Just as you prepare your vehicle and home for winter, you should also start thinking about ways to safeguard your lung health as cold weather approaches. Winter’s chill can worsen symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Here are tips to keep COPD symptoms under control this season.

Cold Weather Worsens Flare-Ups

People with COPD are at an increased risk for flare-ups — suddenly worsening symptoms — during the winter. Cold and dry winter air can irritate your airways and make it difficult to breathe.

Plus, the cold weather months are peak season for the flu and other respiratory viruses. These illnesses are a major cause of flare-ups.

Common warning signs of a flare-up include:

• Breathlessness
• Increased or decreased sputum (also known as phlegm)
• Increased coughing
• Change in sputum color

Seek treatment right away if you experience any of these symptoms. Untreated flare-ups can become very serious and even interfere with your lung function.

Tips to Help You Breathe Easier

To lower your risk for problems related to winter weather:

• Watch the local forecast and avoid going out on the coldest days if possible.
• Keep an eye on the air quality index — air pollution can be high in winter due to an increase in wood burning. You can check the daily air quality at airnow.gov.
• If you do need to go out, bundle up. Wear a face mask or wrap a scarf around your nose and mouth to humidify the air you breathe in.
• Always bring medications with you when you head outdoors.
• Take steps to lower your risk of catching the cold and flu. Get a flu shot if you haven’t already. Avoid crowds during winter months. Wash your hands often or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid getting cozy by the fireplace. While this may seem like a great way to snuggle up and get warm, the smoke and particles can irritate your lungs. Opt for a warm blanket instead.

Call your healthcare provider right away if symptoms of a flare-up keep getting worse or if you develop a fever.