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How Does Weather Affect COPD?

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.

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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Crucial Facts!

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a systemic and disabling fatal condition with a progressive course, characterized by lung function impairment with not fully reversible airflow limitation. It represents a major health problem worldwide and it is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality.  Many, who suffer from such a condition, have a combination of emphysema, chronic bronchitis and asthma. You may also hear COPD referred to as COAD (Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease), COLD (Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) or CAL (Chronic Airways Limitation).

People at Risk

Most people who have COPD smoke or used to smoke. People who have a family history are more likely to develop the disease if they also smoke.Long-term exposure to other lung irritants may also be a factor. Examples of other lung irritants include passive smoking, air pollution and chemical fumes and dust from the environment or workplace. Most people who suffer from such a condition are at least 40 years old when symptoms begin. Although uncommon, people younger than 40 can also suffer from this condition.

Symptoms of COPD   

COPD symptoms include the following: Shortness of breath is the COPD symptom that most undiagnosed people go to see a doctor. At first, shortness of breath is only noticeable with physical exertion but eventually, breathlessness will hamper routine activities of living, like washing, dressing and cooking. A chronic cough may at first be irregular but later may occur every day. Also Read: Signs to Stop Water Fasting: Boundary Between Health and Harm

Testing for COPD

If your doctor thinks you may have COPD, he or she may recommend a test called spirometry. It is also called Pulmonary Function Testing.Spirometry testing may be done in your doctor’s office or in a hospital. During the test: Also Read: Vitamin E for Hair: A Detailed Guide on its Benefits and Usage

Treating COPD

There is no cure for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Damage done to the lungs is permanent and causes air to be trapped in the lungs even after a person exhales, resulting in shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. While treatments can help to alleviate symptoms and improve airflow, they may not cure them. Prevention is the best cure: don’t smoke or stop smoking immediately to reduce your risk for developing COPD.Also Read:  How Taekwondo Is The New Fitness Mantra For Heart, Body and MindDisclaimer:  The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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