How to Keep Your Lungs Healthy This Winter!

As winter arrives, many of us struggle with respiratory issues more often. Let's look at why respiratory issues increase in winter and some simple tips to help you breathe more easily.

Why do respiratory issues increase in winter?

1. Cold air and viruses: When the temperature drops, the inside of your nose cools down. This can weaken the cells that help fight off viruses and bacteria, making you more likely to get sick with the flu or a cold.
2. Dry air: Winter air is much drier. When you breathe it in, it can dry out your airways, causing them to become inflamed. This can worsen conditions like asthma and lead to more mucus buildup.
3. Indoor heating: While heating systems keep us warm, they can also reduce humidity levels in the air, drying out your respiratory system. This can lead to problems like sinusitis or bronchitis.

Common respiratory issues and tips for managing them

1. Sinusitis

Sinusitis happens when your sinuses get inflamed, often due to an infection. This can lead to a blocked or runny nose and a bad headache.

• Use warm compresses on your nose and forehead to reduce pressure and ease headaches.
• Try a saline nasal spray to clear blocked sinuses.
• Inhale steam by adding a few drops of essential oils like eucalyptus to a bowl of hot water.

2. Bronchitis

Bronchitis is when the airways in your lungs become inflamed, often causing a persistent cough. It can be triggered by a virus or irritants like smoke.

• Use a steam inhaler to loosen mucus and help with breathing.
• Gargle with saline water to soothe your throat.
• Avoid smoking and take vitamin D to boost your immune system.

3. Asthma

The cold air in winter can irritate your airways, making asthma symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and tightness in the chest worse.

• Try to limit exposure to triggers like dust and pollen. A mask can help when you're outside.
• Avoid exercising outdoors in the cold, as dry air can trigger asthma attacks.
• Practice deep breathing exercises to help keep your airways relaxed.

If your symptoms get worse or don’t improve, make sure to consult your doctor. By taking the right steps to protect your health, you can breathe easier this winter and stay well.

Source:-1. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/7-strategies-to-fight-winter-breathing-problems 

               2. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/preventing-seasonal-maladies