Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a term for several conditions that damage the lungs and make breathing difficult. These issues tend to grow worse over time.
When symptoms suddenly become more pronounced, a person is experiencing a COPD flare-up.
If a person does not receive treatment, a flare-up can require hospitalization, and it may even be life-threatening.
Symptoms of a COPD flare-up can include:
- more wheezing than usual
- increased mucus production
- persistent coughing
- severe shortness of breath
In this article, we discuss the effects of humidity on COPD and how managing indoor humidity levels may prevent flare-ups. Also, we describe other COPD triggers and when to see a doctor.
Can humidity trigger COPD symptoms?
Certain factors can trigger COPD flare-ups, including lung irritants, changes in weather, and infections.
Extremes in humidity can also cause COPD symptoms to worsen.
High humidity
High humidity levels may exacerbate symptoms for a variety of reasons. The body must work harder to breathe when humidity levels are high, especially when the air is hot.
Humid air is dense, due to the high water content. This density can increase airway resistance in the body. As a result, breathing may require more effort, which can worsen COPD symptoms, including shortness of breath and fatigue.
Humid, hot weather also requires the body to work harder to stay cool. Expending this energy requires more oxygen, which can contribute to feelings of breathlessness.
In a 2017 study, which included 82 people with COPD, researchers asked participants to record symptoms and indoor temperature and humidity levels every day for 18 months.
The results indicate that high humidity levels may contribute to exacerbated COPD symptoms.
Increased humidity may also encourage the growth of mold in the home or workplace, and mold is another common COPD trigger.
The disease causes the airways to become more sensitive. Common allergens, such as mold, can further irritate the lungs, prompting coughing, wheezing, and excess mucus production.
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), keeping indoor humidity levels below 60 percent can help prevent mold.
Low humidity
Very low humidity levels can also trigger or worsen symptoms of COPD. Dry air, especially if it is cold, can cause the airways to narrow, in an effect called a bronchospasm.
An increase in COPD symptoms can be serious and even potentially life-threatening. Consider seeing a doctor if symptoms include:
- changes in mucus production, including color, amount, and consistency
- more need for fast-acting inhalers
- fever
- shortness of breath that becomes worse or more frequent
- unexplained fatigue
- increased wheezing
A person may require emergency care if they experience:
- severe shortness of breath
- chest pain
- blue lips or fingernails
- confusion
Takeaway
Humidity, especially if it very high, can worsen COPD symptoms. Other common triggers include pollution, infection, and pollen.
A person can reduce indoor humidity by using an air conditioner or dehumidifier. Checking local weather reports can help determine when conditions are suitable.
Recognizing and treating a COPD flare-up, possibly with medical aid, can prevent symptoms from becoming life-threatening.
Source: Read Full Article