, keep it in your pocket or close to you.
· Dress properly in the winter season:
It is important to learn to dress properly in the winter season. Make sure you are maintaining an ambient temperature for your body. Dress warmly, and you can also wear a scarf and gloves along with an extra jacket for it. If it is not important to step outside, try to avoid doing the same.
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· Breathe through your nose when you are outside:
When you are stepping outside, make sure you are breathing through your nose because the air will get warm in the nasal passage, and it will not affect your lungs directly.
· Get your vaccinations:
The flu vaccine is also there, and it is important for you to get it yearly. You can simply reach out to a nearby doctor and get it done.
· Take your medication on schedule:
If your doctor has suggested you take certain medications, be sure to take all of them on time because it is important to keep things under control.
· Get in touch with your doctor:
It is critical that you do not avoid your condition and that you contact your doctor if you have any minor problems. Sometimes, ignoring the condition worsens the case, and controlling it seems to be difficult.
Here we have discussed the common reasons that contribute to worsening the condition of asthma in winter. It is important for you to keep up with your doctor. If you are confused about whom to approach, then visit Jaipur and fix an appointment with Dr. Pankaj Gulati.
He is the best asthma doctor in Jaipur whom you can contact and start your treatment with. He has years of experience in treating such conditions, and you can tell him the condition in detail. For sure, after having treatment from him, you will not face any sort of difficulty at all.
FAQ: (Asthma worse in winter in 2022)
Q.1 – Why does my asthma flare-up in the winter?
Answer – The major reason for flaring up asthma in winter is the cold air. It is dry and responsible for irritating the airways. It is also responsible for producing more mucus, due to which the condition gets worse.
Q.2 – How can I improve my asthma in the winter?
Answer – To improve your asthma condition in winter, it is important for you to keep up with your medication and maintain sanitization. Be sure of all the moves you are taking because sometimes stepping outside ruthlessly can hurt you. Also, if there is any problem arising, approach your doctor immediately.
Q.3 – Does asthma worsen with age?
Answer – Asthma is a chronic lung disease, and there are chances that with age, the condition will get worse. Therefore, it is important to keep up with the treatment plan and go for regular checkups.
Q.4 – Which climate is best for asthma?
Answer – The humidity level must be between 30 and 50% for people who are suffering from asthma. According to research, 68 to 71 degrees Fahrenheit is the ambient temperature for them.
Q.5 – Who is the best asthma doctor in Jaipur?
Answer – Dr. Pankaj Gulati is the best asthma doctor in Jaipur you can approach. He has years of experience in treating patients with asthma.
Q.6 – What are the 3 types of asthma?
Answer – The three types of asthma:-
- Allergic bronchitis: Allergic bronchitis
- Seasonal asthma
- Non-allergic asthma
Q.7 – Can asthma damage your lungs?
Answer – Yes, asthma is responsible for causing damage to the lungs. The cause is irreversible, so it is important to pay attention in the initial stages to control the condition.