What should you know about winter asthma?

Cold, dry air can irritate sensitive airways, particularly during exercise or when breathing quickly outdoors. Respiratory infections are another frequent trigger for people with asthma. More time indoors can increase exposure to dust, smoke, fragrances, dampness, or pets. People with asthma may notice wheezing, cough, chest tightness or shortness of breath when their airways narrow and become inflamed.

Symptoms that occur at night, interrupt activity, or require your reliever medicine more often can signal that your asthma plan needs review. A cough alone can have causes other than asthma, so a clinician may consider the wider pattern.

Keep your prescribed preventer and reliever medicines available, and use them exactly as your written asthma plan says. Check inhaler technique with a pharmacist or clinician; poor technique can leave medicine in the mouth rather than reaching the lungs. Covering your nose and mouth with a scarf outdoors may help warm the air you breathe. Allow time to warm up before exercise and avoid smoke exposure.

Arrange a routine review if your symptoms change with the season. Your clinician can update the plan, review triggers, and check whether allergic rhinitis or another condition is adding to the problem.

Seek urgent care if you are struggling to speak in full sentences, have severe breathlessness, notice blue or grey lips, feel drowsy or confused, or your reliever medicine is not helping as directed in your action plan. Worsening wheeze or chest tightness should be assessed promptly, particularly with fever or a respiratory infection.

Ask for a personalised written action plan, a demonstration of your inhaler technique, and advice on exercise in cold air. Mention night symptoms, rescue inhaler use, workplace exposures, and any nasal allergy symptoms.