Our core content on Lung conditions and related factsheets has been translated to a number of other languages.
For more languages explore all available Factsheet translations.
Volunteer as a translator or learn how to translate using Chrome, Firefox or Edge browsers.
Our core content on Lung conditions and related factsheets has been translated to a number of other languages by our volunteer team.
For more languages explore all available Factsheet translations.
Volunteer as a translator or learn how to translate using Chrome, Firefox or Edge browsers.
Home » COPD symptoms affected by hot and cold temperatures
A summary of research published in ERJ Open Research
Hot and cold temperatures can affect symptoms of a person living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to new findings. This is particularly important now due to climate change. This study aimed to look at how temperature changes can impact people living with COPD. The findings have been published in the European Respiratory Journal Open Research.
The study included a small sample of 30 people with COPD. Researchers monitored participants for 4 separate 30-day periods to look at how their symptoms changed. They also measured air temperatures over the same periods to look for any patterns.
People exposed to higher temperatures were more likely to find that their breathing symptoms got worse. These symptoms included breathlessness, wheeze and a tight chest. In lower temperatures, people were more likely to experience a trigger of cough and phlegm symptoms.
These findings support a growing amount of evidence that suggests temperature can play a role in triggering a flare up of COPD symptoms. It is important both for people with COPD and their healthcare professionals to look at temperature as a possible cause for worsening symptoms. Lifestyle changes may help to prevent this.
Read the original research paper
Title: The impact of personal and outdoor temperature exposure during cold and warm seasons on lung function and respiratory symptoms in COPD
https://openres.ersjournals.com/content/early/2022/01/06/23120541.00574-2021
Sign up to get the latest information and research on lung conditions, hear about our upcoming events and campaigns, plus views from experts and patients! You can unsubscribe at any time.
ELF is a non-profit organisation registered as a UK company (VAT no. GB 115 0027 74) and charity (no. 1118930).
Our Brussels office enterprise number is 0738.383.695
European Lung Foundation's TR ID number in the Transparency Register is: 094039644810-79