Living Healthy With Asthma: Winter Gear
August 15, 2025
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide, including in China. Winter, with its cold air and the increase in infectious diseases such as influenza or HMPV, often aggravates asthma symptoms. As Dr. Zhang Weiming, with more than a decade of experience in the respiratory field at Shanghai People's Hospital, I would like to share effective asthma management methods so that you can get through the winter safely and healthily.
Understanding Asthma
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways, causing symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, especially at night or early morning. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 262 million people worldwide have asthma, and in China, the rate ranges from 1–4% of the population. Triggers such as cold air, respiratory viruses, or dust can trigger asthma attacks, especially in the winter when humidity is low and air pollution is high. Understanding the causes and how to manage them is the first step to controlling this condition.
Management
Use medications correctly: Inhaled corticosteroids (such as budesonide) help reduce airway inflammation, while bronchodilators (such as salbutamol) help relieve acute symptoms. I often teach patients how to use their inhalers correctly to ensure that the medication is maximally effective.
Monitor symptoms: Use a peak flow meter to check lung function at home. This device helps detect early signs of respiratory distress, allowing timely medication adjustments.
Avoid triggers: In the winter, keep warm by wearing a scarf over your mouth and nose when outdoors to warm the air you breathe in. Avoid exposure to dust or crowded spaces, and wear a medical mask when necessary.
Get a flu shot: Seasonal flu can aggravate asthma, especially in children and older adults. Annual vaccination is an important preventive measure, recommended by global health experts.
Practical experience
During my work at Shanghai People's Hospital, I treated hundreds of asthma cases every winter. One memorable case was a 65-year-old patient who was admitted with acute respiratory failure due to an asthma flare-up in the winter of 2024. Through bronchoscopy and oxygen therapy, I stabilized his condition, then developed a long-term management plan with inhalers and taught him proper breathing techniques. My experience at Harvard Medical School has equipped me with knowledge of advanced treatments, such as biologic therapy for severe asthma, which has significantly improved the quality of life for patients.
Expert advice
I always emphasize that asthma management is not just about medication but also about lifestyle changes. Maintaining a diet rich in vitamins C and D, doing gentle exercises like breathing yoga, and keeping your home well-ventilated are simple but effective ways. If you feel your symptoms are getting worse, such as persistent shortness of breath or wheezing that doesn’t go away, contact your doctor immediately for a timely check-up.
Conclusion
Asthma doesn’t have to be a barrier to enjoying winter if you know how to manage it. With a personalized treatment plan and support from a specialist, you can control your condition and live a healthy life. As a doctor, I am committed to providing dedicated care, based on practical experience and international knowledge, to help you overcome any health challenges. Start your journey to living well with asthma today!
Author
E. Zhang Wei Ming
China
