Why Respiratory Problems Increase in Winter? Causes, Symptoms & Expert Advice

By Dr. Onkar Jha – Consultant Pulmonologist, Ranchi

🔶 Why Do Lung Problems Increase in Winter?

Winter is one of the toughest seasons for people with respiratory issues like asthma, COPD, bronchitis, allergic cough, or lung infections. According to Dr. Onkar Jha, one of the best pulmonologists in Ranchi, cold air directly irritates the airways, making breathing difficult.

Here’s why winter worsens lung diseases:

1️⃣ Cold Air Narrows Airways

Breathing cold air makes the air tubes tighten, leading to:

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness

This is especially dangerous for asthma and COPD patients.

2️⃣ Pollution & Smog Increase in Winter

Low temperatures trap pollutants near ground level, increasing exposure to:

• Smoke
• Dust
• Industrial pollution
• Vehicle emissions

These irritants easily trigger bronchospasm and worsen COPD attacks.

3️⃣ Viral Infections Spread Faster

Winter increases infections like:

• Flu
• Viral fever
• Pneumonia
• RSV
• Allergic cold

These infections affect people with weak lungs more severely.

4️⃣ Indoor Air Quality Becomes Poor

People stay indoors, leading to:

• Low ventilation
• Dust accumulation
• Pet dander
• Mold exposure

This increases allergic cough, sinus issues, and asthma flare-ups.

5️⃣ Reduced Immunity in Winter

Body immunity drops slightly in cold weather, making lungs more prone to:

• Infections
• Acute bronchitis
• COPD exacerbations

🔶 Common Symptoms to Watch Out For

• Constant coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Fever or chills
• Tightness in chest
• Phlegm production
• Fatigue

If symptoms last more than 2–3 days, consult a specialist immediately.

🔶 Who Is at High Risk in Winter?

• Smokers
• COPD patients
• Asthma patients
• Senior citizens
• Children
• People with dust/pet allergies
• Diabetics & heart patients

🔶 Tips to Protect Your Lungs This Winter – Expert Advice by Dr. Onkar Jha

✔ Wear a Mask Outdoors

Protects from cold air + pollution.

✔ Stay Hydrated

Keeps mucus thin and reduces coughing.

✔ Use Your Inhaler Regularly

Never skip inhaled medications during winter.

✔ Avoid Early Morning & Late Night Exposure

These are the coldest times of day.

✔ Maintain Room Ventilation

Avoid smoke, incense, or dust inside home.

✔ Get Flu & Pneumonia Vaccination

Recommended for COPD, asthma, and elderly patients.

✔ Quit Smoking

Nothing damages lungs faster during winter.

🔶 When to Visit a Pulmonologist?

Seek immediate care if you experience:

• Breathlessness at rest
• Persistent cough more than 1 week
• Blood in sputum
• Chest pain
• High fever
• Repeated COPD/asthma attacks

Early treatment prevents lung damage and hospitalization.

🔶 Why Choose Dr. Onkar Jha?

• Experienced Pulmonologist & Chest Specialist in Ranchi
• Expert in COPD, Asthma, Allergy, Tuberculosis, Pneumonia, Sleep Apnea
• Advanced lung function testing
• Personalized treatment plans
• Patient-friendly approach

Dr. Jha emphasizes:

“Winter is the most challenging season for the lungs. Timely management and preventive care can completely avoid severe attacks.”