Cold Air & Lung Health

As temperatures drop across New Brunswick, many people notice changes in their breathing. Cold air can feel sharp and uncomfortable in the lungs, and for people living with asthma, COPD, or other lung conditions, winter weather can increase symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Understanding why cold weather affects lung health — and how to protect yourself — can make a real difference during the winter months.

Cold air is typically dry, and when it is breathed in, it can irritate the airways. Your lungs must work harder to warm and moisten the air before it reaches deeper into the respiratory system. In people with sensitive or inflamed airways, this process can trigger tightening of the airways, making it more difficult to breathe. Physical activity outdoors and exposure to cold wind can increase this effect, especially during winter sports or brisk walks.

One of the simplest ways to protect your lungs in cold weather is to warm the air before you breathe it in. Covering your nose and mouth with a scarf, mask, or neck warmer helps trap warmth and moisture, reducing irritation to the airways. Breathing in through your nose rather than your mouth can also help, as the nasal passages naturally warm and humidify the air before it reaches your lungs.

For people with asthma or other chronic lung conditions, taking medications as prescribed is especially important during the winter. Daily controller medications help reduce airway inflammation, while quick-relief inhalers should always be easily accessible. Some people may benefit from using their quick-relief inhaler before going outdoors in cold weather, but this should be discussed with a healthcare provider to ensure it is appropriate for your individual treatment plan.

Staying active is important for overall health, but cold weather may require some adjustments. Warming up gradually before outdoor activity and avoiding sudden temperature changes can help prevent airway irritation. If possible, cooling down at the same outdoor temperature as your activity — rather than moving immediately into a warm indoor space — may also reduce stress on the airways.

Winter is also respiratory virus season, and infections such as colds and flu can be more serious for people with lung disease. Protecting your lungs includes staying up to date on vaccinations, practicing good hand hygiene, avoiding crowded indoor spaces when illness is circulating, and wearing a mask when needed. These steps help reduce the risk of infections that can worsen breathing symptoms.

If you find that cold weather consistently triggers breathing problems or limits your daily activities, it may be time to speak with your healthcare provider. Adjusting medications or developing a winter-specific management plan can help keep symptoms under control and improve quality of life throughout the colder months.

Cold weather is a part of life in New Brunswick, but struggling to breathe doesn’t have to be. With the right strategies and support, you can protect your lung health and stay well through the winter season.