Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-term progressive condition that impacts the ability to breathe.

Specialist respiratory physiotherapist, Sarah McCall talks through some of the issues that winter brings for those with the condition and advice on what can help.

“COPD is used as an umbrella term for those suffering with Emphysema and Chronic bronchitis. Those with COPD tend to have a combination of the two conditions however one can be more dominant.

"Chronic Bronchitis is characterised by inflammation of the lining of the airways which causes narrowing (obstruction) making it difficult to get air in and out.

"Emphysema affects the ability of the airsacs to function properly as they become floppy and lose their elasticity, again affecting the ability to get air in and out of the lungs.

"The biggest cause of COPD is smoking but air pollution, dust and fumes from working environments as well as genetic factors can be a cause.

"COPD cannot be cured but treatments are available to help manage symptoms, slow disease progression and help improve patients’ quality of life.

"In the UK, COPD is reported to affect 1.2 million people, with a further 2 million people suspected to have COPD but remain undiagnosed. We know there are people in Cumbria who are suffering in silence.

"If you struggle to breathe doing normal daily activities or when you go for a walk, if you have a persistent cough or frequent chest infections please do ask for advice.

"COPD can be diagnosed through a medical professional such as a GP. They will take a thorough respiratory history and talk through your symptoms, they may also do a blowing test called Spirometry. This test helps understand changes within the airways and identify the severity of disease.

"Unfortunately, COPD cannot be cured but it can be managed. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease.

"If we can identify COPD in its early stages that really helps to improve long term outcomes, so speaking to your GP or practice nurse if you have any of the symptoms or concerns is important.

"Treatments and advice include stopping smoking, being vaccinated and inhaler medication.

"There are also rehabilitation classes that you can attend called Pulmonary Rehabilitation, this is a course of exercise and education to help you increase your fitness and learn more about managing your condition.

"Winter can be a difficult period for those suffering with COPD. Drop in temperatures can trigger changes within the airways and cause increased shortness of breath.

"Also with cold and flu season this increases the risk of developing chest infections and increases the risk of hospital admissions.

"It is therefore important those with COPD are prepared for the change in season.”

Top tips:

Get your winter vaccines: Make sure you are vaccinated against Flu, Pneumonia and COVID 19.

Managing flare ups; Speak to your Respiratory Nurse, GP or Specialist Respiratory Team about developing a personalised self-management plan for early detection of changes of symptoms and early treatment of infective exacerbations.

Keep your home at least 18degrees Celsius: Take into consideration the temperature within your home, if you are struggling with the cost of living crisis and paying heating bills we can direct you to services who can offer appropriate support. Look out for warm spots in your local area.

Wrap up outdoors: Wrap up warm when leaving the home, wearing a snood or scarf over your mouth/nose can help to warm the cold air before it hits the lungs.

These are just some of the things to consider as the cold weather approaches however for further advice please contact your GP surgery or Specialist Respiratory Team for support. You can also access the North Cumbria Respiratory page on Facebook for further advice, guidance and information on what is happening locally.”