Expert Chest Care at Ohri Hospital, Amritsar
Cold weather can be refreshing, but it can also put extra stress on your lungs and chest. For people with existing chest or lung problems, cold air can trigger symptoms or worsen conditions. According to Dr. Pardeep Ohri, a leading chest specialist at Ohri Hospital, Amritsar, understanding how cold weather affects the respiratory system can help prevent complications and maintain lung health.
How Cold Air Impacts the Lungs
When we inhale cold air, the airways in our lungs constrict to conserve heat. This narrowing can increase breathing difficulty, especially in patients with asthma, bronchitis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Cold air also reduces moisture in the respiratory tract, making the lungs more vulnerable to infections and irritation.
Key Effects of Cold Air on Lungs:
- Tightening of airways (bronchoconstriction)
- Reduced oxygen exchange
- Increased risk of asthma attacks or flare-ups
- Dryness and irritation of the respiratory tract
Increased Risk of Chest Infections
Winter months often bring a higher risk of respiratory infections, including influenza, pneumonia, and bronchitis. Cold air weakens the natural defences of the respiratory system, making it easier for bacteria and viruses to invade the lungs. Even mild chest infections can become serious for people with pre-existing conditions like COPD or heart disease.
Tips to Reduce Risk of Infection:
- Wash hands regularly with soap and water
- Avoid close contact with sick individuals
- Get seasonal flu and pneumonia vaccines
- Keep indoor spaces warm and well-ventilated
Effects on People with Asthma and COPD
Patients with asthma or COPD are particularly sensitive to cold air. Exposure can trigger sudden wheezing, cough, or shortness of breath, and may lead to severe flare-ups.
Preventive Measures for Asthma/COPD Patients:
- Always carry prescribed inhalers
- Avoid outdoor activities in extremely cold air
- Wear scarves or masks over the mouth and nose to warm the air before inhaling
- Follow your doctor’s treatment plan and medication schedule
How Cold Weather Affects Healthy Lungs
Even for people without lung disease, cold air can cause temporary discomfort, including:
- Shortness of breath during physical activity
- Chest tightness or mild coughing
- Dry throat and irritation in airways
Simple Steps for Healthy Individuals:
- Warm up before outdoor exercise
- Cover mouth and nose with a scarf
- Stay hydrated to maintain airway moisture
Lifestyle and Indoor Habits for Winter Lung Care
Proper care at home can help maintain lung and chest health during winter.
Recommendations:
- Keep indoor air humid using a humidifier
- Avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke
- Eat a diet rich in antioxidants and vitamins to strengthen immunity
- Exercise regularly indoors if the outdoor air is too cold
- Monitor any persistent cough or breathing difficulty and consult a doctor
When to See Dr. Pardeep Ohri
Persistent shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest tightness during winter may indicate an underlying issue that needs attention. At Ohri Hospital, Amritsar, Dr. Pardeep Ohri provides comprehensive chest care, treating conditions like asthma, COPD, bronchitis, pneumonia, and other lung-related issues with advanced diagnostic tools and treatment plans.
Early consultation helps prevent complications and keeps the lungs healthy throughout winter.
Final Advice
Cold weather affects lung and chest health by constricting airways, increasing the risk of infections, and triggering flare-ups in patients with chronic conditions. Awareness, preventive measures, and timely consultation with a chest specialist like Dr. Pardeep Ohri can ensure safe and healthy winters.
