Why breathing cold air can hurt your lungs

If you've ever stepped outside on a chilly day and felt suddenly breathless or like you've had the wind knocked out of you, then you know just how much harsh winter weather can affect your lungs. During colder weather, people with lung conditions may struggle with respiratory issues.

"Cold air is dry… there is less humidity in the air," explains Andrew P. Pitman, MD, a pulmonologist at Main Line Health. "Our throats and noses are coated with a very thin layer of fluid but, when we step outside, the cold air automatically draws in that moisture and moisture from our skin and hair."

As a result, we're left with scratchy throats and dry noses. Drier air is also to blame for dry skin, static cling and fly-away hair — some common (but less serious) winter weather woes. It's important to know how to protect your lungs during this time to prevent illnesses like pneumonia.

Impact of cold air on respiratory conditions

Cold air can worsen existing respiratory issues by narrowing the airways, making it more challenging to breathe. This effect is particularly severe for individuals with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or respiratory issues like bronchitis, pneumonia or sinusitis.

"Dry air can aggravate respiratory conditions so, if you have one or have a history of sickness or hospitalization, it's important to take extra precautions," says Dr. Pitman. This means:

• Avoiding indoor and outdoor pollutants — A fire might make you feel warm and cozy, but it can also irritate your lungs. Stay away from chimneys/fireplaces and people smoking cigars or cigarettes.
• Making your health a priority — Continue taking prescription medications, make sure you're current on seasonal and age-specific vaccinations and carry a rescue inhaler with you, if you have one.
• Cover your mouth and nose — Use winter weather gear to protect your airways. Before you step outside, use your jacket, scarf or gloves to cover your nose and mouth and protect in from a rush of cold air. If you have portable oxygen, keep it under your coat to prevent it from being affected by the cold.
• Exercise indoors — Keep your fitness routine indoors, especially on very cold days.
• Wash your hands — In addition to dry air, it's easy to contact a cold or the flu during winter months, which can irritate respiratory issues. Wash your hands thoroughly and often with soap and warm water.
• Check the weather — You can't spend the entire winter season indoors, but you can avoid going outside on especially brisk or windy days. Take a look at the forecast each week and try to determine what days are best for errands or appointments.

How cold weather can increase the risk of pneumonia

Cold weather can make it easier to get pneumonia by weakening the immune system and increasing the risk of infections. Being indoors more in winter can lead to closer contact with others and the spread of respiratory infections like pneumonia.

"To stay healthy and prevent pneumonia, remember to wash your hands often, stay away from sick people, get vaccinated and eat well and exercise regularly to boost your immune system," says Dr. Pitman. "You should also aim to get seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night to boost your immune system."

Dry winter air can worsen respiratory problems by causing throat and nasal irritation, leading to symptoms like dry noses and nosebleeds. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids can help keep mucous membranes healthy and reducing irritation.

You should also take steps to maintain proper humidity levels at home. Using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air, reducing respiratory discomfort and benefiting the skin. Placing water bowls near heating sources can further improve air quality and ease respiratory symptoms.

Choosing the right healthcare provider for respiratory issues

If shortness of breath, wheezing, congestion, trouble swallowing or other respiratory symptoms are making daily life uncomfortable, it may be a sign of respiratory disease and you should seek further medical care.

When looking for a healthcare provider for respiratory issues, start with your primary care physician who can refer you to a specialist if needed. For chronic respiratory problems, a pulmonologist is often the best choice as they specialize in lung health.

Next steps:

Make an appointment with Andrew P. Pitman, MD
Learn more about pulmonary care at Main Line Health
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