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Wintertime is when you might find a higher incidence of respiratory illness in younger populations. Winter brings with it inversion, and thus, pollutants, as well as allergens, accumulate within the air that you inhale. Higher exposure to allergy-aggravating substances tends to increase lung diseases like asthma and allergic rhinitis, typically causing a negative impact on your respiratory health during the winter season. With winter approaching, we have been regularly encountering an increase in H1N1 influenza, adeno, and respiratory syncytial virus cases in Bangalore. In this blog, let’s discuss the causes of these winter illnesses along with some tips to prevent respiratory illnesses during winter and continue good health.
Synopsis
How Winter Affects Respiratory Health?
In winter, the temperature of the air decreases, which then causes a natural phenomenon called ‘temperature inversion’. In normal seasons, warm air rises and carries away pollutants from the lower atmosphere. During a temperature inversion, the air temperature around us becomes lower and higher at higher altitudes. Cooler air traps pollutants and allergens closer to the ground. This makes the air you breathe more concentrated with harmful particles such as pollen and pollutants.
There is also an increase in wind speed during winter, which enhances the spread of pollen. Winter has been called the ‘pollination season’, so there is increased airborne pollen concentration that can exacerbate or even cause viral infections, allergies in asthma and allergic rhinitis, or even Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Effects of Pollen Exposure During Winter:
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Airways become hyper-reactive
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Bronchoconstriction (narrowing of airways)
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Symptoms: Wheezing, coughing, excessive phlegm, sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion
India is among the countries that are highly affected by high mortality rates due to asthma during the winter seasons. Patients with respiratory conditions get admitted more frequently—this is due to a drop in oxygen saturation and excessive breathlessness. The treatment for respiratory infections is mainly symptomatic and includes inhalers, nebulizations, or IV steroids to recover from the exacerbation and improve lung health.
Common Respiratory Illnesses During Winter
Aside from allergens, viral infections also flourish during the winter season. The air is mostly cold and dry, which causes irritation to the upper respiratory tract, thereby providing an environment for viruses to thrive and easily spread.
Some of the most common viral respiratory illnesses during the winter include:
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Influenza (flu)
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Adenovirus
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Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
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Bacterial infections like pneumonia
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Bronchitis
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Asthma
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Allergic Rhinitis
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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Most of these cases are mild with less than 1% mortality rates. However, the elderly (more than 65 years of age) and those with other health complications like uncontrolled diabetes, chronic kidney and liver disease, ischemic heart disease, and immunosuppressed individuals, are at higher risk for worsening disease manifestations and need hospitalization for intensive care.
Click here to read our blog: Allergies In Winter: All You Need To Know
Tips to Prevent Respiratory Illnesses During Winter
To prevent respiratory illnesses during winter, you would need a combination of good hygiene, immunization, and concern for maintaining lung health.
Here are some winter health tips for protecting yourself from respiratory problems:
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Be Sincere with Medication: In case you have conditions like asthma, always use inhalers as prescribed by the doctor. It is a very sensitive period in winter.
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Use Masks: You can restrict allergens and pollutants by wearing a mask whenever there is a high risk of exposure to the allergens. These elements are usually present in more significant amounts due to the temperature inversion.
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Use Air Purifiers: Air purifiers for indoor environments can reduce the suspended particulate matter, pollen, and pollutants. This will greatly contribute to ensuring that the air in your home, especially the bedroom, is clean.
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Vaccination: Annual vaccinations are important, especially against diseases such as influenza and pneumonia. The influenza vaccine should be administered during September or April to ensure protection till the flu season is over. A pneumococcal vaccine is particularly advised for people who are at a higher risk.
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Consult with Your Doctor Regularly: Pay regular visits to your pulmonologist during winter if you are prone to respiratory disorders. This early management may prevent triggers from becoming severe.
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Good Hygiene Practice: Wash your hands frequently to prevent getting infected with viruses. Avoid contact with sick people, and ensure that you stay warm because this reduces the chances of falling sick.
Consult our pulmonology hospital in Millers Road if you need treatment and care for lung diseases.
Final Thoughts
Winter may bring many challenges, but with the right precautions, you can stay ahead of respiratory illnesses. Stay vigilant with your medications, wear masks when necessary, and invest in good air quality at home. Regular exercise, including age-old practices like yoga and pranayama, can improve lung health and boost immunity. Even for kids, it is important to follow the above precautionary measures during winter to improve immune function – which can help prevent these common respiratory illnesses in children.
A balanced diet rich in raw leafy vegetables and fruits and low in fat and carbohydrates can improve immunity to fight respiratory illnesses during the winter. Avoid processed foods and maintain a healthy weight. You can ensure a healthy winter season by taking small yet consistent steps. Stay healthy, stay safe, and care for your lungs this winter!
If you still fall sick, be sure to take rest, drink plenty of fluids, and seek medical attention if necessary. Consult our top pulmonologists in Millers Road for comprehensive care for respiratory problems.
FAQ's
An air purifier with a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter is considered the best air purifier for asthma patients. It is effective in capturing airborne particles like dust, pollen, and pollutants, helping to improve the air quality in your home.
Yes, but you should be cautious. Cold air can trigger asthma symptoms, so it’s best to exercise during warmer times of the day or opt for indoor activities. Wearing a scarf over your nose and mouth can help warm the air before you breathe it in.
You can certainly reduce your risk of respiratory illnesses by following a healthy lifestyle. Maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and ensure proper hygiene. Incorporating yoga and breathing exercises into your routine can also help improve lung capacity. Additionally, managing your weight and avoiding processed foods will boost your immunity.
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