Breathing Easier in Winter With Asthma and COPD

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Winter can be a beautiful time of year, but for people living with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cold weather can bring real challenges. Low temperatures, dry air, high winds and an increase in respiratory infections can all trigger symptoms like coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Fortunately, with the right preparation and awareness, people with chronic lung conditions can reduce their risk of flare-ups and stay comfortable throughout the colder months.

Why cold weather affects breathing

Cold air is often dry, and when it is inhaled, it can irritate the airways. This irritation may cause the muscles around the airways to tighten, a reaction known as bronchospasm. For people with asthma, this can lead to sudden breathing difficulties. In those with COPD, cold air may thicken mucus and make it harder to clear from the lungs, increasing coughing and congestion.

Winter also tends to keep people indoors more often. While this might limit exposure to outdoor cold, it can increase exposure to indoor triggers such as dust mites, pet dander, mold and smoke. In addition, viral infections like colds, flu and COVID-19 are more common in winter, and these illnesses can significantly worsen symptoms in individuals with asthma and COPD.

Tip 1: Cover your mouth and nose outdoors

One of the easiest ways to warm the air before it reaches your lungs is to cover your mouth and nose with a scarf, mask or cold-weather neck gaiter. This simple step helps trap warmth and add moisture to the air you breathe, reducing irritation to the airways. A loosely wrapped scarf over the lower face can make a noticeable difference.

Tip 2: Stick to your treatment plan

Colder weather is not the time to skip or reduce medications. Controller inhalers, long-acting bronchodilators, and other prescribed treatments work best when used consistently, even when you feel well. Make sure you have a full supply of all medications, including rescue inhalers and keep them accessible — especially when leaving home.

If you have an asthma or COPD action plan from your health care provider, review it at the start of the season so you know exactly what to do if symptoms worsen.

Tip 3: Avoid sudden temperature changes

Moving quickly from a warm indoor space into frigid outdoor air, or vice versa, can shock the airways and trigger symptoms. When possible, give your body time to adjust. For example, wait a moment in a cool entryway before heading outside or avoid standing right next to blasting heat vents when coming in from the cold.

Tip 4: Prepare your lungs before outdoor activity

If you plan to exercise or do chores outdoors, warm up indoors first. Gentle stretching and slow movement help the lungs and body adjust. Some people with asthma may benefit from using a rescue inhaler 10 to 15 minutes before cold-weather exercise, but this should only be done according to their doctor’s instructions.

Tip 5: Keep indoor air clean and humidified

Indoor air can become very dry in the winter due to heating systems, which may irritate the lungs and throat. A humidifier can help add moisture to the air, but it’s important to keep it clean to prevent mold and bacterial growth.

In addition, regularly vacuuming, washing bedding in hot water and using air purifiers can reduce allergens that may worsen breathing issues. Avoid smoking or burning wood indoors, as smoke can severely irritate the airways.

Tip 6: Stay up to date on vaccinations

Respiratory infections can be especially dangerous for people with asthma and COPD. Annual flu vaccines, COVID-19 boosters (when recommended) and pneumococcal vaccines can help prevent serious illness. Washing hands frequently and avoiding close contact with sick individuals adds another layer of protection.

Tip 7: Know when to get help

If symptoms become more severe than usual — such as increased shortness of breath, persistent coughing, changes in mucus color or amount, or difficulty completing simple tasks — it may be time to contact a health care provider. Recognizing and treating a flare-up early can prevent hospitalization and complications.