Managing Asthma During Cooler Weather: Tips for Children

As the weather cools and children spend more time indoors, managing asthma becomes especially important. Asthma affects about one in 12 children and is a leading cause of school absences, ER visits and hospitalizations. With awareness and planning, parents can help their children stay healthy, active and safe during cooler months.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition in which the airways become inflamed and constricted. This causes symptoms such as: Coughing (especially at night or early morning)

• Wheezing or a high-pitched sound when breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Reduced exercise tolerance

During an asthma attack, airway muscles tighten and mucus increases, making it difficult for air to flow. Cold air can worsen symptoms because it narrows the airways and increases mucus production.

Who is at Risk?

Children are more likely to develop asthma if they have:

• A family history of asthma, allergies or eczema
• Other allergic conditions like food allergies, seasonal allergies or eczema
• Exposure to tobacco smoke or pollution
• A history of bronchiolitis

Early Warning Signs

It’s important to recognize symptoms early so you can manage asthma before it escalates:

• Persistent cough
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness

Managing Asthma During Cooler Months

1.Winter Prep Tips

• Use scarves or masks to warm inhaled air when outdoors.
• Use a humidifier indoors to prevent dry air, which can trigger symptoms.
• Monitor indoor air quality by reducing dust, pet dander and mold, especially as kids spend more time inside.

2. Medication Readiness

• Check that inhalers are not expired.
• Ensure your child’s asthma action plan is up to date and easy to follow.
• Know when and how to use rescue inhalers or other prescribed breathing treatments.

3. Flu Vaccine Importance

• Children with asthma are at higher risk of severe illness from the flu. Annual flu shots reduce the risk of asthma flare-ups, respiratory infections and hospitalizations.

4. Emergency Plan

• Identify steps to take if symptoms worsen:
  • When to use a rescue inhaler
  • When to call your pediatrician
  • When to seek emergency care

Tips for Parents

• Encourage regular physical activity, even indoors, to maintain lung health.
• Take time to celebrate milestones and small achievements in your child’s daily life.
• Keep a log of symptoms and triggers to track patterns and provide information at checkups.
• Ensure children know how to communicate early warning signs to adults or caregivers.

Resources

• American Lung Association – How to Use Inhalers and Nebulizers
• American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology – Asthma Resources for Parents
• HealthyChildren.org – Allergy & Asthma

Asthma doesn’t have to limit your child’s activities during cooler weather. By preparing for cold air triggers, maintaining medication readiness, monitoring indoor air and staying up to date on vaccines, parents can help their children breathe easier and enjoy the season. For personalized guidance or questions about your child’s asthma, contact your pediatrician at Forest Lane Pediatrics.