5 winter asthma triggers and home remedies to fight dry air, indoor allergens, respiratory infections

Asthma triggers: Cold, dry air can irritate the airways, causing bronchoconstriction and triggering asthma symptoms. Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf or mask to warm the air before inhaling (Image: Canva)

Air pollution is a significant concern, particularly in winter, when smog levels tend to rise. The colder months trap pollutants closer to the ground, worsening air quality, especially in urban areas. This pollution can significantly affect respiratory health, aggravating asthma and causing other breathing difficulties. Poor air quality increases the risk of respiratory infections, which are already more prevalent in winter, making asthma management even more difficult.

In the winter months, the combination of cold air and air pollution can worsen asthma symptoms, says Padma Shri Dr. Mukesh Batra, Founder & Chairman Emeritus of Dr Batra’s Healthcare. He adds that people with asthma must take extra care during this season, monitoring their symptoms and ensuring they have proper treatment and preventive measures in place.

Dr Batra suggests 5 common winter triggers for asthma and remedies to reduce them:

• Cold and dry air: Cold, dry air can irritate the airways, causing bronchoconstriction and triggering asthma symptoms. Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf or mask to warm the air before inhaling. Use a humidifier indoors to keep air moisture levels optimal. Also, limit outdoor activities in extreme cold, particularly in early mornings or late evenings.

• Increased indoor allergens: Increased time indoors can expose individuals to dust mites, mould, and pet dander, common asthma triggers. Regularly clean with HEPA filters to remove allergens. Wash bedding, curtains, and fabrics in hot water to minimise dust mites. Plus, limit pets in bedrooms and use allergen-proof covers for mattresses and pillows.

• Physical exertion in cold weather: Physical activities in cold weather can trigger asthma symptoms. Warm up indoors before outdoor exercise to prepare your airways. Exercise indoors on very cold days. If exercising outdoors, wear a mask or scarf to protect your lungs.

• Respiratory infections: Respiratory infections like colds, flu, and bronchitis are more common in winter, and can trigger asthma. Consider homoeopathic remedies to address underlying asthma causes and symptoms. Maintain hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding crowded places. Keep asthma medication, including reliever inhalers, readily available.

• Stress and anxiety: The stress of the holiday season or anxiety from asthma symptoms can worsen the condition. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises. Plan your holidays to reduce stress and avoid overexertion. Ensure proper sleep to support overall health and reduce stress-induced symptoms.

• Hydration and nutrition: Staying hydrated is extremely important  in order to maintain healthy airways in winter. Additionally, including anti-inflammatory foods like ginger, garlic, and omega-3-rich foods helps reduce inflammation in the lungs. Plus, they also support the respiratory health and ease asthma symptoms during the colder months.