Expert Advice: Precautions People with Bronchitis and Asthma Must Take to Stay Safe During Winters

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For people living with bronchitis and asthma, winter is more than just a change of season; it can be a genuine medical challenge. Cold, dry air, pollution, and viral infections create a 'perfect storm' that narrows the airways and triggers flare-ups. Winter doesn't have to mean constant breathlessness if you prepare and protect your lungs.

We spoke to Dr Anjali R Nath, Consultant Pulmonologist and Allergy Specialist, Hosmat Hospitals, Magrath Road, Bengaluru, who listed precautions people with respiratory infections should follow in winter.

Why Are Winters Harder on Bronchitis and Asthma?

"Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, affecting an estimated 262 million people globally. India alone carries around 34 million people with asthma, contributing to about 13% of the global burden and having a disproportionately higher mortality rate," explained Dr Nath.

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• People with chronic bronchitis or asthma have hyper-responsive airways. In winter:
• Cold, dry air acts as a direct trigger for bronchospasm (airway narrowing).
• Viral respiratory infections are more common and can precipitate severe episodes.
• Air pollution and smog trap dust, smoke, and allergens at ground level, worsening symptoms.

The result is familiar: increased coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, nighttime symptoms, and emergency visits.

Essential Precautions For Winter

1. Protect your airways from cold air

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• Always cover your nose and mouth with a scarf or mask when stepping outdoors in early mornings or late nights.
• Breathe through your nose rather than your mouth; the nose warms and humidifies air more effectively.
• Avoid sudden exposure - don't go from a very warm room directly into the cold wind.

2. Keep indoor air clean and comfortable

• Indoor air can be as harmful as outdoor air.
• Avoid smoking or second-hand smoke entirely.
• Minimise incense sticks, room fresheners and mosquito coils.
• Vacuum and dust regularly to reduce mites and allergens.
• Use a humidifier cautiously if the air is dry, maintaining humidity around 30% to 45% to prevent both dryness and mould growth.

3. Stay ahead of infections

Because infections are a major trigger:

• Take your annual flu vaccine and keep COVID-19 boosters updated as advised.
• Wash your hands frequently and avoid close contact with people who are visibly ill.
• Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated indoor spaces during the peak winter virus season.

4. Follow your treatment plan, don't 'self-edit'

We often see patients reducing or stopping their controller inhalers when they feel better, only to land in the emergency room during winter.

• Continue your prescribed controller inhaler (usually an inhaled corticosteroid +/- long-acting bronchodilator) exactly as advised.
• Always carry your rescue inhaler and check that it is not expired.
• Review your "Asthma or Bronchitis Action Plan" with your doctor before winter - know what to do when symptoms start to worsen.

5. Stay active, but exercise smart

Mild to moderate exercise is beneficial for lung health, but cold air can trigger symptoms.

• Warm up indoors before exercising.
• Prefer indoor workouts (yoga, cycling, walking in corridors or malls) on very cold or high-pollution days.
• For exercise-induced symptoms, ask your doctor if you should use a reliever inhaler 10 to 15 minutes before activity.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Help

Seek emergency care immediately if you or a loved one with bronchitis or asthma experiences:

• Breathlessness at rest or difficulty speaking full sentences
• Chest tightness not relieved by usual inhaler doses
• Bluish lips or fingers
• Peak flow values dropping well below your personal best

Bottomline

Dr Nath concluded, "In our practice, we see that patients who prepare for winter by optimising inhaler use, taking vaccines, improving indoor air and respecting their triggers, experience far fewer hospital visits and a better quality of life."

Winter may challenge your lungs, but it does not have to control your life. With the right precautions and a strong partnership between patient and doctor, people with bronchitis and asthma can breathe easier through the cold months and beyond.