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Each season of the year seems to bring its own health challenges that impact people with asthma and allergies. Winter is no exception, as it brings cold weather and keeps us inside more where indoor triggers such as dust mites, pet allergens, and smoke can worsen asthma and allergy symptoms. Furthermore, the increasing tendency to remain indoors puts us closer to other people and increases our chances of passing along and catching respiratory illnesses such as colds and the flu. Cold, dry air speeds up moisture loss from the airways and is a common asthma trigger.
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Maryland-Greater Washington, D.C. Chapter (AAFA MD-DC) offers these tips for people with asthma and allergies to help them get through the winter:
Warm and humidify winter winds before they enter your lungs by wearing a scarf or muffler over your face. If these don’t protect against asthma episodes, consider buying a warming mask, available at most medical supply stores.
Be sure you have worked out a good management plan with your doctor before undertaking any outdoor winter activities. Keep your asthma medication with you at all times and follow your doctor’s instructions.
It is important to be aware of your indoor air quality. Heating vents can blow accumulated dust and debris throughout your home. Clean or replace filters in furnace before turning your home heating system on. Placing a nonflammable filtering material (such as cheesecloth) over heating vents can help catch dust particles. Check and replace such homemade filters frequently.
Inspect the filters in any portable air cleaners you plan to use and clean or replace them as necessary. Running air cleaners at the highest setting during winter months can help reduce allergic reactions to dander and mold.
Consider cleaning your chimney before lighting that first fire of the season and be sure that the fireplace flue works properly. Check fireplace vents and keep fireplace doors closed to eliminate as much smoke as possible. Replace fireplace screens with a door.
If you use a wood-burning stove, talk to your allergist or family physician about ways to reduce irritants caused by smoldering embers and other combustible materials.
If you or another family member has moderate or severe asthma, ask your physician about the need for a flu shot. Your physician may recommend that everyone in the family be immunized to protect the more vulnerable family member (especially if that member is a child with asthma).
In every season, the most important thing is to keep your asthma under control. This includes taking the proper medication regularly as prescribed, avoiding your triggers and getting medical attention when needed. With proper management and some vigilance, you can enjoy the winter season.
For more information about asthma and allergy management, please contact AAFA MD-DC at 410-653-2880 or 800-727-9333.
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