Winter Health Care Tips:  Winter season not only causes cough and cold, but many other problems can also increase. These problems also include asthma and bronchitis. Yes, the symptoms of these respiratory diseases can increase in the cold season (Winter Health Tips For Asthma Patients), due to which a person can face a lot of trouble. To know why this happens and how to prevent it (Winter Asthma Tips), we spoke to Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Grover (Head of Pulmonology and Critical Care at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram). Let's find out. 

Why can asthma and bronchitis become severe in winter?

• Cold air and inflammation- Cold air constricts the respiratory tract, making it difficult to breathe. Due to this, asthma and bronchitis patients have to face a lot of trouble. Bronchitis patients may experience increased bronchial spasms and phlegm in winter. Due to this, breathing problems may begin.
• Low humidity- Cold air has less humidity, which makes the respiratory tract dry and irritated. This causes inflammation and mucus production. This leads to coughing and difficulty in breathing.
• Viral Infection – The risk of viral infection increases in the winter season, which can make the symptoms of asthma and bronchitis more severe.
• Allergies – Spending more time indoors during the cold season increases the chances of exposure to allergens like house dust, pet hair, etc., which can trigger an asthma attack.
• Use of heaters- Heaters are used a lot in homes to keep oneself warm during winters. The use of heaters makes the air more dry, which can cause breathing problems.

What things should asthma and bronchitis patients keep in mind during winter?

• Wear a scarf- Before going out in winter, tie a scarf over your mouth and nose. This will warm the incoming air and prevent the symptoms of asthma and bronchitis from becoming severe.
• Go out less- Try to go out less. Especially if there is a lot of pollution and cold outside.
• Keep the air of the house clean- Use air purifier to keep the air inside the house clean . Also, clean the dust and dirt inside the house and do not burn incense sticks, candles etc.
• Keep the windows closed- Keep the windows of your house closed in the morning and evening. This will prevent cold air and pollutants from entering the house.
• Take vaccines- Take vaccines for diseases like flu and pneumonia. This will reduce the risk of infection.
• Inhaler- Always keep your inhaler with you and take medicines on time.
• Drink water- Try to keep yourself hydrated so that the mucus in your throat does not increase. Also, eat healthy food.
• Pay attention to symptoms – Asthma and bronchitis patients should pay attention to their symptoms and contact the doctor from time to time.