Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a blanket term that is used for some conditions related to the respiratory system, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD symptoms can be triggered by various causes such as cigarette or cigar smoke, smog or other kinds of air pollution, strong fumes from perfumes or other scented products.

COPD-related symptoms can become more aggravated due to changes in weather and extreme weather conditions. This is why COPD patients need to be especially careful about the weather. COPD patients need to look out for the temperature being too cold, too hot, too windy, and thunderstorms. Research in this area has shown the ideal temperature for COPD patients is around 21 degrees Celsius with a humidity of 40%. In such weather conditions, the body’s airways can be relaxed, minimising the chances of symptoms showing up.

When the weather is too cold

If the temperature falls below 0 degrees, then the level of humidity in the air also falls. A humidity level that is below 10% can cause mucous membranes to dry up. This type of dry air is likely to irritate air passages in your body, causing symptoms to flare up. A condition of low humidity caused by cold weather can also make it harder for your body to produce fluids that help it move viruses and bacteria. If you have COPD, you might also face allergy symptoms in such dry conditions.

Moreover, cold weather is often accompanied by strong winds. If the weather is cold and windy, and the patient has to walk against the wind, it can create resistance. Further, cold temperatures can also fatigue COPD patients quickly.

Temperature and weather can cause COPD symptoms to worsen. Cold, dry air or hot air can trigger a flare-up. According to a study, temperature extremes, below freezing and above 90°F (32°C), are particularly dangerous.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

When the weather is too hot

COPD symptoms can also increase significantly when the weather is too hot. Further, hot weather can also lead to high levels of humidity. For most COPD patients, high levels of humidity can also cause a greater incidence of symptoms.

Hot weather is especially a cause for concern when the temperature hits above 32 degrees Celsius. Breathing in hot air has been known to cause inflammation in the lining of airways in patients with COPD or asthma. Smog levels also commonly rise during the summer heat. Pollution in the air has been known to cause symptoms in COPD patients.

Prevention techniques

There are certain ways in which COPD patients can meet the challenges caused by the weather. These prevention techniques are in addition to any COPD treatment that you may be undertaking.

Moving or relocating

A common solution for COPD patients is to relocate to a geographic area where the weather is more suitable. However, moving or relocating can be a drastic step and moving your home is not the only solution to battle the weather for COPD patients. Further, relocating can be quite difficult since different COPD patients need different types of weather. For example, humidity can be a huge problem for certain COPD patients, while others may not get significantly affected.

Keep a tab on the weather

The best way to combat the weather as a COPD patient is to keep a daily tab on the weather forecast. You may need to plan your days around the weather to ensure smooth functioning. For example, you may want to do all your shopping on days when the weather is suitable.

Wear a scarf during cold weather

If the weather outside is cold, be sure to cover your nose and mouth with a scarf. This will warm and humidify the air before going into your airways and provide you with some protection.

Always carry your medication

If you’re stepping outside your home, remember to carry your medications regardless of the weather conditions. You never know when a change in the weather can cause your symptoms to act up.

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Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.