Coping with COPD in Winter: Staying Safe and Breathing Easy

June 19, 2025

Winter can be a difficult time for those living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The cold air, dry indoor environments, and increased risk of respiratory infections can significantly worsen symptoms, making breathing more difficult and potentially triggering exacerbations. However, with the right strategies, people with COPD can navigate the winter months safely and comfortably.

…Physiotherapists can guide you on how to perform daily activities with less effort…

Why Winter Is Challenging for COPD Patients

Cold Air Constriction (bronchoconstriction)
Cold air can cause the airways to constrict, leading to shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. Even a short exposure to frigid air can lead to discomfort or a flare-up. (1)
Increased Risk of Infections
Flu, colds, and respiratory infections are more common in winter and can be particularly dangerous for people with COPD, potentially leading to hospitalization. (2)
Decreased Physical Activity
Cold weather can discourage outdoor activity, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle, which can weaken the lungs and reduce overall stamina.
Increased exacerbation rates

Several studies have demonstrated a link between lower temperatures and increased COPD exacerbation rates. For example, one study found that a 1°C decrease in air temperature was associated with a 0.8% increase in COPD exacerbation rate. (3)

How Physiotherapy Helps Manage COPD in Winter

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in COPD care year-round, but it can be especially beneficial during winter when symptoms often worsen. Here’s how:

Improved Airway Clearance
Physiotherapists can teach techniques such as chest physiotherapy, postural drainage, and breathing exercises that help clear mucus from the lungs—critical during winter when infections are more common.
Breathing Techniques
Techniques like pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing improve oxygen efficiency and help reduce breathlessness, especially when triggered by cold air.
Exercise Programs
Customized indoor exercise routines prescribed by a physiotherapist help maintain physical fitness and lung function, reducing the risk of deconditioning during the colder months.
Energy Conservation Strategies
Physiotherapists can guide you on how to perform daily activities with less effort, conserving energy while maintaining independence.
Education and Monitoring
They can help you recognize early signs of exacerbation and advise on when to escalate care—empowering you to take control of your condition.
Psychological Support
Engaging in physiotherapy can boost confidence, reduce anxiety related to breathlessness, and offer structured, supportive care through the winter.

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Tips for Managing COPD in Winter

1. Bundle Up Wisely
  Always cover your nose and mouth with a scarf when going outside. This helps warm the air before it reaches your lungs. Dress in layers to protect your body from sudden temperature changes.
2. Use a Humidifier Indoors
  Keeping the indoor air moist (ideally between 30–50% humidity) can ease breathing and reduce irritation. Be sure to clean humidifiers regularly to prevent mold and bacteria buildup.
3. Get Vaccinated
  Stay up to date with flu and pneumonia vaccines. These are essential for preventing infections that could cause serious complications in people with COPD.
4. Stay Active Indoors
  Find ways to keep moving indoors. Light exercises, stretching, or walking around your home can help maintain lung health and circulation.
5. Have an Action Plan
  Know the signs of an exacerbation—like increased shortness of breath, more frequent coughing, or changes in mucus—and have a plan in place with your healthcare provider.

When to Call Your Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience:

- Sudden or severe shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- High fever
- Confusion or drowsiness
- Worsening cough or mucus production

Conclusion

Living with COPD during winter requires extra care, but it’s manageable with the right approach. In addition to lifestyle adjustments and medical precautions, physiotherapy can be a powerful tool—helping you breathe easier, move more comfortably, and stay in control of your condition. Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor for a referral to a physiotherapist this season.

References

D’Amato, M., Molino, A., Calabrese, G., Cecchi, L., Annesi-Maesano, I., & D’Amato, G. (2018). The impact of cold on the respiratory tract and its consequences to respiratory health. Clinical and translational allergy, 8, 20. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13601-018-0208-9

Xu, J., Xu, G., Liu, Z., Hou, R., Ji, J. S., & Huang, C. (2025). COPD risk due to extreme temperature exposure: combining epidemiological evidence with pathophysiological mechanisms. EBioMedicine, 116, 105731. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ebiom.2025.105731

Tseng, C. M., Chen, Y. T., Ou, S. M., Hsiao, Y. H., Li, S. Y., Wang, S. J., Yang, A. C., Chen, T. J., & Perng, D. W. (2013). The effect of cold temperature on increased exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a nationwide study. PloS one, 8(3), e57066. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0057066

For More Help:

For more information and help, please contact Helanie at the Wellington Branch.

Helanie

Physiotherapist & Practice Owner