A doctor has issued a warning to those exercising in the winter, highlighting lesser-known symptoms to be aware of. As temperatures plummet, Dr Neel Patel, a GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, has shared advice for asthma sufferers who wish to remain active.
A recent survey from LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor revealed that 64% of individuals struggle more with regulating their breathing when exercising in cold weather, with 66% confessing they become breathless more rapidly. However, for asthma sufferers, these symptoms can intensify during winter.
Dr Patel has provided guidance on managing asthma in colder climates and offered tips to those who wish to stay active but find themselves quickly becoming short of breath. According to Dr Patel, asthma can worsen in winter.
He stated: “Exercising in cold weather is harder for everyone. But it can be even more of a problem if you have a lung condition. Asthma sufferers often find exercising in cold, dry air can cause a flare-up. Asthma and Lung UK found 70% of people with lung conditions said cold air worsened their symptoms,” reports the Mirror.
He added: “This is because cold, dry air can irritate your airways, worsening symptoms like wheezing, coughing and breathlessness. Plus, cold air can cause your airways to narrow. This can increase the amount of mucus you produce making it hard to breathe.”
While those with asthma can be affected, even individuals without the condition can experience symptoms of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction when trying to keep fit in cold weather. Dr Patel explained: “Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is the medical term for exercise-induced asthma. While up to 90% of people with asthma also have EIB, you may experience EIB even if you don’t have asthma.”
Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction symptoms
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Wheezing or shortness of breath
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Reduced endurance
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Chest tightness
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Cough
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Upset stomach
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Sore throat
Dr Patel advised: “Symptoms typically appear within minutes of starting exercise. They may continue for 10 to 15 minutes after you finish working out. You should consult your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.”
According to Dr Patel, exercise-induced bronchoconstriction is most likely to occur when running or cycling in polluted areas or playing outdoor sports. He noted: “Although pollen can also be a trigger. Sports played on ice or snow, such as ice hockey and cross-country skiing, are also common triggers.”
He further revealed that one could also experience EIB when working out indoors, for instance in a gym or swimming pool, as chemicals in chlorine, perfume, cleaning products, paint and new equipment can act as triggers.