How Masks Can Help You Manage COPD Symptoms in Cold Weather

Face masks or coverings may help prevent your COPD symptoms from getting too severe in cold weather.

Extreme temperatures are not your friend. They can cause your COPD symptoms to flare, making it more difficult to breathe easily.

Face masks may help prevent flare-ups due to cold weather. They might also help you better manage being outside when the temperatures start to drop.

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Why is it important to cover your face in cold weather?

Cold weather can worsen your symptoms.

Cold air tends to be dry, which can make it irritating to your lungs. Research from 2018 suggests that even during warmer months, symptoms can worsen within a few hours or days due to:

• small changes in air temperature of only a few degrees
• changes to humidity levels between outdoor air and air-conditioned spaces, such as a home, office, or car

Findings from a 2022 study suggest that cold temperatures in winter often cause coughing and phlegm buildup. It may also cause wheezing and shortness of breath.

A face mask may help prevent unwelcome symptoms by warming and humidifying the air before it enters your airways.

The American Lung Association suggests trying to breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. They also say a face covering can consist of a scarf, loosely wrapped around your face.

What’s a good face mask for cold weather?

There are many face mask options for cold weather. Which will work best for you may vary.

Some features you may want to consider include:

• Material: Cotton may be a good option for everyday use. It allows a bit of moisture to remain in the fabric and allows for decent airflow.
• Thickness: You probably do not want a face mask that’s too thick because it can make breathing more challenging. Evidence suggests that face masks meant to prevent infection can interfere with your ability to exercise while wearing one. A light- to medium-weight covering is likely best.
• Convenience: Some companies offer combined hats and masks that allow you to pull them on and off easily as needed. This may be a convenient option if you grab your hat but forget a face covering when going out.
• Fit: Some masks come in different sizes to accommodate different face sizes. Getting a mask that’s too large can create gaps, while one that’s too small may feel uncomfortable. Also, if you use portable oxygen, make sure there’s enough room for the tubes to fit underneath without causing discomfort.
• Will they fog your glasses? If you wear glasses regularly, you may want to look for masks that keep warm, humid air from passing over them as you breathe out. Some masks have special filter areas and features to help with airflow and keep it away from your glasses.

FAQs

The following are common questions about face coverings for cold weather and COPD:

Can you wear a face mask with COPD?

Yes! You can absolutely wear a face mask while living with COPD. And you probably should wear one during cold weather.

A mask in cold weather can help moisturize and warm the air before it enters your lungs.

What’s the best face mask with COPD?

Consider looking for masks that offer breathable material, like cotton, which can wick away excess moisture. No formal organizations recommend a specific mask, so you should pick one that makes you feel comfortable and fits your face well.

Is cold weather bad for you?

Cold air is generally considered “bad” if you live with COPD. It tends to be dry, leading to phlegm, coughing, and wheezing. Masks or face coverings when outside during colder months may help to warm and moisturize the air.

Everyone is different. It’s important to talk with your doctor about COPD symptom triggers.

Do I have to wear a mask for protection from cold air?

If you don’t like wearing a mask, you can achieve a similar effect with a scarf wrapped loosely around your face. This provides similar protection against cold, dry air and may help you prevent your symptoms from flaring.

Do I have to avoid cold weather entirely if I have COPD?

No. You can still go outside when the weather is cold. But you may want to take some precautions, such as:

• Dress with the weather in mind, including wearing accessories such as hats and gloves and layering your clothes.
• Avoid going outdoors during the coldest parts of the day.
• Wear a face covering when outside.
• Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth.
• Keep moving to generate more heat and avoid sitting or standing for long periods.

Takeaway

Cold weather can worsen your symptoms, making it more challenging to breathe. A face mask or covering may help you manage being in cold weather by warming and moisturizing the air you breathe in.

There is no standard recommendation for masks, but you should generally look for a well-fitting mask that uses cotton or similar materials and allows for good airflow. It should feel comfortable and accommodate any special considerations such as wearing glasses or using portable oxygen.

You do not have to stop going outside in cold weather, but you should definitely consider avoiding the coldest parts of the day, wearing warm accessories, and layering your clothes.