This post was written by Stacy Butler, NP, PPG – Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
Asthma is a condition in which your airways swell up and narrow, and you may produce extra mucus. This can make it more difficult to breathe and can trigger asthma symptoms, which may include coughing, wheezing (whistling sound), chest tightness or shortness of breath. There are many asthma triggers, and many of these can be worse during the winter season.
Winter asthma triggers
Winter is a season that increases the prevalence of many asthma triggers. For example, sudden weather changes and cold dry air can irritate your lungs, causing you to produce more mucus which flares up your asthma. Being indoors more often can also expose you to other irritants, like pet dander, dust mites, and cigarette smoke. During the winter season, viral respiratory illnesses also peak, which can trigger your asthma and cause increased respiratory symptoms for several weeks.
With the holiday season and the cold weather, many people also tend to overeat during the cold winter months. Eating larger food portions or consuming extra sugar, carbohydrates or spicy and fried foods can trigger reflux. Reflux is a condition in which the body produces excess stomach acid that can back up into your throat and cause irritation which can also trigger asthma and coughing.
Preventing winter flare-ups
To help prevent asthma flare-ups during the winter season, the following can be helpful:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf when outside and breathe through your nose (this warms the air before it moves into your lungs).
- Carry your rescue or emergency inhaler with you at all times.
- Wash your hands often to help prevent respiratory illnesses.
- Stay current with your vaccinations and avoid large crowds.
- Drink extra fluids to keep yourself hydrated (avoid caffeine).
- If pet dander is a trigger: wash your hands after touching the pet, keep the pet out of your bedroom, and use a HEPA air cleaner.
- Take your preventive medication daily as prescribed.
- Eat smaller portions of meals, limit spicy or fried foods, do not eat within two hours of bedtime or lying down. May elevate the head of your bed. If you have increased symptoms of heartburn, coughing or throat clearing, discuss this with your doctor.
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