Asthma is a common chronic condition, characterized by the swelling and constriction of the airways in the lungs.  Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. People who suffer from asthma, differ in the frequency and severity of the symptoms they experience. For some asthma is very mild, while for others it can represent a very serious health condition.  An example of this are people considered status asthmatics.  This is asthma that does not respond to standard treatments and can cause death from severely compromised breathing.  

                 The prevalence of asthma has increase significantly over the past few decades, and according to statistics is 2010, 300 million people were affected worldwide.  Asthma symptoms can be triggered by exercise, occupation exposure, allergens, infections or cold dry air.  Although we have had a mild winter thus far, there is cold weather on the horizon and changing conditions could affect those with asthma.   Here are some tips to avoid triggers and prevent asthma attacks this winter:

1.     Prevent infection:

§  Wash your hands and get a flu shot

§  The CDC recommends that most people age 6 months and older get a flu shot, it is especially recommended for individuals with known lung disease

2.     Avoid irritants:

§  Although sitting by a fire sounds cozy, the burning wood can actually exacerbate asthma symptoms

§  Replace filters regularly

3.     Warm up the air

§  When you exercise, try to stay inside.  The air will likely be warmer and more humid.

§  If you do want to work out outside, make sure to warm up. A recent study showed that people with asthma recovered faster and have greater lung function after exercising when they warmed up first.

4.     Breath through your nose

§  Your body was designed to warm and humidify air this way

§  If you prefer, wearing a scarf over your mouth can also help humidify and warm air.

§  Cold dry air is more likely to trigger asthma symptoms

Staying safe with asthma during the winter

Make sure you always have an asthma action plan in place.  This is a detailed protocol, made with your physician, which outlines what to do in the event you have an asthma attack and what to do if your symptoms escalate or do not respond to treatment.  Keep your physician in the loop and let them know about any changes in your symptoms and especially if they required you to go the hospital for care.  Furthermore, take your medicine.  Work with your doctor to make an effective treatment plan and continue to get regular checkups.