How Change In Weather Can Cause Respiratory Issues And Ways To Tackle It?

The climate of Australia is as active in different seasons as its scenic beauties. Very hot summers and cold winters mean changes in air quality, humidity, and temperature. While some people may welcome these changes, they may mean respiratory problems for others. Let's see how weather changes can trigger respiratory problems and how to protect oneself.


How weather impacts breathing?

Neither will seasonal variations change as much as to affect our respiratory health. Sudden drops in temperature, heightened pollen counts, or increased humidity can cause inflammation of the airways and aggravate pre-existing conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, or allergies.

A young girl taking medicine tablets as she is not feeling well because of cold weather


Respiratory problems during winter season

Cold air is dry, and inhaling will narrow the airways which causes wheezing and shortness of breath. An increase in upper respiratory infections together with cold air exposure during winter may increase the risk for a period of susceptibility to asthma or COPD attacks.


Respiratory infections during cold weather

Winter is generally linked with colds and flu, which can multiply respiratory issues. Viruses flourish in chilly conditions, and less sunlight can diminish the immune system's strength, allowing infections to establish more readily.


How our lungs are impacted by weather changes?

Weather extremes, such as bushfires or dust storms, are of serious concern for Australia, dwarfing off-fine particulates into the air that might irritate the lungs and aggravate symptoms, especially among children and the elderly.


Why seasonal shifts trigger symptoms?

Changes in temperature, humidity, and air quality directly impact how well our lungs function. Here’s a closer look:

1. Change in temperature:

Rapid shifts in temperature may stress one's respiratory system and make it hard to breathe, particularly in individuals with asthma.

2. Increase in allergens:

Spring and summer usually bring increased pollen counts, which can trigger allergic reactions and worsen asthma or hay fever symptoms.

3. Dry air:

Winter can bring dry air that irritates mucous membranes of the respiratory system, which can impair adherence to the body's cleaning mechanism against toxins and germs.


Tips to handle respiratory problems during winter

While change in weather is not in our control we can take up few steps that will help you to maintain a good respiratory system.

1. Layer up and protect yourself

Using a scarf or face mask over the mouth and nose can heat up inhaled air to moderate cold air shock to the lungs. A simple move would therefore help during winter to relieve any respiratory disorders.

2. Keep indoor air clean

Invest in air purifiers to reduce indoor allergens and pollutants. Ensure proper ventilation in your home to maintain a balance between fresh air and humidity.

3. Have lots of water

Drinking plenty of fluids keeps mucous membranes moist, helping your body to better trap and expel harmful particles.

4. Get vaccinated

Seasonal respiratory infections, such as flu, can often be prevented with timely vaccinations. Speak to your GP about getting the flu shot before winter arrives.

5. Monitor weather changes

Stay updated on local weather forecasts and pollen counts. This will help you plan outdoor activities and take precautions if conditions are likely to trigger symptoms.

a young woman wearing woolen items such as sweater, cap and gloves to prevent from cold and other respiratory issues


Influencing respiratory health with winter preparations

It could be pivotal to management by taking preventive measures to boost the health of your lungs. Evidently, all-round exercise could help to strengthen your lungs. For you, practicing yoga indoors would be the perfect winter solution.

1. Eating a healthy diet:

Watering your body with fruits and vegetables is crucial for healthier living and preventing diseases of respiratory infections in the off-season.

2. Quit smoking:

Smoking worsens respiratory problems, suppressing your lungs' performance at their best; thus, making changes in weather rather annoying.

3. Humidify your home:

A humidifier will replenish those winter moisture suckers that rob the respiratory system from their proper irritation.


How air quality is affected by Bushfires?

Bushfires were noted to have worst effects on air quality. In Australia bushfire brings with many difficulties for respiratory health. Fires produce smoke that releases ultra-fine particles and gases capable of penetrating the deep lung tissues of the human body, inducing asthmatic attacks, bronchitis, and other respiratory issues.


How I can decrease exposure?

1. Stay indoors:

Close windows and doors to minimize exposure to outdoor air during high pollution days.

2. Use HEPA Filters:

Clean air machines using HEPA filters to get rid of smoke particles in the indoor areas.

3. Wear masks:

If you must go outdoors, a well-fitted mask is supposed to augur well for the filtration of harmful particles.


Humidity and how its affects us?

The effects of humidity on the respiratory tract are dependent. Some respiratory conditions become worse with either high or low humidity.

High humidity produces a very heavy and stuffy feeling of air for the patient with asthma; it also promotes household dust and mold, among others, that are potential allergens.

In contrast, low humidity leads to dryness of the lining of the respiratory tract and causes throat irritation, cough, and further difficulty in breathing.


Appropriate humidity level

You can use a hygrometer for considering that humidity must stay somewhere between 30 percent and 50 percent indoors. Depending on the season, there are either dehumidifiers or humidifiers one can get to maintain this optimum humidity.


Is it the right time to consult a doctor?

If any of the symptoms-wheezing, breathlessness or a chronic cough-that become worse with the perfunctory changes in weather bother you for more than one week, consult a healthcare practitioner. Remember that early intervention aids in the management of the disease and prevent its complications. Adjustment of the case to seasonal respiratory infections that repeat may also be conducted.


Conclusion

The changing weather frequently causes respiratory problems, so don't let it control your life. Being aware of weather-dependent breathing issues and preventative action enables you to brace up for the challenges of seasonal respiratory problems.

Discuss your problems with a healthcare professional today. Panraa Clinics provides an easy online service that lets you obtain medical certificates for illness or caregiver duties.

Consult with a qualified doctor from the comfort of your home and get your certificate quickly and hassle-free.

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