Asthma and Cold Weather

[Junglechicken]

Good Morning Everyone

Hope you are all hanging on and not too overwhelmed by things in general. I was just wondering as my asthma has got a lot worse in the last 6 months is it important that as the weather gets colder I keep as warm as possible? I’m making sure that I’m wrapping up at the moment when I go out especially a scarf around my mouth. I’m just concerned that becoming cold will make me more vulnerable to viruses.

Thank You. JC

[Mogget]

Hi JC, same - I’m bundled up like the Michelin man every time I leave the house at the moment! Research shows that cold weather can weaken your immune system thereby making you more vulnerable to bugs. Having a scarf over your mouth/nose helps warm the air too as cold air can be a trigger. And helps protect against pollution a bit too I guess!

[Junglechicken in reply to Mogget]

I find when I get cold I get stressed. When stressed my asthma symptoms get worse. Last night I was a bit stressed out but I snuggled with a hot water bottle and felt straight to sleep.

[ldrunner in reply to Junglechicken]

Cold air + stress are very bad for my asthma!

[Junglechicken in reply to ldrunner]

The cold air is a brand new trigger for me. Never happened before.

[Mogget in reply to Junglechicken]

I’m the same with the stress. People sometimes wonder why I’m chill at work in stressful situations but I have to be otherwise I get sick!

[Junglechicken in reply to Mogget]

Gosh, I wish I could be cool in stressful situations. I’m the worrier and the one who panics!

[Tigerpaws]

I also cover my nose. As one should always breath throughyour nose, very cold air is not always warmed by the 'turbinates'(?) in your nose. Warm gloves, wooly hat and warm socks help!