Why cold weather increases COPD Symptoms?
Cold temperatures can make symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) worse because the air is usually drier and cooler, which can irritate the airways and make it more difficult to breathe.
Cold air can also cause the airways to constrict, which can lead to an increase in COPD symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
In addition, the body may work harder to stay warm in cold temperatures, which can put extra strain on the respiratory system.
To help avoid worsening of symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) during cold weather, there are several steps that you can take:
Dress warmly: Wear layers of warm clothing, including a coat, hat, gloves, and scarf, to help keep your body temperature up.
Stay inside: When possible, stay inside during cold weather to limit your exposure to the cold air.
Use a humidifier: Dry air can irritate the airways, so using a humidifier to add moisture to the air can help reduce symptoms of COPD.
Avoid strenuous activities: Cold weather can cause the body to work harder to stay warm, which can put extra strain on the respiratory system. Avoid strenuous activities in cold weather to reduce the risk of worsening COPD symptoms.
Follow your treatment plan: Make sure to take your medications as prescribed and follow your healthcare provider's instructions for managing COPD.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help keep mucus thin and easier to cough up, which can help to reduce COPD symptoms.
Using a handheld nebulizer like our Briutcare nebulizer mesh can help to minimize the symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) during cold weather.
Some common medications that are used in a nebulizer to treat COPD include bronchodilators, which help to open the airways and make it easier to breathe, and inhaled corticosteroids, which can reduce inflammation in the lungs. Using a nebulizer can help to minimize COPD symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, which can be particularly troublesome during cold weather when the air is dry and cold. It's important to always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for using a nebulizer and to use the device as directed.