Its not necessary that winter could be bad for all asthma patients.
Seasonal allergies are worst in April May or September October.
Perennial allergies persist throughout the year with seasonal aggravations.
Asthmatics do fear winters. Indoor allergens like molds , dust mites etc are more prevalent in winters and compulsion of staying indoors due to chill factor increases the exposure to indoor allergen. Dry heat as generated by electric blowers or heaters where humidity can not be adjusted make the atmosphere worst for the constriction of already susceptible airways of asthmatics. Even if heat is generated by burning coal the smoke causes bronco constriction. There are additional factors like more susceptibility to viral infections like that of influenza and others result into pneumonia , sinusitis , bronchitis, ear infections in children etc making the patient miserable.
Asthma patients should take adequate precautions to keep away from such adverse factors.
This can be achieved by keeping good nutrition and hydration. Drink more fluids in spite of no thirst. Take medications regularly. the high risk category patient should take Flu shots in October itself. Avoid exposure to extreme cold , take walks in the afternoon rather than morning or evening. keep ears and head covered which also forms the large surface area of body. Protect with multilayer clothing rather than using equipment generating dry heat. Do not over clothe children , this can result into fever resulting into unnecessary medication. See the doctor early , and always keep the emergency inhaler of salbutamol in pocket for ready use. Do stay outdoors for fresh air and sunlight which are the natural healers and immunity boosters.
