How to take care of respiratory health during the cold?

With the arrival of winter and the cold front in Rio Grande do Sul, it is important to take care of respiratory health. The Doctor. Pierangelo Tadeu Baglio, a pulmonologist at Hospital Moinhos de Vento, offers some tips.

During winter, respiratory infections are more common due to cold weather and indoor environments. For those who have chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, cold air and humidity can trigger attacks. It is recommended to keep environments ventilated and avoid agglomerations.

The legacies left by the Covid-19 pandemic are important to protect respiratory health during the winter. Wearing masks is an effective way to protect yourself and others, especially indoors.

Hand hygiene with gel alcohol is also essential. In addition, it is important to receive recommended vaccinations, such as Covid-19 boosters and the flu shot.

To maintain respiratory health in winter, it is advisable to avoid prolonged exposure to cold and thermal shocks. When using air conditioning for heating, it is important to regulate the temperature and clean the filters regularly.

Maintaining cleanliness and adequate ventilation of environments, especially in bedrooms, helps prevent the accumulation of dust mites and allergens.

Avoiding contact with people who have a cold, offering them masks and, if you have the flu, establishing days of isolation at home, if possible, are important recommendations to prevent the spread of colds and flu.

For asthmatics, it is essential to continue the treatment prescribed by the pulmonologist, even when symptoms improve. Adequate asthma control allows for a normal life, including the practice of physical activities.

The correct and continuous use of prescribed medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators, is essential to obtain control of the disease and lead a normal life.