How COPD patients can respond when seasons change

A friend asked me if there is still time to get this season’s flu shot. That got me thinking about the issues that come with the shift from winter to spring and summer for those of us with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

First, about that question on the flu shot: It’s not too late. In flu seasons from 1982-2022, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, March has been the peak month for cases six times. (February and December have been the peak months more often, with January tying March.)

This March, though I’m seeing the daffodils and crocuses peeking up from the ground here in West Virginia, we still have snow, freezing temperatures, and wind. Cold, dry air does not play well with the lungs. Those of us with COPD especially need to protect our lungs from damage; one way is to cover our nose and mouth with a scarf, mask, or both when we venture into the wintry blast.

As part of winter’s end, many of us are still experiencing warm air inside our homes. That air tends to be arid, so we may need to humidify it. Those who use oxygen can request a humidifier bottle from an oxygen supplier.

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As spring approaches

Even if the approaching spring is making itself known with warmer weather and beautiful blooms in your neck of the woods, you still may have days when you need a jacket in the morning and wish you could take it off by noon. Fluctuating spring temperatures can cause breathing issues because it’s difficult for the body to keep up with the changes.

Let’s not forget the big elephant in the season-change room: allergies. They can cause airway inflammation and worsen COPD symptoms. The best defense against allergens is to avoid them as much as possible. My pulmonologist suggests that I dampen a new N95 mask and wear it when I work in my flower beds and vegetable garden.

I find that over-the-counter allergy medications make my life a lot more enjoyable during spring. I also check my local weather reports and stay inside when the pollen count is high.

Once we get to the heat and high humidity summer, we should still take precautions. Telling others the air is too thick to breathe may confuse them, but we who experience it understand. And, of course, we should observe the standard heat warnings and advice to stay cool. Heat can lead to heat stroke and heat exhaustion, after all. If you don’t have air conditioning, your community might have cooling stations. Many people use stores and malls as another source of coolness.

Whatever the weather, consider the conditions and plan and act accordingly as we approach this seasonal transition.

Note: COPD News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of COPD News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.