Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a term that is used to describe progressive lung diseases that impact people. A few diseases that fall under the COPD umbrella include refractory asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. One of the most common symptoms of COPD is breathlessness, which is essentially caused by the airways of the lungs getting damaged. At present, authorities have estimated that nearly 30 million people in the US alone are affected by COPD. Between 80% and 90% of all COPD cases are caused as a result of smoking. Early screening can help detect COPD before the affected individual’s health deteriorates significantly. The WHO, however, has estimated that the death toll as a result of COPD could rise by as much as 30% over the course of the decade.
Symptoms
A number of people with COPD don’t realize they suffer from the condition because the symptoms often creep up on them gradually. One of the most commonly reported symptoms of COPD is shortness of breath, followed by chronic cough and wheezing. Many people with COPD find that their symptoms become worse in the summer as humid and hot weather makes breathing difficult.
So, if one is experiencing any of the hallmark symptoms associated with COPD, it’s important that they make an appointment with their doctor. Keep in mind that COPD, if left untreated, can expose the lungs to further damage.
Summer-Specific Triggers
A number of people with COPD have a hard time managing their symptoms during summer. This is because our body works extra hard to cool off our vital organs as the temperature rises. To do this, we need more oxygen, which means our lungs have to be functioning at their peak to meet this increased demand. Damaged lungs are unable to keep up with the demands of our body during the summer, which is why many people report more severe symptoms as the temperature goes up.
Tips to Manage COPD in The Summer
Stay Indoors
The easiest way to lessen the symptoms of COPD is by staying out of the sun. Ideally, people with COPD should try to maintain a body temperature of 98.6 degrees or below. This can be achieved by using an air conditioner or taking cold showers.
Drink a Lot of Water
Another important way to help the body regulate its temperature is by drinking plenty of fluids. Most doctors recommend that people with COPD drink at least eight glasses of water every day. Affected individuals should also ensure that they carry a refillable water bottle with them at all times, so they can stay hydrated.
Check the Weather Forecast
People suffering from COPD should follow weather updates so they can dress appropriately and avoid places that are too hot or have intense humidity. Preparing in advance will help one live their life as normally as possible.
Stay Active
When one has COPD, maintaining a healthy lifestyle may seem extremely challenging. However, regular physical activity, including cardio exercises, can help strengthen the lungs, which can make breathing easier over time. If one is not used to exercising, it can help to start slow.
Avoid Allergens
People with COPD find it especially difficult to deal with allergens, which are in full force during the summer months. One way to avoid allergens is by staying indoors between 10 am and 5 pm, which is when pollen levels are the highest. People with COPD should also avoid stepping out when it’s windy.
Don’t Inhale Anything that Can Irritate the Lungs
A great way to protect oneself during warm weather is to avoid inhaling anything that can irritate the lungs. So, make sure to stay away from smoke, fertilizer fumes, and aerosols. Not everyone reacts adversely to scents, but it’s best to avoid them altogether if one has COPD.
Keep the Inhaler, Oxygen Concentrator, or Nebulizer Handy
People with COPD often get prescribed nebulizers or inhalers to ease breathing. Make sure to always keep these, as well as medications, handy at all times. It’s also important to check that the equipment works and, possibly, even keep a spare ready.
