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What is asthma?
What are the types of asthma?
What are the symptoms of asthma?
What causes worsening of asthma symptoms in winter?
How to avoid worsening asthma symptoms in winter?
Winter is a challenge for people with asthma – do you feel how the cold, viruses, and dry air make breathing more difficult? The good news is that there are ways to control the symptoms! If you want to learn more about how to avoid worsening your asthma complaints in winter, read this article to the end.
What is asthma?
Asthma is a chronic condition where the airways become swollen and narrowed. This leads to the overproduction of mucus (phlegm in the airways), which in turn can cause symptoms such as persistent cough, shortness of breath, and more. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the individual and the triggering factors. For some, asthma causes mild discomfort, while for others, it can become a life-threatening problem.
What are the types of asthma?
Asthma types can be classified into two groups – based on severity and based on causes. The first group includes:
- Mild intermittent asthma – daytime attacks occur up to twice a week. Nighttime symptoms are usually absent, but if present, they occur no more than twice a month.
- Mild persistent asthma – daytime attacks happen twice or more weekly, with nighttime attacks occurring about 8 times a month.
- Moderate persistent asthma – daily daytime attacks with high intensity; nighttime attacks can occur up to 10 times a month.
- Severe persistent asthma – the most serious form, with frequent acute attacks both day and night, requiring continuous treatment and regular medical check-ups.
- The second category, based on causes, divides asthma into:
Bronchial asthma – the most common form, further divided into allergic asthma (triggered by allergens such as dust and pet dander) and non-allergic asthma (triggered by irritants like cold temperatures, anxiety, etc.).
Cardiac asthma – seen in people with heart failure, worsening mainly at night and after physical exertion.
Seasonal asthma – symptoms appear during specific seasons; for some, summer and spring with dry air and pollen, and for others, autumn and winter when temperatures drop.
What are the symptoms of asthma?
Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity but often include:
Shortness of breath
Chest tightness and pain
Wheezing on exhalation (especially common in children)
Disturbed sleep due to breathlessness, cough, or pain
Sudden attacks of coughing or wheezing
What causes worsening of asthma symptoms in winter?
In winter, asthma symptoms worsen for several reasons:
Low temperatures – inhaling cold air can narrow your airways, leading to increased mucus production, difficulty breathing, and coughing. Cold can also trigger colds and inflammation, further worsening asthma symptoms.
Viruses and flu – respiratory infections can inflame airways and weaken the immune system, increasing mucus production and blocking airways, raising the risk of asthma attacks and breathing difficulties.
Heating devices – heaters dry out indoor air, irritating airways and worsening asthma symptoms.
How to avoid worsening asthma symptoms in winter?
There are several effective ways to ease asthma symptoms during winter. Here are some of the best tips:
Drink enough water
Hydration is essential for proper respiratory function. Drinking enough fluids thins the mucus in your airways, making it easier to clear and reducing the risk of bronchial blockage and asthma exacerbations. If unsure how much water to drink daily, consult a specialist. To remind yourself, keep a water bottle visible or use a phone app for reminders.
Dress warmly and wear a scarf and hat when going outside
Cold air and low temperatures are key triggers. Wear a thick jacket, a hat (as much body heat is lost through the head), and a scarf covering your neck and mouth.
Try to breathe through your nose
Mouth breathing dries the respiratory mucosa and can trigger coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Nasal breathing warms and moistens air before it reaches the lungs, reducing irritation and sudden airway constriction.
Maintain good hand hygiene
Clean hands reduce the risk of respiratory infections by preventing bacteria, allergens, and irritants from entering your body. Wash hands regularly with soap and warm water or use disinfectant gel when out.
Ventilate regularly
Regularly airing out rooms prevents accumulation of allergens and pollutants indoors, which can trigger asthma attacks. Even during winter, open windows for a few minutes every hour.
Use a humidifier
Heaters dry the air, irritating airways. Using a humidifier creates a healthier indoor environment. Clean it regularly to avoid mold and bacteria growth. If you don’t have a humidifier, placing a bowl of water or a wet cloth on a radiator can help by releasing moisture into the air. Be cautious not to spill water.
Use an inhaler
An inhaler can help relieve symptoms by moisturizing your respiratory tract and thinning mucus, making breathing easier and reducing attack risk. If you don’t have one, steam inhalations with hot water (optionally with a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil) can help. Use a towel over your head to capture the steam, and do this twice daily for about 10 minutes, taking care to avoid burns.
Avoid smoky places
Tobacco smoke is a strong airway irritant. In winter, smoking indoors is often allowed in some places, which can worsen asthma symptoms. Avoid smoky environments. If you smoke, quitting is the best option.
Take medications as prescribed
Sometimes symptoms are severe and require medication. If symptoms are uncontrollable, see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Never buy or take medication without medical advice, as it can worsen your condition.
Conclusion
Asthma is an unpleasant condition whose symptoms can worsen significantly during winter due to factors like cold air and low temperatures. Fortunately, these symptoms can be managed by taking the right measures early. We hope the advice shared here helps you control your asthma symptoms during the cold season.
This article is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical consultation. For more helpful articles, please visit our health portal.
This blog article is approved by Master Pharmacist Antonia Topalova.
