Asthma is a chronic condition that doesn’t stop in the winter. In some situations, asthma symptoms may actually intensify at this time of year. Dr. Maria Swetech here, and in this post, I’d like to highlight some common asthma triggers that may appear during winter and point out some ways to be cautious about exposures for asthma sufferers.
KNOW YOUR WINTER ASTHMA TRIGGERS – LET’S “CLEAR THE AIR”
We often encourage patients who struggle with asthma symptoms, to set home environments that are conducive to their best respiratory outcomes by eliminating potential respiratory triggers. In the winter, it can become difficult to avoid some triggers given factors that lie out of our controls, but little changes can often go long ways. If someone with asthma is spending time in the traditionally cold climates during winter, they are likely to encounter conditions that can exacerbate the chronic inflammation of airways, such as:
- Cold air: Although the winter is often more of a forgiving time of year with regards to environmental allergies, the cold air can irritate airways and lead to inflammation that can exacerbate symptoms.
- Dry air: Indoor environments that are heated typically tend to hold low humidity, which can lead to asthma symptom exacerbation. This can present some complex challenges, though, because using a tool to counter the dry air like a humidifier can sometimes lead to excess collection of moisture, and then damp/muggy/moldy conditions can also worsen asthma symptoms—so there is often a tricky balance in this regard.
- Carpeting/spending more time indoors: Spending time indoors–particularly in homes with wall-to-wall carpeting can increase exposures to dust mites and other allergens that could lead to asthma flares. Additionally of note, having some pets spend more time indoors can also play a roll in the same regard (even if the cute buddy is hypoallergenic). Proper vacuuming, use of air filters in some cases, and specific cleaning techniques can be helpful.
- Exercising in cold weather: Though exercise is an important component of overall health, sometimes exercise-induced symptoms can become worse when one is outside in the elements. Appropriate use of scarves or masks can be helpful in some cases. Otherwise possibly planning for activities to take place during warmer parts of the day might provide benefit.
- Candles/smoke/strong scents: Use of indoor fireplaces and candles can often be taxing on the respiratory system of someone who has asthma. Appropriate ventilation and/or avoiding use of candles, especially scented types, can be of benefit asthma sufferers.
- Cleaning supplies: Many cleaning supplies including those that are fragranced can be irritating to asthmatics. Carefully selecting options that are asthmatic-friendly can be helpful for some people.
- Respiratory infections (including viral and bacterial): Respiratory infections such as colds and influenza are common in the winter and these infections can worsen asthma symptoms. Practicing proper hand hygiene, maintaining good sleep habits, prioritizing intake of good nutrition/appropriate hydration, and avoiding exposure to others that are ill when possible can often help reduce respiratory illnesses.
ASTHMA TREATMENT FROM DR. MARIA SWETECH TO HELP “EASE THE WHEEZE”
Treatment of asthma is multifaceted and prioritizing caution with regards to environment and exposures can be a large part of asthma management.
Get support for your asthma or other chronic condition from me, Dr. Maria Swetech. I am an empathetic family medicine physician in Clinton Township, MI, and take a holistic approach to medicine when possible, providing preventive care that focuses on overall body wellness. We would be honored to care for you if you would like to come see us in our office. Please of course be aware that none of the information contained on our site is official medical advice.
