4 breathing problems in cold weather
In cold weather, runny nose or cough are not uncommon.
However, people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should be especially careful.
This disease, which affects 4% of women and 6% of men, is characterized by bronchitis, asthma and emphysema. In winter, COPD patients are twice as likely to suffer from shortness of breath and a painful cough.
How to breathe properly?
Constriction of vessels and bronchi from cold air occurs in patients with COPD who already have impaired lung function, have chronic cough and shortness of breath.
People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease cannot be cured, but the unpleasant symptoms of their disease can be alleviated during the cold season.
Problem: cold makes breathing problems worse
Cold causes bronchospasm and shortness of breath in COPD patients. In addition, some patients react to hot dry air in heated rooms, and others to dust.
Physical activity (walking) in the cold outside, accompanied by inhalation of polluted air, can also lead to worsening of symptoms, and any worsening can lead to hospitalization.
Solution
First, minimize your time outdoors in sub-zero temperatures. Talk to your doctor about the possible use of bronchodilators, which widen the bronchi and help you breathe easier.
Try not to walk in the cold too quickly, as rapid inhalation of cold air will make the problem worse. If possible, use a mask on the street or cover your nose and mouth with a scarf.
Problem: Cold makes COPD symptoms worse
In patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the risk of complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis is much higher with a common cold , than in healthy people.
The fact that inflamed airways secrete large amounts of mucus allows bacteria to multiply actively. Sometimes these complications can be fatal.
Solution
When progressive shortness of breath, fever and chest pains occur, you should immediately consult a doctor. If complications develop, your doctor may recommend antibiotics.
Be alert: limit contact with those who have a cold, wear a mask in public places, get vaccinated against flu, drink plenty of water to regulate mucus secretion, avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Problem: reduced physical activity in the cold
Patients with COPD are recommended to exercise all year round, as exercise helps to overcome breathing problems, improve the work of the heart and muscles .
However, sports activities may be too limited on the coldest winter days and on slippery streets. The development of asthmatic symptoms is possible, as rapid breathing promotes the evaporation of fluids from the body and contraction of the cold-responsive bronchi.
Solution
If you feel bad exercising in the cold, do it in the gym, not on the street. If this is not possible, indulge in a long walk in a warm shopping center, purchase controversial equipment such as an exercise bike for the home, engage in video lessons.
Problem: indoor air can trigger allergies and asthma
The quality of the air circulating through the ventilation leaves much to be desired – it contains dust, bacteria and fungi. This can cause an allergic reaction or an asthma attack, which manifests itself in the form of shortness of breath and coughing.
Too dry and warm air disrupts the humidification of the respiratory tract, causing coughing.
Solution
Avoid air humidifiers because they may contain infection despite their cleaning quality. Stoves and fireplaces are dangerous: you can get sick from the smoky air. Also beware of staying for a long time in cellars and basements – there is mold.
