Winter Asthma - Why Asthma Is Worse in Winter

For many people, asthma attacks may happen more often in the winter. Winter poses two difficulties for those who have asthma. One is that they stay indoors more often. The frigid weather is the other. The likelihood of breathing in asthma triggers-containing air indoors is very high. This air may be contaminated by mold, dust mites, pet dander, or even fireplace embers—anyone who steps outside risks having an asthma attack by breathing in the chilly air. Winter can be challenging for patients with asthma and others around them because of this.

Why Asthma is More Common During Winter

The winter periods significantly increase the chances of asthma attacks for those that are asthmatic. This is why most people recommend having a 24-hour ER nearby or understanding how to get to the nearest urgent care center. The winter months are notorious for more attacks for the following reasons.

Cold and dry air: The air outside during winter is typically very cold and very dry. A thin layer of fluid protects airways in the lungs. When exposed to cold and dry air, the fluid layer tends to evaporate, increasing the chances of irritation and adverse reactions and inflammations that cause asthma.

Triggers indoors: Given the cold air outside and the unpleasant weather, the winter months are often spent indoors. Staying indoors for such long periods increases the chances of one breathing in air with the triggers that cause asthma. For instance, the indoor air might contain dust, mold, or pet dander, irritating the throat and increasing the chances of irritation and inflammation.

Respiratory illness: The airways are also protected by a layer of mucus. When it gets cold outside, the layer of mucus thickens, increasing the chances of one developing respiratory illnesses and infections like the common cold and flu. These infections might lead to swelling and irritation of the airways, triggering an asthma attack.

Handling Asthma in the Winter

To prevent frequent visits to a Waco emergency room, one must know how to manage asthma during the winter months. Inhaling something that triggers your asthma causes your airways to become tight and clogged with mucus. You may cough, wheeze, and struggle to catch your breath. Preventing attacks during the winter months calls for one to be able to manage exposure to triggers. Some potential solutions include ensuring proper aeration and keeping the house cool and dry.

Using the right types of bedding and bedding covers. These might end up reducing mites if dust mites are an issue. Having a dog or cat around the home might trigger asthma. Keep the pets outside the bedroom to reduce the chances of an attack at night.

Even with these precautions, attacks might still end up happening. If you experience an attack during winter, visit an emergency room near you as soon as possible.