Winter in Alberta brings more than snowdrifts, icy roads, and frosty mornings, as it also comes with unique challenges for your lungs, heart, and immune system. At Advanced Respiratory Care Network, our team hears from patients every day who are trying to make sense of their symptoms once the temperature drops.
If you’ve ever wondered why you feel more tired in January, why your cough seems worse in the cold, or whether freezing air can actually affect your heart, this guide has the answers.
Here are the top five questions Albertans ask about winter health, plus practical steps to help you stay well all season long.
1. Why do I feel more tired in the winter?
Feeling more tired in colder months is very common and there are a few reasons why.
Shorter days mean less sunlight, which affects your sleep-wake cycle and can lead to lower energy or changes in mood. Cold weather also puts extra demand on your body, especially when you’re fighting off seasonal viruses such as influenza, RSV, or common colds.
What you can do:
- Get outside during daylight hours, even for a short walk.
- Stay active indoors to support your circulation and boost energy.
- Choose nutrient-rich foods to support your immune system.
- Keep a consistent sleep routine to help regulate your body clock.
Read Next: Sodium & Your Heart: 5 Holiday Eating Tips for Canadians
2. Is my winter cough something to worry about?
A winter cough can come from many causes: cold outdoor air, dry indoor heat, seasonal infections, or irritated airways. But some warning signs suggest it’s worth a closer look.
If your cough:
- lasts more than 10 days,
- gets worse at night,
- comes with wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness,
- or brings up mucus regularly,
…it might be more than a simple cold. These symptoms can be linked to asthma, bronchitis, COPD, or lingering inflammation after an infection.
What you can do:
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air.
- Drink plenty of water to soothe irritated airways.
- See your health care provider if your cough persists or affects your breathing.
- Ask about pulmonary function testing if symptoms continue.
3. How does cold air affect my lungs and breathing?
Cold, dry air can irritate your airways, making it harder to breathe—especially for people with asthma, COPD, or chronic respiratory conditions. The sudden shock of cold air can cause bronchospasm, which may lead to coughing, chest tightness, or wheezing.
Even people without chronic lung issues may notice their breathing feels “heavier” on very cold days.
What you can do:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf or breathable mask.
- Try to breathe through your nose, which naturally warms and humidifies the air.
- Limit strenuous outdoor activity when temperatures drop below –15°C.
- Warm up indoors before heading out for exercise or shovelling.
4. Can cold weather trigger chest pain or heart issues?
Yes. And it’s more common than many people realize.
Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to tighten (vasoconstriction), which raises blood pressure and forces your heart to work harder. This can trigger chest discomfort, especially in people with:
- heart disease,
- high blood pressure,
a history of angina or heart rhythm issues, - or other cardiac conditions.
Strenuous activities like shovelling snow can also put sudden stress on the heart.
What you can do:
- Dress in warm, insulated layers to reduce heat loss.
- Avoid sudden bursts of exertion; warm up first.
- Take breaks while shovelling, and don’t hesitate to ask for help.
- Talk to your doctor if you experience chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue.
5. Does air quality really matter in the winter?
Absolutely. And winter air quality can be worse than you think.
Indoor air often becomes drier and more polluted due to heating systems, low humidity, limited ventilation, and increased time spent inside. This can aggravate respiratory symptoms and weaken your body’s natural defences.
Outdoor air quality also fluctuates in Alberta during winter temperature inversions.
What you can do:
- Use HEPA filters and keep vents clean.
- Avoid scented candles, strong chemical cleaners, and smoke exposure.
- Keep humidity levels comfortable (30–50%).
Monitor Alberta’s Air Quality Health Index (AQHI), especially helpful for people with asthma, COPD, or heart disease.
Related: How to Read Alberta’s Air Quality Health Index (AQHI)
Stay Ahead of Winter Health Challenges
Winter doesn’t have to mean feeling run down or struggling to breathe. With the right strategies and support, you can protect your lungs, heart, and overall wellness all season long.
Advanced Respiratory Care Network offers respiratory diagnostics, cardiology consultations, and home oxygen services across Alberta. If you have questions about your winter health, we’re here to help. Find a location near you or call us today to speak with a member of our team.