Asthma Care in Winter: Dos & Don'ts

Dr.Akshay Budhraja, 4 mins read

While winter brings a lot of joy for many, some find it very challenging as it aggravates the symptoms of some diseases. One of these diseases is asthma, which can be described as the narrowing and swelling of airways and the production of extra mucus. People with disease experience breathlessness, cough and mucus production in winter. But why?

There are many culprits to be blamed for this. One of these reasons is that cold air contains triggers such as mold, dust mites, pet dander, etc., which exacerbate asthma symptoms. Another reason is the increased incidences of respiratory infections like colds and flu in winter, which trigger asthma attacks.

So, how can you protect yourself? 

Dos

• Keep yourself warm - One of the best ways is to layer up yourself with warm clothes. Remember to cover your nose and face with a scarf whenever you go outside. Also, drink hot beverages such as hot soups and use room heaters.
• Frequently wash your hands - Washing hands with water and soap frequently in a proper manner is often recommended by doctors to avoid catching viruses. Alcohol-based hand sanitiser could be a good addition near your wash basins. In case of a runny nose, use tissue paper to wipe your nose. Moreover, educate your children about good hygiene practices.
• Go for immunisation - Take vaccinations for flu and pneumonia to keep yourself away from the most common virus strains and prevent worsening symptoms. Also, don't forget to take your asthma medicines and inhaler with you always even if you are not experiencing any symptoms. 
• Prefer indoor exercise - Strenuous exercises such as jogging and running outside can make you feel exhausted and gasping for air, thus triggering breathing problems. Instead, you can go for indoor aerobic activities and breathing exercises to improve lung capacity and symptoms of asthma.
• Stay away from scent and smoke - Stay away from scent products like candles, laundry products and cleaning supplies as their smell can affect asthma patients. You should also be more cautious when entering the kitchen, as sudden and strong fumes and smoke can trigger asthma symptoms. You can use an exhaust fan in your kitchen. Furthermore, quit smoking and stay away from second-hand smoke.
• Choose a good humidifier - Installing a humidifier in winter is a good choice as it makes the indoor air moist and humid. Use distilled or demineralized water and periodically clean your humidifier to prevent the growth of bacteria inside it.
• Breathe through the nose - In winter, always breathe through the nose as the nasal passage moisten the air before it enters the lungs.
• Ensure home hygiene - Regularly clean your home with a vacuum to keep allergens and dust particles at bay. Use a vacuum cleaner with high-efficiency (HEPA) filters to clean every nook and cranny of your home efficiently. And also, remember to cover your mattress and pillows with mite-proof covers.
• Increase your liquid diet - Experts recommend drinking six to eight glasses of water every day. Moreover, you can include soups, herbal teas and juices in your diet plan.
• Maintain a healthy diet - Load your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. Avoid processed food, white flour and extra sugar, as they can stimulate mucus production and block the airways.

Don'ts

• Smoking
• Strenuous outdoor exercises
• Following unhygienic practices
• Mouth breathe
• Contact with sick people

Takeaway!

Asthma is a  debilitating and long-term condition that affects persons of all ages. Above, we've discussed some ways to help you manage asthma symptoms in winter. On top of this, always follow your doctor's directions and medications. 

Also, Read: Effects of Tobacco Consumption on Physical & Mental Health