Winter and Asthma

• Cold weather: breathing in cold air can irritate the airways and trigger asthma symptoms for many people, especially when it is also dry outside


• Colds and infections: respiratory infections can narrow the airways, which may make asthma symptoms worse

Tips for Managing Asthma in Winter

What can you do if your child’s asthma gets worse in winter? Here are a few steps you can take to avoid problems during the colder months.

• Get flu shots: the seasonal flu vaccine can’t protect your child against every infection, but it can reduce the chances of catching the most common strains of flu that are circulating each year.


• Avoid infections: you can’t stop every cough and cold, but simple steps like avoiding people who are sick and washing hands regularly can reduce the chances of catching a respiratory infection.


• Watch the weather: if the forecast says it’s going to be particularly cold, then keep your child indoors as much as possible. There are plenty of things you can do inside, including physical activities like rock-climbing or trampolining as well as visiting museums, playing games, reading or watching films.


• Wrap up with a scarf: wrapping up warm is important when your child does have to go out in the cold. The scarf is the most important part of this. Teach your child to wear the scarf over their mouth when it’s chilly so that the air they’re breathing in is a little bit warmer. It’s also a good idea to avoid deep breaths, so try to avoid any strenuous activities outdoors in cold weather.


• Talk to your doctor: if you’re concerned about your child’s asthma or you need more advice on coping with it in winter, then you can always get in touch with your doctor. Make sure that you’re on top of your child’s medication and asthma action plan too. If they use a preventer inhaler, then make extra sure they’re using it as directed when the weather is cold.