Medically reviewed by Teri Osterhout-Paton, RRT,CPFT,AE-C

Do you have trouble breathing when the temperature drops? You’re not alone. Cold, dry air can irritate the airways and trigger symptoms like coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath, especially for those with asthma. However, with the right precautions, you can stay active and comfortable all winter long. 

Why cold air triggers asthma 

During the winter months, the air you breathe is typically drier. When that chilly air enters your lungs, it can cause the muscles around your airways to tighten and produce extra mucus. For people with asthma, that combination can make it harder to breathe. Outdoor exercise, sudden temperature changes and exposure to cold viruses can make symptoms worse. 

Stay ahead of the weather 

The best way to manage asthma in winter is to plan ahead and stay consistent with your asthma management plan.   

• Check the forecast: If it’s particularly cold or windy, stay inside or shorten outdoor activity to prevent symptom flare-ups.   
• Warm up the car: be prepared, plan ahead.  Prestart the car so that you have a warm car to get into and out of when you do need to travel. 
• Breathe through your nose: This helps warm and humidify the air before it reaches your lungs. 
• Bundle up: A scarf or mask over your mouth and nose can add warmth and moisture to the air you breathe. 
• Use your inhaler as prescribed: Don’t skip your daily controller medication, even when you feel fine. 
• Keep your rescue inhaler handy: Cold air can trigger sudden symptoms, so make sure you have quick access to relief.  Remember to use your spacer or valved holding chamber with your inhaler; it can increase the amount of medication reaching your lungs by 70%. 
• Avoid smoke and strong scents: Fireplaces, scented candles, and other irritants can worsen asthma symptoms. 
• Get a flu shot: Respiratory infections can easily trigger asthma attacks, so staying up to date on vaccinations is key. 

Take precautions indoors, too 

Spending more time inside can also expose you to asthma triggers like dust, pet dander and mold. Manage your asthma symptoms indoors by:  

• Keeping humidity levels between 30-50% to avoid both dryness and mold growth 
• Cleaning air vents and changing filters regularly 
• Vacuuming and dusting frequently to reduce allergens 

Know when to seek help 

If you notice that your symptoms are becoming more frequent or severe, talk to your doctor. You may need to adjust your treatment plan or review your inhaler technique. With the right care, most people with asthma can breathe easy all year long, even in the coldest months. 

WMCHealth’s pulmonary specialists provide expert diagnosis, treatment, and management for asthma and other respiratory conditions. Learn more at WMCHealth or call 914.592.2400 to schedule an appointment.