How Do Autumnal Weather Changes Impact Respiratory Health?

With the whiff of pumpkin spice in the air and the spooky promise of Halloween around the corner, autumn can take your breath in more ways than one. The new season introduces a new set of challenges for people with respiratory issues. Regular medical checkups and assistance from resources like Anytime Doctor can help with addressing any respiratory health issues that may arise due to seasonal changes in a timely fashion.

The Impact of Colder Temperatures

The crisp autumn air is not only colder but also a lot less humid. Since dry air can cause irritation to the nasal passage and the respiratory pathway, many suffer in the autumnal weather. This can end up causing a feeling of dryness or congestion. It can even develop into nosebleeds. 

With the chill outside, people spend more time indoors. This increases their exposure to indoor allergens like dust, mould, and dander. For people with allergen sensitivity, this could trigger respiratory issues or even an allergy attack.

Seasonal Change and the Flu

Respiratory viruses such as the influenza virus and the virus for the common cold can spread a lot easier in autumn conditions. Lowered temperature as well as decreased humidity can help them spread. With seasonal change, you may see symptoms caused by viral pathogens. These include cough, sore throat, fever, and congestion.

Asthma Exacerbation

People who suffer from asthma experience exacerbated symptoms in autumn. The colder temperatures of the air cause airway constriction, effectively reducing airflow. This can have results ranging from wheezing and coughing to labored breathing. Increased exposure to allergens can also cause increased asthma attacks in people already asthmatic or susceptible to these attacks.

Possible Risk of Pneumonia

Immunocompromised people become more easily susceptible to pneumonia during the autumn. Even a regular immune system can become weakened during changing seasons. The cold can wreak havoc on one’s lungs if they contract pneumonia in this weakened state.

Protecting Respiratory Health in Autumn

• Drink adequate fluids, as this keeps the nasal pathway moist. That in turn reduces dryness and irritation.
• Keep in a good humidifier to restore the humidity levels of your room even in the cool dry weather, keeping dryness at bay.
• If you are in a crowded space, or if you need to go out when there is an infectious outbreak going on, make sure you wear your mask. This will keep you relatively protected from airborne pathogens.
• If your medical provider has recommended immunizations for you, it is advisable to stay updated on them. Get your vaccines to avoid the flu. 
• For people with allergies, careful management can lead to results. Avoid exposure to allergens and stock up on any prescribed allergy medications during autumn.
• Smoking hurts your cardiovascular and respiratory health, and quitting can improve your respiratory well-being.
• Regular exercise can help your respiratory health be more robust.

Conclusion

By careful planning and taking proactive measures, you can minimize the impact of autumnal weather changes on your respiratory health. If you experience prolonged respiratory issues, be sure to consult your medical care provider.