Surviving the Frozen Tundra
Surviving the Frozen Tundra: A Chronic Lung Warrior’s Guide to Keeping Your Breath From Freezing.
Let me take you back to a time that I personally experienced. Picture waking up to the delightful symphony of birds happily chirping outside your window, savoring the breakfast you've generously provided—a feast of seeds. A smile graces your face as the warmth of sunlight embraces you through the clear window. Not a cloud in sight, the sky is a beautiful brilliant blue just beckoning you to venture there.
The outside world looks breathtaking, and your body feels unusually rejuvenated, as if you've enjoyed a deep, blissful sleep without any coughing interruptions all night. Inspired, you decide to step outside with determination. You are ready to conquer the day!
But then, the cold, harsh reality of winter sets in. A sudden, relentless coughing fit overtakes you, robbing you of your breath. Your chest tightens, airways spasm, and thick mucus triggers a coughing, choking sensation in your throat. As if that's not enough, your sinuses transform into a relentless waterfall, threatening to drown you. Violently coughing and gasping for air, you stumble back inside. Your right hand fumbles for your inhaler, pushing it obnoxiously, desperately trying to feel the medication in your lungs. Meanwhile, your left hand clutches the nearest support to prevent you from falling over. Panic takes over your very soul as you concentrate on getting your next breath.
Gradually, you regain composure eventually managing to sit down and breath normally for you. Though the ordeal leaves you completely drained of any energy you woke up with. Peering outside, a mix of frustration and resignation washes over you. You contemplate hibernating until spring and ordering food instead. Preferably Taco Bell.
This is just one of the challenges people with lung diseases face on a daily basis during winter. If you've never experienced panic attacks or had coughing fits that tear a muscle. Then I can tell you that winter can bring about these struggles. Even those suffering from acute lung infections can relate to this sentiment.
Bottom line, cold weather wreaks havoc on lungs. The rapid changes in air temperature and humidity cause irritation and spasms throughout the lungs. This bronchospasm, the technical term, essentially means our airways tighten and narrow. The colder and drier the air, the more severe the spasms can be. Extreme cold weather can even be life-threatening not only for chronic lung disease sufferers but for healthy individuals.
For anyone dealing with chronic lung diseases or acute lung illnesses, the following tips may help minimize the risk of bronchospasms:
Best advice: STAY INSIDE! DON'T GO OUTSIDE AT ALL! Hibernate until spring if possible. However, if that's not an option, consider the following:
Wear a scarf, ski mask, or other covering over your nose and mouth. Knitted coverings are my “go-to” for better breath-ability.
Avoid strong perfumes or odors, such as smoke or diesel exhaust, which can contribute to lung irritation. It's advisable to steer clear of perfumes if you have lung issues. I prefer a lightly scented lotion instead.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Dehydration can worsen symptoms, making it harder to clear mucus during a coughing fit.
Consider taking medication to help thin secretions, such as Guaifenesin. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before adding any medications to your routine.
Exercise indoors, especially if you have chronic lung disease and are prone to severe bronchospasms.
Use your medications. If you must venture outside, ensure you have your rescue inhalers or oxygen, if used. Have an ample supply, especially for oxygen, as you may need to increase the flow during an attack.
Plan virtual doctor visits, and have items delivered instead of going out to pick them up. This is where I am back to using food delivery! Love it!!
Winter can be especially challenging for those with chronic lung conditions. Look out for yourself, communicate your limitations to those around you, and don't hesitate to suggest that others come to you instead of you going everywhere. There's no shame in prioritizing your health.