1. Cold Air Triggers Asthma
Cold air is a common stimulus of asthma symptoms. The inhalation of cold air can cause tightening of your air passages, a process known as bronchoconstriction. This tightening of muscles leading to and surrounding the lungs can cause spasms that prevent air from circulating into the lungs. Cold air also causes an increase in the production of mucus. The mucus blocks the already constricted tubes making breathing difficult. The blockage leads to wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Asthma symptoms often appear about 5 to 15 minutes after you are exposed to cold air.
2. Cover Your Mouth and Nose
Always check the weather before you leave your house and dress appropriately. If the weather is cold, wear a warm hat and gloves. Avoid asthma flare-ups by wrapping a thick scarf around your mouth and nose which will allow you to breathe in warm and moist air. Ski masks that prevent inhalation of cold air are also an option. Try to limit the amount of time you spend outside and if it's really cold, consider staying inside.
3. Exercise Indoors
Exercise can also trigger asthma symptoms, especially when you work out in the cold. Therefore, when the temperature outside drops, avoid asthma flare-ups by exercising indoors. Exercising inside can also prevent asthma symptoms triggered by pollution. Indoor pools are a great exercise site for sufferers of asthma because of their warm and humid air. If you do want to continue exercising outside, complete warm-up exercises inside before heading out into the cold.
4. Consult with Your Health Care Provider
Cold air-induced asthma symptoms can cause serious breathing problems and even death. If you suffer from asthma symptoms when exposed to cold air, consult with your health care provider who can help you prevent future symptoms and devise an asthma emergency plan. Try writing down the temperature and weather conditions before and during asthma flare-ups and bringing this log to your next health care appointment. Keeping track of when your symptoms are worse can help your provider fully understand your asthma triggers. In addition to advising you on how to avoid triggers, your doctor may prescribe asthma medications.
5. Use Medication Regularly
Some asthma medications prevent asthma symptoms, others provide ongoing control of asthma, and others (rescue medications) are used in emergency settings once an asthma flare-up begins. On cold days, take your asthma medication before going outside. Always carry your asthma medication with you. If you find your medication isn't helping with your asthma symptoms, consult with your heath care provider who can help determine if your dosage needs to be altered. Also consider receiving a flu vaccine as this can also help prevent asthma attacks during the winter.
