With the coming of winter and decreased temperatures comes the increased incidence of bronchospasms and respiratory infections.
Patients who are adversely affected by the cold weather should dress warm, walk slower, stay out of the wind and when in the wind cover mouth with mask or scarf. There are several masks on the market today from your basic surgical mask to the 3M Micropore mask and the Airgard mask which is used to increase the humidity of the inspired air. Breathing through the mouth may be easier but if the inspired air is not properly humidified the cold air may cause bronchospasms, shortness of breath, and coughing.

The humidity indoors should be kept at an optimal level (about 45%). This can be done by attaching a humidifier to the furnace. If this method is used it is very important that the filters are changed at regular intervals. Small room humidifiers will also increase water vapor but are only effective in an enclosed area, usually one room. If this method is used it is very important that the water is changed daily, the humidifier cleaned, rinsed with white vinegar, and filled with sterile or distilled water. Failure to change the water and clean the humidifier daily will promote the growth of molds, flingi, and bacteria that can be sprayed throughout the room, therefore increasing the chance of respiratory infections.

Inadequate humidification of inspired air will lead to drying of the tracheobronchial tree which leads to: a) impairment of ciliary activity, b) impairment of mucus movement, c) inflammatory change and necrosis of ciliated pulmonary epithelium, d) retention of viscid, tenacious secretions with secondary incrustation, e) bacterial infiltration of mucosa, and f) atelectasis, all leading to respiratory infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, etc.

Patients that are at high risk of getting a respiratory infection should avoid large closed gatherings and individuals with upper respiratory tract infections. If the patient is taking prescribed home antibiotic therapy the patient should follow his or her physician's directions. Any noticeable changes in the amount, color, smell, or thickness of the patient's sputum should be reported to his or her physician.

Finally, inadequate nutrition can have a negative impact on the immune defense system of the body, therefore decreasing the body's ability to fight off infections.

The winter months can be a very frustrating time for patients with respiratory diseases, but by following the tips presented the patient may be able to decrease the level of frustration by decreasing the risk of bronchospasms and respiratory infections.