Asthma & Cold Weather

Asthma impacts the lives of more than 3.8 million Canadians, making it the third most common chronic disease in the country. Sadly, about 250 Canadians lose their lives to asthma each year (Asthma Canada, 2021). Given these significant statistics, it is essential for those affected by asthma to understand the condition, recognize its triggers, and learn how to manage symptoms—especially during the cold winter months.

Asthma is a chronic lung condition characterized by inflammation of the airways, which can become narrowed and swollen. This narrowing often leads to excess mucus production, making it difficult to breathe (Cleveland Clinic, 2022). The main passages involved are called bronchi (the larger airways) and bronchioles (the smaller branches). Because of this ongoing inflammation, it’s essential to manage and monitor asthma symptoms regularly to maintain proper breathing and overall health. Common symptoms of asthma can include wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing), breathlessness, a sensation chest tightness, and frequent coughing, particularly at night or in the early morning (Mayo Clinic, 2024). These symptoms can worsen, sometimes provoked by asthma triggers, and lead to asthma flare-ups, which are episodes where asthma becomes more severe. (Mayo Clinic, 2023).

Asthma triggers are factors that can provoke or worsen symptoms and are categorized into two main types: inflammatory (allergic) triggers and symptom (non-allergic) triggers (Asthma Canada, n.d.). Inflammatory triggers cause allergic reactions that can inflame the lung airways while symptom triggers may not cause inflammation but can provoke airway sensitivity, particularly in already inflamed lungs (Asthma Canada, n.d.).  

Cold weather is a significant non-allergic trigger that can greatly impact asthma patients. When exposed to cold, dry air, the body undergoes physiological responses like bronchospasms, where the airways narrow and tighten, and increased mucus production, thus increasing irritation in the airways (Mayo Clinic, 2024). This reaction can lead to the release of histamine, a chemical that triggers wheezing and other symptoms (Watson, 2023). Additionally, cold weather can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fend off viruses, which can further irritate the airways and lead to asthma flare-ups (Harvard Health Publishing, 2010). Given the potentially severe effects of cold weather on asthma, it is crucial to take proactive measures to limit exposure and protect respiratory health.

To minimize the impact of cold weather on asthma, individuals can implement several effective strategies. First, it’s advisable to stay indoors during extremely cold or windy conditions to avoid exposure to harsh air that can further irritate the airways (Allergy & Asthma Network, n.d.). When going outside, covering the nose and mouth with a scarf or mask can help warm the air before it enters the lungs thus reducing irritation (Morales-Brown, 2024). Moreover, drinking extra fluids is also important as it helps keep the airways moist and supports overall respiratory health. Maintaining a clean home environment by regularly vacuuming and dusting can significantly reduce indoor allergens, which can also trigger symptoms (Riverside Health, n.d.). Additionally, taking preventive measures against viral infections is crucial, as colds and flu can exacerbate asthma symptoms. This might include getting vaccinated, practicing good hand hygiene, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2024). Together, these steps can help protect against the adverse effects of cold weather on asthma.

It’s also important to carry a rescue inhaler at all times for quick access during an asthma attack. Lastly, continuing to take prescribed controller medication as directed by a healthcare provider is vital for effective asthma management (U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2022).

In conclusion, managing asthma effectively requires awareness of triggers especially during colder months. By understanding how cold weather affects asthma and implementing proactive measures, individuals can minimize their risk of flare-ups and maintain a better quality of life. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment plans.  

References

Asthma Canada. (2021). Annual report 2021. Asthma.ca. https://asthma.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/2021-Annual-Report-Final.pdf  

Asthma triggers. Asthma Canada. (n.d.). https://asthma.ca/get-help/asthma-triggers/  

Balzer, D. (2024, January 31). Is the extreme cold bad for your lungs? - mayo clinic news network. Mayo Clinic. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/is-the-extreme-cold-bad-for-your-lungs/#:~:text=%22What%20happens%20is%20that%20cold,feeling%20of%20shortness%20of%20breath.%22  

Cleveland Clinic. (2022, January 19). Asthma: Types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis & treatment. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6424-asthma  

Cold air and asthma = winter asthma. Allergy & Asthma Network. (n.d.). https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/cold-air-asthma-in-winter/  

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2023, October 5). Asthma attack. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma-attack/symptoms-causes/syc-20354268  

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2024a, April 6). Asthma. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma/symptoms-causes/syc-20369653  

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2024b, September 26). Asthma: Limit asthma attacks caused by colds or flu. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma-attack/in-depth/asthma/art-20043943  

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2024c, September 26). Asthma: Limit asthma attacks caused by colds or flu. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma-attack/in-depth/asthma/art-20043943  

Morales-Brown, L. (2024, March 7). Can cold weather make COPD worse?. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cold-weather-and-copd  

Out in the cold - harvard health publications. Harvard Health. (2010, January 1). https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/out-in-the-cold  

Tips to avoid asthma attacks in cold weather. Riverside Health. (n.d.). https://www.riversideonline.com/en/patients-and-visitors/healthy-you-blog/blog/t/tips-to-avoid-asthma-attacks-in-cold-weather#:~:text=Cold%20air%20can%20trigger%20your,a%20mask%20or%20a%20scarf  

U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2022, July 15). Asthma: Learn more – medication for people with asthma. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279519/  

Watson, S. (2023, May 19). How to limit cold weather–induced asthma. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma/cold-induced-asthma#connection-between-cold-weather-and-asthma

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