Going out in the cold with emphysema

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. Bronchoconstriction is especially troublesome for people who have asthma or emphysema. In asthmatics, cold air may trigger an asthma attack. In people suffering from emphysema, cold air may cause respiratory distress. Depending on the extent of broncho-constriction and severity of the lung disease, exposure to cold air may lead to very serious consequences. It is far better to treat your emphysema seriously by avoiding cold weather conditions, that to avoid natural emphysema treatments and carry on as normal no matter what the weather is throwing at you.

Natural treatment of lung syndromes and diseases such as emphysema mean taking the changing seasons seriously. You should not be over exerting yourself in hot weather, when the stresses and strains of moving impact on your lungs more. Moreover, when cold weather hits, you should not let the wind and cold air get too close to your delicate lungs. Natural emphysema treatment is already about taking the appropriate action for the right conditions. So don't do anything sudden, or have long sessions of exposure to the elements when your emphysema condition would be sure to worsen.

This does not mean that you have to avoid going outside during the cold winter months. Use the following tips for natural emphysema treatment that focuses on breathing easier during cold weather. Wear a hood or some sort of head covering that covers the nose and mouth, exposing only the eyes. Buy a cold-air face mask from a drug store or medical supply store and wear it in cold weather. If you need to, you should remember to use your bronchodilator 30 minutes before going outside. Try breathing through your nose instead of your mouth because the nose warms the air as it enters the respiratory tract. As a natural method to avoid a seasonal deterioration of your emphysema, you should do all you can to follow this advice, and stay wrapped up warm when the frost hits the ground outside you. Then you can be sure to enjoy many more springs to follow.