A person’s breathing can easily be affected by changes in the weather. From the hot, dry climate of a desert to the moist, humid atmosphere of coastal regions, changes in weather bring about challenges for people with existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The type and quality of air we take in can significantly affect our breathing. For example, at high altitudes (over 8000 feet), lower air pressure causes our lungs to take in more air than usual, leading to an increased need for oxygen intake. Here are six ways the weather can impact our breathing and exacerbate breathing issues

1. Dry air and low humidity
When the air is dry, the humidity is low. According to doctors, asthma symptoms, particularly asthma attacks, can be triggered by cold, dry air. This is because low humidity causes the fluid in the bronchial tubes to evaporate, often irritating the airways. Additionally, we are more prone to dehydration when the air is dry and low in humidity, so make sure to always drink enough water

2. Sudden changes in barometric pressure
This is also referred to as astronomical wind. An increase in barometric pressure (lower than usual) causes air to be pulled into the lungs. However, if the pressure suddenly drops, the air is ejected from the lungs. Sudden changes in atmospheric pressure can precede extreme weather, such as a storm. When these shifts take place, existing respiratory issues can worsen and breathing problems can occur

3. High pollen
It’s common for trees to release pollen during certain seasons of the year, such as spring. Some trees will remove their pollen daily. Unfortunately, this can lead to breathing issues for people who suffer from severe breathing problems, such as frequent asthma attacks

4. Cold temperatures
Cold air and low temperatures can trigger symptoms of a respiratory infection. When the temperature is low, your body does not have enough body heat to fight off infections effectively. If you already suffer from COPD, you may be more susceptible to lung infections during the colder months.

5. Hot and humid weather
When the air is humid, the body will react by increasing mucus production and secretions from the nose. In addition, hot weather can exacerbate asthma symptoms, particularly if you become dehydrated. High sun days can also cause an increase in air pollutants, which can trigger an asthma attack.

6. Rainy weather
When rain is heavy, humidity is high. According to the Cleveland Clinic, patients with COPD and asthma are particularly at risk of shortness of breath and impaired breathing when there are changes in humidity, temperature, and pollen counts, all of which are common during rainy weather.

Cold weather, high pollen count, heat, humid weather, and rain can trigger various respiratory problems. If you live in a region experiencing these conditions, you should be very careful to avoid exposure to these triggers. One of the most important things you can do is keep your house as cool as possible with air conditioning or fans.