When the air turns crisp, some people welcome the change of seasons. But if you have asthma, COPD or other respiratory conditions, you may find that colder weather causes breathing challenges. That’s because cold air is often dry, and when you breathe it in, it can irritate and constrict your airways. For people with asthma, this may lead to inflammation that makes it harder to breathe. Those with COPD may notice increased shortness of breath, fatigue or more frequent flare-ups.

Add in the fact that winter brings an uptick in colds, flu and other respiratory infections, and it’s easy to see why breathing problems tend to get worse when the weather turns cold. Even staying indoors isn’t ideal. Dry, heated air can also aggravate your lungs, and allergens like dust, pet dander and mold can become more bothersome when you spend a lot of time inside.

By following these tips, you can help keep flare-ups at bay and breathe easier all season long:

• Warm and humidify the air you breathe. Cover your nose and mouth with a scarf, mask or gaiter when you head outside. This warms and moistens the air before it reaches your lungs. Breathing through your nose instead of your mouth also helps. Indoors, a humidifier can make the air easier on your lungs, but keep it clean to prevent mold and bacteria from growing.
• Stick with your medication and action plan. Take your prescribed medications, even if you’re feeling well. Skipping doses can make symptoms creep back. Review your action plan with your healthcare provider so you know what steps to take if symptoms worsen. Always keep your quick-relief inhaler or rescue medication within easy reach.
• Avoid known triggers. When it’s very cold or windy, limit your time outdoors. Avoid smoke from cigarettes, wood stoves or fireplaces, which can all irritate your lungs. Reduce dust and allergens by vacuuming regularly, washing bedding in hot water and keeping pets out of your bedroom. Check local air quality reports and try to stay indoors when pollution levels are high.
• Be smart about exercise. Regular physical activity is important for lung health, but cold temperatures can make outdoor workouts risky. On very cold days, consider exercising indoors. If you prefer to walk or jog outside, wear a face covering and warm up slowly to give your lungs time to adjust.
• Stay up to date on vaccines and doctor visits. Respiratory infections can quickly lead to complications in people with asthma or COPD. Get your annual flu shot, and talk to your doctor about whether you should get pneumonia or COVID-19 vaccines. Schedule regular checkups to monitor your condition and refill medications before you run out.
• Know when to seek help. If you notice your symptoms worsening—such as more wheezing, coughing or difficulty breathing—or if your usual medication doesn’t bring relief, follow your action plan or call your doctor. Getting help early can often prevent a mild flare-up from becoming a serious health issue.

With these tips, you can keep your lungs healthier, prevent flare-ups and enjoy the season without worrying about how cold, dry air will affect your breathing.

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