Winter can be a challenging season for people with asthma. The cold and dry air can trigger asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath, leading to a winter asthma crisis.

However, with the right knowledge and preparation, you can manage your asthma and minimize your risk of an asthma attack during winter. Here are some tips from experts on how to prevent and control winter asthma.

1. Get a flu shot

One of the best ways to prevent a winter asthma crisis is to get a flu shot. The flu can worsen asthma symptoms and increase the risk of an asthma attack. Therefore, it is recommended that people with asthma get the flu shot every year.

The flu shot is safe for people with asthma and can reduce the risk of flu-related asthma complications.

2. Keep your inhaler close by

People with asthma should always carry their inhaler, especially during winter. Cold and dry air can trigger asthma symptoms, and having your inhaler with you can help relieve symptoms quickly.

Make sure you have enough inhalers and check the expiration dates regularly.

3. Use a humidifier

Using a humidifier at home can help alleviate the dryness in the air that may trigger asthma symptoms during winter. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, making it easier to breathe and reducing the risk of asthma attacks.

However, it is important to clean your humidifier regularly to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.

4. Wear a scarf over your nose and mouth

Cold air can be harsh on the lungs and trigger asthma symptoms. Wearing a scarf over your nose and mouth can help warm the air and reduce the risk of asthma attacks.

Make sure the scarf is loose enough to allow easy breathing and not too tight to avoid adding extra stress to the airways.

5. Stay indoors on cold and windy days

On cold and windy days, it’s best to stay indoors if possible. Cold air can trigger asthma symptoms, and windy conditions can spread allergens and pollutants that can also worsen asthma symptoms.

If you have to go outside, make sure to cover your face with a scarf and carry your inhaler with you.

6. Maintain good indoor air quality

Indoor air quality can have a significant impact on asthma symptoms. During winter, we tend to spend more time indoors, so it’s important to ensure good indoor air quality.

Keep your home clean and free of dust and allergens, and use an air purifier if necessary. Avoid smoking and using harsh cleaning chemicals that can irritate the lungs.

7. Exercise indoors

Regular exercise is important for overall health, including for people with asthma. However, during winter, exercising outdoors can be challenging for people with asthma due to the cold weather.

Try to exercise indoors, such as at a gym or home with indoor exercise equipment. Remember to warm up before exercising and carry your inhaler with you.

8. Follow your asthma action plan

If you have asthma, you should have an asthma action plan that outlines what to do in case of an asthma attack. It is important to follow your plan, especially during winter, when asthma symptoms can be more severe.

Your plan may include steps such as using your inhaler, seeking medical attention, or calling 911 in case of an emergency.

9. Stay informed about air quality

Air quality can have a significant impact on asthma symptoms. Check your local air quality index and take steps to minimize your exposure to pollutants when air quality is poor.

Avoid outdoor activities and stay indoors if possible when air quality is unhealthy.

10. Seek medical attention if necessary

If you experience severe asthma symptoms during winter, seek medical attention immediately. Winter asthma crises can be dangerous and require prompt treatment to prevent complications.

Don’t hesitate to call 911 or go to the emergency room if your symptoms are severe.