Comfortable Breathing: Discover the Ideal Room Temperature for Asthma Sufferers
Surviving with asthma ain't a walk in the park, 'specially when your lungs are hyper-sensitive to air changes. From dust and pollution, all the way to temperature and humidity variations – these sneaky factors can make your breathing a struggle. Let's dive into the best room temp and humidity for your lungs and see how to handle those chillin' or scorching outdoor temperatures.
Picking the perfect temperature for asthma
If you're one of the 25 million Americans with asthma, finding the right cozy room temperature is essential for feeling top-notch. Here's the ideal setup for your lungs:
- Room temp: 68 to 71°F (20 to 21.6°C)**
- Humidity: 30% to 50%
While it's not just discipline, science has a say in this too. We're gonna walk you through the science behind the best room temperature for asthma.
Secrets behind the ideal room temperature for asthma
Temperature extremes can act as a trigger for asthma, whether it's too hot or too cold. Since asthma varies from person to person, it's hard to find universally avoiding temps on the thermostat. If your asthma is mild, minor temps swings probably won't be a big deal. However, if your asthma is severe, closely monitoring your room temp can be a vital part of managing your condition.
In a small 2012 study, researchers suggested that 68 to 71°F (20 to 21.6°C) is the safest Temp zone for folks with asthma. Coincidentally, 68 to 72°F (20 to 22°C) is what they call "room temperature."
Humidity seems less essential, but it still matters. As a general rule, air humidity levels above/below 30% to 50% could be an asthma trigger. High indoor humidity can lead to dust mites and mold, two big asthma triggers.
Home sweet home – maintaining an asthma-friendly environment
Keeping your indoor rooms at these levels is way easier with the right tools:
- Exhaust fan: Use it during showers to keep humidity low or open a window for ventilation.
- Humidifier/Dehumidifier: If you live somewhere dry, a humidifier will make sure your air isn't too arid. If you're in a humid area, a dehumidifier is necessary. To manage humidity levels, having both on hand can be useful if humidity is a significant asthma trigger for you.
- Air conditioner: Most US homes have air conditioning. Whether it's an in-window unit or central A/C, this lets you control the temperature of your home with the push of a button.
Air temperature's role in asthma
Asthma's all about the airways. It can be triggered by extremes of temperature and sudden shifts in air temperature.
- Hot air hates your lungs: Hot environments, especially sticky ones, cause airways to restrict. You tend to sweat and breathe more, which can lead to dehydration, a known asthma symptom trigger. Pollen and pollution levels also tend to rise during hot weather, which are A-1 asthma triggers.
- Cold isn't better: Cold air is usually dry air. That can evaporate the natural mucus in your airways, causing itching, narrowing, and irritation. A 2018 research review showed that this could trigger asthma symptoms.
How extreme is too extreme? Some studies show that temperature changes greater than 41°F (5°C) could pose problems within the respiratory systems of people with asthma.
Staying safe from extreme weather with asthma
Indoor temps you can control, but Mother Nature ain't got a thermostat. Here's how to stay protected:
When it's hot
- Avoid bad air days: Stay inside when the air quality's nasty. Even if you've been cooped up enough during the pandemic, it's worth avoiding harsh outdoor environments to dodge potential triggers.
- Dress for the heat: Wear loose, light, and moisture-wicking clothes when it's hot to help you sweat less and staying hydrated.
When it's cold
- Cover up: Use a face mask or scarf to keep the air in your lungs humid and moist.
- Stay warm: Keep yourself toasty in cold weather to reduce the likelihood of triggering your asthma.
General advice
- Carry your rescue inhaler: Always travel with your rescue inhaler, just in case.
- Adhere to your treatment plan: Stick to your doctor's plan for managing your asthma. They likely already accounted for air temperature and humidity changes in their plan. If your treatment plan doesn't address air temperature or humidity, speak with your doc for personalized advice.
Other environmental factors
Air temperature and weather extremes aren't the only thing you should keep an eye on. Here are some other asthma triggers lurking in the air:
- Air pollution: This is worsened by hot weather, but if you live in an urban environment, air pollution levels are likely always a concern. Be alert with apps and news stations' air pollution reports.
- Pollen: Counts are higher in warm weather. Keep tabs on this stat to stay aware of pollen triggers.
- Mold: Grows in damp, humid environments. An older 2002 study found that exposure to indoor mold isn't good for adults with asthma. Keep humidity levels low and clean regularly to protect yourself from mold spores.
- Dust mites: Many people have allergies to dust mites. They love humidity and stick to fabrics. Regularly wash your bedding, vacuum, and use allergen-blocking bed covers to help keep them at bay.
Know when to call the doc
If you're wheezing, feeling short of breath, or have chest tightness, consult your doctor if you're uncertain about your asthma symptoms.
When to call your doctor right away
In case you:
- are using your inhaler more frequently, especially if it's sudden
- have worsening symptoms after taking medication
- persistently cough and it worsens over time
- feel weak, dizzy, or fatigued
- have trouble breathing during daily activities like cooking or folding laundry
- develop new wheezing
Conclusion
The ideal air temperature for asthma is 68 to 71°F (20 to 21.6°C), while humidity should be between 30% and 50%. Maintain good indoor temps with tools like AC, exhaust fans, and humidifiers or dehumidifiers.
Staying safe during extreme weather can be managed by monitoring weather forecasts, staying indoors on bad air days, using protective gear, and following your doctor's treatment plan. If you're noticing new asthma symptoms or unsure of your management, speak with your doctor for personalized advice.
- For individuals with asthma, maintaining indoor temperatures between 68 to 71°F (20 to 21.6°C) is essential for optimal comfort.
- The study in 2012 suggested that air humidity levels between 30% to 50% could help reduce the likelihood of asthma triggers.
- Air temperature can significantly impact asthma, as hot and cold environments, as well as sudden shifts in temperature, can act as triggers for asthma symptoms.
