Weather can affect everyone’s health, especially those living with COPD. Heat and humidity can make it hard to breathe and increase the risk of flare-ups and emergency room visits.[1] Are you prepared for the heat and humidity of summer?
Heat and COPD
Warmer temperatures cause the body to work harder to cool itself. This can lead to feeling tired, weak, or even dizzy. Symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness are common when the body is too hot.
Humidity and COPD
Humidity is how much moisture or water is in the air. High humidity can feel thick and heavy, making it harder for the lungs to work well.[2] Humidity also traps pollution, like smoke, in the air, which can harm the airways.
Tips for managing COPD during very hot and humid days:
- Drink water.
- Keep cool indoors.
- Check the weather before going outside.
- Keep physical activity indoors.
- Carry medications with you.
How have you managed your COPD during days of high heat
and humidity? Do you have a favorite tip to keep cool or an indoor activity
that helps you breathe easier? Let us know!
[1] Mekhuri S, Quach S, Barakat C, Sun W, Nonoyama ML. A cross-sectional survey on the effects of ambient temperature and humidity on health outcomes in individuals with chronic respiratory disease. Can J Respir Ther. 2023;59:256-269. Published 2023 Dec 8. doi: 10.29390/001c.90653
[2] Does weather affect COPD? cold, heat, and humidity. ScienceInsights. March 7, 2026. Accessed May 26, 2026. https://scienceinsights.org/does-weather-affect-copd-cold-heat-and-humidity/.