Dr Sarah Jarvis is the Clinical Director of the Patient Platform, an active medical writer, broadcaster, and the resident doctor for BBC Radio 2.
Cliff Richard may have sung “We’re all going on a summer holiday… I’m going where the sun shines brightly; I’m going where the sea is blue”. But sunshine and sand aren’t the only holidays people want. Whether it’s polar bear spotting in the Arctic, mountain walking or just a winter break to a non-tropical country, there are lots of holiday spots where the weather is cold.
If you’re considering a trip like this, it’s worth knowing about some of the medical conditions which can get worse in cold weather, and what steps you’d need to take.
Every Breath You Take
Whether you have COPD, asthma or another lung condition, you need to be aware of the weather. Studies show even a 5°C drop in temperature increases your chance of worsening your cough and sputum if you have COPD by a quarter. Cold air is often dry air, which can trigger irritation, narrowing and shortness of breath. If you have asthma, breathing in cold air can trigger wheezing.
Being outside in cold air doesn’t cause colds, flu or chest infections – it’s the viruses and bacteria that do that. However, being cold causes the blood vessels at the surface of your body to constrict – that’s because your circulation is directing more blood to your vital organs to keep them warm.
That means the lining (mucous membrane) of your nose isn’t well supplied with blood. This blood brings white blood cells from your immune system to fight off invaders before they get into your airways. What’s more, in cold dry air your mucous membranes can dry out, making it easier for viruses to penetrate.
As if that wasn’t enough, in cold weather you’re more likely to congregate indoors, in dry warm centrally heated air with other people and little air circulation. This is the perfect place for viruses to spread between people.
What Can You Do?
Cover Your Mouth and Nose: A scarf over your mouth and nose will warm and humidify air as it reaches your nostrils.
Pack for the Weather: Thick woollen tights and socks, thermal underwear and lots of jumpers (and warm waterproof outer layers), along with hats and gloves, should all be on your packing list.
Dress in Layers: This helps trap warm air around your body. It also makes it easier to regulate your temperature if you’re going from warm to cold and back again.
Breathe Through Your Nose: This helps warm the air you’re breathing before it reaches your airways.
Keep Active: Regular exercise not only keeps you warm, it is well proven to improve your lung function.
Stay Away From Triggers: If you have asthma, you may find pets, smoke, strong smells or fumes make your symptoms worse. Make a list of possible triggers so you can avoid them where possible
Get Your Vaccines: Flu affects different countries at different times of year. There are now vaccines available free on the NHS for at-risk people, protecting against not just flu and COVID-19, but also pneumococcus (one of the commonest causes of pneumonia) and RSV.
Plan with your medicines: Make sure you have enough of your inhalers and other medicines and order them well in advance. Keep your reliever inhaler with you at all times, and know the signs that mean you should seek medical help.
READ MORE: Travelling with Medications
Read my top tips on travelling with COPD or asthma for weather-independent advice.
Skin Conditions
Your skin offers amazing protection against infection getting in – but it’s the biggest organ in your body and it’s susceptible to the elements. Skin doesn’t like conditions which are too cold, too hot, too wet, too dry or too windy – and wet, cold and wind often come together. So, without some extra steps, you could find your skin getting dry and chapped even if you don’t usually have any problems.
If you have conditions like eczema, dermatitis, rosacea and psoriasis, you’ll need to take extra steps to avoid a flare-up.
What Can You Do?
Moisturise: Low humidity (including indoor central heating) can reduce moisture, as well as vital lipids, in the skin. This makes it prone to inflammation and cracking, which makes it easier for infection and allergens to get in. Apply regular non-scented moisturiser (at least 2-3 times a day) copiously.
Soap Choice: Consider a soap substitute such as aqueous cream instead of using soap or shower gel, which can dry your skin out.
Hot Water: Avoid hot baths and showers, which can make skin irritation worse. And do remember that being in water can actually, dry your skin out.
Accessorise: Wear gloves to protect your hands from cold and dry air.
Wrap-Up: Protect yourself from the wind with a scarf over your face and use a petroleum-based lip balm.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of (non-alcoholic) fluids to stay hydrated from the inside out.
Medications: Keep using your regular treatment – whether this is moisturisers, tablets or topical psoriasis treatment. Remember that there are restrictions on taking medication in your hand luggage - see our guide on travelling with medication for more details.
Check-in with Your GP: If you get flare-ups of eczema or psoriasis, speak to your doctor before you go about having a supply of emergency treatment, such as stronger steroid cream.
My Poor Head!
Cold weather can increase your risk of migraines. It’s thought the reduced blood flow to the brain in cold weather can make you more prone. If you’re in a snowy area, the glare of the sun on the snow can trigger migraine.
Changes in barometric (atmospheric) pressure from variable or stormy weather increases the risk of headaches. Cold air is often dry, making you more prone to dehydration which is another migraine trigger.
What Can You Do?
Keep Hydrated: Don’t forget any amount of alcohol can dehydrate you, so keep this to a minimum. Instead, stay topped up with plenty of non-alcoholic fluids.
Know your triggers: Try to avoid your triggers. Keep a migraine diary before you go so you know what brings on your migraines. Lots of these triggers are common on holiday – lack of sleep, alcohol, strong smells, bright lights from the hotel disco!
Medications: Carry a supply of your acute (painkiller) medicine with you. See our guide to taking medication abroad for more information.
Joint Thinking
Most of us have a grandma who swore blind her poor old joints could tell her when there was rain coming. She was probably right – there’s good evidence that cold, wet or stormy weather can make arthritis worse.
The tissue and fluid inside and around your joints expand and contract depending on the atmospheric pressure, which changes when the weather is stormy or variable. This can trigger nerves to send pain messages. Cold weather can also lead to muscle spasms, and blood flow to the joints is often reduced in cold weather.
What Can You Do?
Stay Warm: Layering up with thermal underwear, hats, coats and gloves can help keep your joints warm and well-supplied with blood.
Stay Active: You may be tempted to stay inside in the warm, but being inactive is a major cause of joint pain and stiffness. Get into the habit of doing some indoor stretching and strength exercises before you go. Keep this good habit going while you’re away, and plan activities outside around more clement days.
Stay Safe: Icy weather is dangerous weather where falls are concerned – and if you already have arthritis, your risk of falls may be increased. As well as keeping active (which builds up the muscles around your joints that protect you from falls), invest in footwear with a really good grip.
Cold-weather travel can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be aware of how chilly temperatures can affect certain medical conditions. From respiratory issues and skin conditions to migraines and joint pain, understanding the risks and taking proactive steps can help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
By dressing appropriately, staying active, keeping hydrated, and managing your medications effectively, you can minimize potential health concerns. With the right precautions, you can embrace the cold and enjoy your winter adventures to the fullest. Safe travels!