Emphysema: Does cold weather make it worse?

Does cold weather worsen emphysema symptoms? I'm thinking about moving from Florida to Indiana.

- Fran / Florida

Answer

It may. Breathing cold, dry air causes narrowing (constriction) of the airways in some people with emphysema. This restricts airflow into and out of the lungs and makes breathing more difficult. To reduce the effects of cold air on your breathing:

• Wear a cold-air face mask when you're outside. You should put the mask on before going out. Cold-air face masks are available at many drugstores and medical supply stores. If you don't have a mask, wear a soft scarf pulled over your nose and mouth.
• Breathe in through your nose instead of your mouth when you're outside. This helps warm and humidify the air before it enters your lungs.
• Use your bronchodilator about 30 minutes before going outside. A bronchodilator helps open constricted airways.

Before making a permanent move from a warm climate, your doctor may suggest that you spend some time in a cold climate to see how it affects your emphysema.

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