Seven strategies for preventing asthma episodes in the winter.
Comfy blankets. Cocoa with melted marshmallows. Days off school because of the snow. Despite its negative reputation, winter actually has a lot going for it. However, the colder months can bring additional stress if you or a loved one suffers from asthma. Some people are more susceptible to having asthma episodes as the temperature drops.
There are ways to make the colder months more bearable, though, with a bit of forethought.
Dangerous weather and asthma in the winter
The airways become inflamed and constricted due to asthma. The asthma symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing, can be exacerbated by exposure to triggers. Many people's asthma is triggered by exposure to the chilly air.
When it comes to asthma, the winter months can be challenging because:
Airway irritation from the cold: "Cold air irritates. The mucus in your airways may thicken in response to the cold weather, making breathing more difficult. When exposed to cold, the muscles around the airway might tighten, further restricting airflow.
Seasonally, winter is known for its dry air. The same holds true indoors, where a working furnace warms the air. Dry air, like cold air, can irritate the respiratory system.
Season of flu: "Winter is also a time when people are more likely to be exposed to cold and flu viruses." Asthma attacks can occur in children with viral-induced asthma if they contract a respiratory virus.
When the temperature drops, here are seven tips for managing your asthma.
Even if you have asthma, you shouldn't despair about the coming cold weather. Asthma episodes are more likely to occur as the temperature drops, but there are things you can do to protect yourself.
1 Restriction of Exposure
If your child has a persistent cough whenever cold air enters their lungs, you should limit their time spent in the great outdoors. Patients to spend as little time outside as possible.
The second piece of advice is: for medication.
Inhalers and other asthma treatments should be used as directed at all times. This is valid year-round but hits a new high in the winter.
When you or your kid is feeling well, taking inhaled steroids daily is vital to minimize inflammation. This is especially true if you or your child is particularly vulnerable to the cold during the winter.
3, dress warmly
Wrapping your child in a warm scarf and tying it over their mouth and nose might help them breathe more manageable in the cold and dry air.
4, Add Water, and You're Done!
An effective way to restore some moisture to dry winter air is to use a humidifier before bed. Mould-in humidifiers can aggravate asthma, so keep them clean. Doctors also recommend using saline nasal sprays to help relieve dry nasal passages.
5, keep healthy
Stay away from sick individuals if you don't want to catch a cold or the flu. Establish regular hand washing as part of your routine to reduce the spread of illness.
6. Modify your plans
A common symptom of exercise-induced asthma is a heightened sensitivity to cold temperatures. When venturing out into the cold, try to reduce your activity level.
7 - Seek assistance
Doctors recommend seeking medical advice from a physician or pediatrician if seasonal changes cause asthmatic concerns. Please feel free to contact us at any time if you have any inquiries or concerns; we are here to assist you in controlling your symptoms so that you may fully appreciate the season.
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