As the temperatures drop, those of you living with COPD often feel the effects more intensely than others. Cold winter air is often drier, harsher, and can make breathing feel more difficult — even if you spend much of your time indoors. But with the right strategies, you can keep your home comfortable, protect your lungs, and breathe easier all winter long.

At Respire Homecare Services, your respiratory health is our top priority. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthier indoor space when winter weather hits.

How Winter Makes COPD Symptoms Worse

Even when you stay inside, winter weather can have a major impact on your breathing. You may notice:

  • Increased shortness of breath
  • More coughing or wheezing
  • Tightness or irritation in the airways
  • Higher mucus production
This happens because cold, dry air and rapid temperature changes tend to trigger airway inflammation. Constantly running your home’s heating system reduces the indoor humidity, making the air even dryer and exacerbating the issue. Understanding these triggers is the first step in managing them.

1. Keep Your Indoor Air Warm, But Not Too Warm

Everyone wants their home to be warm and cozy during the winter, but overly warm air can become dry and irritating.

Tips for a balanced indoor temperature:

  • Keep your home between 68–72°F, depending on your comfort level.
  • Avoid sitting near drafts, windows, or exterior doors.
  • Dress in breathable layers rather than overheating your home.
  • Use space heaters with caution. Make sure they are ventilated and safe for respiratory conditions.
A steady, moderate temperature reduces stress on your airway and helps keep breathing more manageable.

2. Use a Humidifier to Add Gentle Moisture

Dry indoor air is one of the biggest COPD irritants in winter. If used correctly, a humidifier can be a big help.

Best practices:

  • Try to keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%.
  • Regularly clean your humidifier to prevent bacteria or mold growth.
  • Avoid over-humidifying, which can encourage dust mites or mildew.
If you use home oxygen, humidification attachments may also reduce dryness in your nasal passages.

3. Maintain Clean, Well‑Filtered Air

Winter often means closed windows, which means less ventilation, allowing indoor pollutants to build up.

To support cleaner indoor air:

  • Replace HVAC filters every 30–60 days.
  • Avoid scented candles, aerosol sprays, or fireplaces that produce smoke.
  • Keep dust and pet dander under control by cleaning regularly.
  • Consider an air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter for additional support.
Cleaner indoor air reduces airway irritation and helps you breathe more comfortably.

4. Stay Moving, Even in Small Ways

Cold weather often leads to more time spent sitting, but a more sedentary lifestyle can cause mucus to build up making breathing harder. Doing even short movements can help mitigate these effects.

Simple indoor activities:

  • Light stretching
  • Short hallway walks
  • Seated leg and arm exercises
  • Pulmonary rehab exercises recommended by your care team
Even just 5–10 minutes of movement multiple times a day can help keep your lungs working more efficiently.

5. Bundle Up to Protect Your Airway

Even quick trips to the mailbox can expose your lungs to cold, harsh air.

Before heading outdoors:

  • Wear a scarf or cold-weather mask over your nose and mouth to warm the air before it reaches your airways.
  • Breathe through your nose when possible.
  • Avoid sudden, drastic temperature changes (like stepping out immediately after a hot shower).
  • Keep a rescue inhaler or prescribed medications close at hand.
A few small precautions can prevent cold-air flare-ups.

6. Monitor Your Symptoms and Medication Schedule

Respiratory infections are more common during the winter months, and people with COPD are at higher risk for complications. Staying consistent with your care routine is essential.

  • Take medications exactly as prescribed.
  • Keep your inhalers, nebulizer supplies, and oxygen equipment in good working order.
  • Watch for changes such as increased sputum, worsening shortness of breath, or fever.
If something feels “off,” reach out to your provider or care team sooner rather than later.

7. Ensure Your Home Respiratory Equipment Is Winter‑Ready

Your respiratory equipment is essential in your comfort during colder months. Now is a great time to make sure everything is working properly.

Check the following:

  • Tubing and cannulas for cracks
  • Humidifier bottles for cleanliness
  • Filters for dirt or buildup
  • Backup equipment in case of power outages
  • CPAP/BiPAP supplies, if applicable
If you’re not sure whether something needs maintenance or replacement, Respire Homecare Services is here to help. Contact our team today.

8. Plan Ahead for Severe Weather

Winter storms can lead to power outages or supply delays. Preparing early ensures you’re never without the essentials.

Consider:

  • Extra oxygen tanks if you rely on a concentrator
  • Fully charged batteries for portable oxygen units
  • A stocked medication supply
  • Backup heat sources that are safe and vent‑free
  • Ensuring your emergency contacts are available and easily accessible
Proactive planning keeps you safe and supported, even in an emergency.

Stay Comfortable, Supported, and Prepared This Winter

Cold weather doesn’t have to mean discomfort and health issues. With a few simple adjustments and ongoing attention to your indoor environment, you can stay warm, breathe easier, and maintain better control of your COPD symptoms all season long.

Respire Homecare Services is here to support you every step of the way with everything from equipment guidance to personalized respiratory solutions.

If you have questions about humidification, oxygen supplies, or winter preparation, our team is just a call away.