Ahead of World COPD Day (19 Nov 2025) and colder weather this winter, respiratory health experts in the Midlands are sharing helpful tips for people experiencing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) and other breathing disorders to better manage their condition. Emergency department admissions for respiratory conditions in the Midlands typically rise from September and through the winter.

COPD can be difficult to identify, but when diagnosed early can be managed effectively to prevent deterioration and hospital admission. People who experience frequent breathlessness and cough should contact their GP practice to get assessed for possible COPD and other illnesses that can cause these symptoms 

Symptoms of COPD include: shortness of breath (especially during activity); a persistent chesty cough with phlegm; frequent chest infections; and persistent wheezing. At an advanced stage, symptoms may include swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs, fatigue, and unintentional weight loss.   

Dr Louise Ryan, Respiratory Primary Care Clinical Lead for East Midlands, NHS England, said: “Winter can be a challenging time for people living with COPD. Cold weather and an increase in viruses can lead to flare-ups, making it essential to take extra care of your health.

“If you follow the helpful tips we’re sharing, you and your family members with COPD and other respiratory conditions, can stay healthier and warm this winter.”

To manage COPD in winter, follow NHS England’s advice to stay warm and protected by wearing layers and a scarf, getting vaccinated against flu and COVID-19, and avoiding cold, damp or smoky environments. It is also important to keep your home warm, have enough medication, stay active, maintain good hygiene, and see your GP if your symptoms worsen. 

Helpful Tips

Stay warm and protected

• Dress warmly: Wear layers of clothing and a hat, gloves, and scarf when you go outside to warm the air before it reaches your lungs. 
• Stay inside during cold and bad weather: Avoid going out when it’s very cold, windy, or has high air pollution. 
• Create a lung-friendly home: Keep your home at a minimum of 18C, especially your bedroom, and use a humidifier if the air is very dry.
• Ventilate your home: Air your home for about 10 minutes a day to reduce dampness. 
• Protect your airways: Breathe through your nose instead of your mouth. When going outside, you can use a scarf or hood over your mouth and nose to warm the air. 
• Keeping well in the cold: learn more from Asthma + Lung UK about what you can do to protect your lungs this winter

Prevent infections

• Get vaccinated:

Ensure you are up-to-date with your annual flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, and ask your GP about the pneumonia vaccine. 

• Avoid triggers:

Stay away from smoky environments, strong smells from aerosols or cleaning products, and second-hand smoke. Find your local stop smoking service.  

• Practice good hygiene:

Wash your hands regularly and wear a mask in crowded, enclosed spaces. 

• Avoid crowds:

Stay away from crowded areas to minimize your risk of picking up infections. 

Manage your condition

• Have an up-to-date COPD self-management plan:

Follow your self-management plan and keep your reliever inhalers and other medications handy, ensuring you have enough supplies. 

• Stay active:

Engage in light activity indoors to stay warm and maintain fitness, but don’t push yourself too hard. 

• Eat a balanced diet:

Eat nutritious meals, including hot soups, to maintain your energy. 

• Monitor your health:

Be aware of the early signs of an infection, like a chest infection, and contact your GP or NHS 111 if your symptoms suddenly get worse. Seek help when needed.

• Check the weather: think ahead when outdoors this winter with COPD
• Contact your GP: If your symptoms get worse or you have new symptoms, contact your GP practice or care team. 
• Seek professional advice: Talk to your pharmacist about supplements. NHS England recommends that everyone should consider taking a daily Vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter.