Pulmonologist advises patients to maintain treatment, avoid prolonged cold exposure and take recommended vaccinations
Srinagar, Nov 13: As temperatures continue to drop across Kashmir, pulmonologist Dr Naveed Nazir has cautioned that the winter season could worsen respiratory conditions, particularly asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), while increasing the risk of respiratory tract infections.
Dr Nazir said hospitals generally record a rise in respiratory outpatient visits during winter, as cold temperatures and low humidity aggravate existing lung conditions and make patients more vulnerable to acute attacks.
He said people with a history of asthma, COPD and other chronic respiratory illnesses are particularly susceptible to seasonal changes and should take preventive measures to avoid complications.
“During winter, we see a significant increase in patients visiting respiratory OPDs. Those already suffering from asthma or COPD experience worsening of their condition, and the risk of attacks also increases. Respiratory tract infections become much more common during this period,” he said.
Explaining the reasons behind the seasonal increase, Dr Nazir identified cold weather and reduced moisture in the air as major factors contributing to breathing difficulties and the worsening of respiratory symptoms.
He advised patients with chronic lung diseases to maintain their prescribed treatment and ensure their conditions remain under control before the onset of severe winter.
“We advise patients suffering from respiratory diseases to continue their treatment properly before winter begins so that their condition remains stable and the risk of attacks is minimised,” he said.
The pulmonologist also cautioned against unnecessary exposure to cold air, particularly during early mornings and evenings, when temperatures are generally lower.
He recommended that vulnerable patients limit outdoor activities during extremely cold conditions and use adequate protective clothing whenever they need to step outside.
“Patients should try to avoid cold exposure during mornings and evenings. When temperatures are very low, they should avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary. If they have to step out, they should cover their faces and wear proper warm clothing,” Dr Nazir said.
Highlighting the role of immunisation in preventing seasonal infections, he urged eligible patients to consult their doctors about receiving influenza and pneumococcal vaccines before winter.
According to him, these vaccines can help protect against specific viral and bacterial infections that may lead to serious complications in people with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
He said preventive healthcare and timely medical intervention were important in reducing the number of patients requiring hospital treatment during the colder months.
Dr Nazir observed that although hospitals continue to provide treatment to patients experiencing respiratory complications, following medical advice and taking precautions could help reduce the frequency of infections and acute attacks.
“We see that OPD attendance increases during winter. Patients who come to hospitals receive treatment, but if proper preventive measures are followed, we can reduce the incidence of illness and prevent attacks that force patients to return to hospitals,” he said.
He further called for greater public awareness about winter-related respiratory risks, stressing that patients should not discontinue prescribed medicines or neglect early symptoms.
Emphasising the importance of preventive care, Dr Nazir said following recommended precautions could help patients manage their existing conditions and reduce the likelihood of repeated hospital visits during winter.
