Living in a dry climate zone has its perks. Many people prefer it to more humid climates for its ability to reduce joint pain and risks of heart disease. If you live in Alberta, you may not have realized the impact that the arid climate can have on overall health, especially those with asthma. You may be surprised at how much this unique climate can impact you or those you love with asthma.
Alberta has a continental climate, which means that it’s relatively dry with hot summers and extremely cold winters. While there are aspects of our climate that we love like the arid summers, it can pose a particular challenge to those of us with asthma. This doesn’t have to be a problem if you know how to work your way around the weather.
Dry Air Impact
Weather has an impact on asthma. It impacts everyone in different ways. Sometimes humidity can exacerbate symptoms and sometimes it alleviates them. It is often due to any extreme changes in weather including dry and humid environments. This happens because of the way your airways are lined. Everyone’s airways have some small amount of fluid coating. Each time you inhale dry air, the fluid dissipates and it is difficult for your body to replenish the liquid because of the consistent dryness you are inhaling. This is even truer if you are exercising in this type of climate zone. Your airways then become very dry which leads to irritation. This is a recipe for asthma symptoms.
Additionally, dry air is known to cause bronchoconstriction. This is when the airway is constricted because of coughing, muscle tightening and wheezing. Those with asthma often report more problems with dry air than they do humid.
How to Increase Humidity
Instead of packing your bags and leaving Alberta, there are some things you can do to increase humidity and help your asthma symptoms.
Breathe Through Your Nose
You’ve probably been told as a child to not breathe through your mouth. Beyond the annoyance it can cause to those around you, it is actually a great way to keep the moisture inside your body. It aids in keeping the fluid along your airways lined.
Track the Weather
If you’re thinking of spending some time outdoors, keep an eye on the humidity levels before making plans. Try to arrange outdoor activities when humidity levels are highest.
Workout Indoors
Working out, in general, can trigger asthmatic symptoms. This is even truer if you are running or working outside. Try to stick to a gym or at-home workout routine to avoid this.
Buy a Humidifier
You will want to be sure you are frequently changing the filter, but having a humidifier in your home can do wonders for your asthma in an otherwise dry climate like Alberta.
As most of us know, Alberta is known for its dry air. If you’re looking for help on how to combat that, contact Advanced Respiratory Care Network today!