The changing of leaves signals the onset of fall and fall-like weather which indicates colder weather is around the corner. It’s not uncommon to feel flu-like symptoms or even develop a cold with this change. It’s also not uncommon for asthma suffers to start experiencing difficulties. This dip in temperature generally affects those who are asthmatic more since cold, dry air restricts airways that trigger an asthma attack.
A cold-weather asthma attack happens when your respiratory tract is irritated from colder temperatures. When the airway muscle spasms, it makes asthma symptoms difficult to control.
If you’re not careful, you’ll find yourself needing to wait until springtime before you can enjoy the outdoors again without the anxiety of having an attack.
Approximately 25 million Americans have asthma or 1 in 13, with more adult women reportedly living with asthma than their male counterparts. Those who live with asthma may find themselves much more susceptible to an unprovoked asthma attack if they’re not careful of certain irritants.
1. Breathing through your mouth
Breathing is automatic so you will need to pay attention to how you breathe. When you breathe in frosty air through your mouth, it doesn’t warm up in your nasal passages which irritate the respiratory system. It’s natural and healthier to breathe through your nose because it helps your body effectively use the air being inhaled.
Nose breathing also filters out foreign particles, humidify inhaled air and produces nitric oxide, a vasodilator, which means it helps to widen blood vessels. This helps improve oxygen circulation in your body.
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2. Outdoor Workouts
Fitness enthusiasts who have asthma should take note, their risks are heightened in the winter. It’s a good idea to consider moving activity indoors for the ease of breathing warmer air.
But, if you can’t resist that jog in the park or the refreshing atmospheric air, then consider warming up about 10 – 15 minutes before