Winter-Proofing Your Lungs: 3 Steps to Stay Well

Higher Risk in Winter: Cold weather and chest infections are major triggers for COPD flare-ups.
Act Early: Preparing in advance helps you stay well and avoid complications.
The Goal: To reduce flare-ups and keep you out of hospital during the winter months.

Follow these three simple steps to help protect your lungs during winter:

1. Get Your Vaccinations:
Your Best Defence: Vaccinations help protect against serious infections.
Flu Jab: Essential every year.
Pneumonia & COVID-19: Make sure you are up to date.
2. Check Your Inhalers:
Be Prepared: Do not get caught out by bad weather or pharmacy closures.
Expiry Date: Make sure your inhalers are in date.
Supply: Ensure you have enough to last through the colder months.
Why It Matters: Being prepared allows you to act quickly at the first sign of a flare-up.
3. Know Your Flare-Up Plan:
Review: Remind yourself of the early signs of a flare-up.
Act Early: Follow your self-management plan as soon as symptoms begin.
Why It Matters: Early action is the best way to prevent hospital admission.