Know How To Maintain Respiratory Health During Winter

Winter brings with it a host of respiratory complaints for many people, including coughs, colds, wheezing, asthma, and bronchitis.

Winter health care tips

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The winter season is eagerly anticipated for its delightful food and pleasant weather, but it also comes with a range of health challenges. The cold climate can weaken our immune system, leaving us vulnerable to numerous health problems. Winter brings with it a host of respiratory complaints for many people, including coughs, colds, wheezing, asthma, and bronchitis.

In many urban places, the winter frequently brings the unwanted presence of smog. There are serious health hazards associated in winter because of the presence of smog, especially for those who have respiratory conditions. It can cause respiratory distress and worsen illnesses like asthma.

Dr. Vikram Jaggi who is an MD, DNB, Founder & Director, of Asthma Chest Allergy Centre, Delhi and Gurgaon said, "Ranging from mould, dampness, and dust mites to exposure to chest infections as well as cold and flu viruses, winter comes with quite a few asthma triggers, with cold air itself being a common trigger. In fact, it can also lead to an attack and newer cases of weather-induced asthma. And if that wasn’t enough, cold and flu viruses run rampant during winter and while to most of us it may just seem like a passing malady – for asthmatics it could result in that infection developing into pneumonia."

"Children and the elderly are perhaps the most vulnerable during this time of year. Children are more susceptible to common colds and infections during this time of year, while any exacerbated symptoms in older asthmatics leading to an aggravated condition. These two groups, especially if they are asthmatics, should pay special attention during these months. Parents should keep a close eye on their children to understand their triggers and communicate them to their doctor. This may help them reduce unexpected triggers and control their symptoms over time, both during and after winters. Besides that, both groups should have an action plan in place in consultation with their doctor, an inhaler as per your doctor’s recommendation, maintain proper hygiene, stay active, and drink plenty of fluids as dehydration can exacerbate asthma attacks," he added.

Tips To Take Care Of Your Health During Winters:

Dr. Arunesh Kumar, who is a Sr. Consultant & Head - Pulmonology & Respiratory Medicine, at Paras Health, Gurugram shared few tips to take care of your health in winters:

• You should continue washing hands and make sure they are germ-free. Never put unclean hands near your mouth, nose, or eyes.
• Exercise and indoor activities are preferable than running since pollution and cold waves might negatively affect your respiratory system.
• Make sure your house is tidy and free of allergies, mould, and dust.
• To maintain the health of your lungs, treat yourself to breathing exercises.
• Get the flu and pneumonia vaccine to keep your lungs healthy and disease-free during winter.
• Consume foods that are good for the lungs and can boost your immunity, such as apples, walnuts, broccoli, beans, berries, papaya, pineapple, kiwi, cabbage, carrots, turmeric, green leafy vegetables, and ginger. Processed, junk food, fried, fatty, and canned foods as these may irritate your throat and are full of additives, preservatives, and artificial flavours.

Dr. Piyush Goel who is a Consultant - Pulmonology at Manipal Hospital Gurugram also added the following:

• Stay Warm: Cold air can be harsh on your respiratory system. Dress in layers, wear scarves, and cover your nose and mouth to warm the air before it enters your lungs.
• Stay Hydrated: Indoor heating systems can dry out the air, leading to irritated airways. Ensure you drink enough water to keep your respiratory passages moist.
• Avoid Indoor Air Pollution: Use air purifiers to reduce indoor air pollutants like dust, pet dander, and chemicals. Avoid smoking indoors, as it can worsen air quality and irritate your respiratory system.
• Ventilate Your Home: Proper ventilation helps remove indoor pollutants and maintain a fresh airflow, which is essential for respiratory health.
• Get Vaccinated: Consider getting a flu shot to protect yourself from common winter respiratory infections.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals can prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]