COPD, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a lung disease. It is caused by chronic exposure to irritants, such as cigarette smoke or air pollution. In addition, patients often have cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath. These symptoms are especially severe during periods of extreme weather change.
Cold, hot, or dry air can trigger COPD. Patients have difficulty breathing when the temperature is below 32°F(0°C) or above 90°F(32.2°C) and in windy weather. What's more, Humidity, ozone levels, and pollen are also factors. Therefore, people with COPD should make a conscious effort to avoid exposure to certain risk factors, such as cigarette smoke, dust, chemicals in cleaning agents, air pollution, and stay indoors during extreme weather.
Mold is another potential trigger for people with COPD disease and asthma. COPD patients with weak immune systems are particularly sensitive to mold exposure. When indoor humidity is too high, air pollutants increase, and mold grows. When people with COPD or asthma are exposed to mold for long periods, their throats and lungs can be irritated, and asthma symptoms can get worse. These symptoms include coughing, wheezing, stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, rhinitis, or a runny nose caused by inflammation of the mucous membranes in the nose.
To make sure your home is mold-free, you need to check regularly the following common areas where mold can thrive:
1.A roof or basement that is flooded or seeped by rainwater
2.Pipes under the sink are poorly connected or leaking
3.Damp carpet
4.Poor ventilation in the bathroom and kitchen
5.Drip dishes under refrigerators and freezers
Once you have identified a potentially problematic area, take immediate steps to remove or clean it. Noticing, you should wear a mask and gloves when cleaning.
If you have COPD and live in an area with high humidity, you may need to consider moving to a drier climate. In addition, you can buy a dehumidifier to help you remove excess water.