Breathe easier this season

Cold air and winter germs can make it harder to breathe. And it can be dangerous for people with conditions like asthma or COPD. Read on for ways to protect your lungs.

Winter can take a toll on your lungs. Cold, dry air can be bothersome. Colds and the flu spread easily. It’s hard to make it through the season without an upper respiratory infection.

Adults with asthma or COPD are at an even higher risk of lung issues in winter. A cold, flu, or other problems can cause a flare-up.

Here are some steps you can take to keep you healthy:

Prevent colds and flu

Cold and flu bugs spread easily. But there’s plenty you can do to fight them.

Wash your hands. Using soap and hot water, scrub for at least 20 seconds. Can’t get to the sink? Use hand sanitizer.

Get vaccinated. Get a $0 flu shot every year. Try to get it in the fall before flu season.

You can get a flu shot from your doctor or at a pharmacy. Your doctor may recommend other vaccines, too, like:

COVID-19
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
Pneumonia

Keep surfaces clean. Sanitize things you touch often like doorknobs, handles, steering wheels, and your phone.

Keep your distance. Don’t get too close to someone who is sick, and consider wearing a mask in crowded places. If you’re sick, a mask can keep you from spreading it to others.

Take your meds. Keeping COPD and asthma under control can help your lungs fight off germs better.

Treat colds and flu

Antibiotics are a go-to treatment for many things. But they’re not always the right choice for upper respiratory infections, which are viral. Antibiotics work only against bacterial infections.

If you start feeling sick, go to your doctor or urgent care. They can run tests to figure out if it’s a bacterial or viral infection. Then, they can prescribe the right medication.

If they prescribe an antibiotic, be sure to take it exactly as directed. Follow the dosage instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist. And complete the full course, even if you start feeling better before it’s done.

Dr. Ramos says: If you notice coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath, don’t wait. Talk with your doctor — early care can prevent complications

Website last updated: 9/30/2026