Don’t Let Summer Steal Your Breath

There’s a reason they’re called the lazy days of summer. Heat, humidity and pollution can zap energy and make breathing difficult for sufferers of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). But you don’t have to hide indoors. Try these tips to make the most of the warmer months.

• Beat the heat — and humidity. “Drink plenty of fluids, which will keep the mucus in your airways thinner and flowing,” said Bill Lacy, M.D., pulmonologist at Sts. Mary & Elizabeth Hospital.
• Avoid ozone. Exhaust from cars, trucks and power plants reacts with the summer sun, forming ozone, a major air pollutant, which can harm your lungs. Watch reports for information on air quality. “If there is a warning about high ozone levels, consider staying indoors with air conditioning on,” said Dr. Lacy.
• Avoid air pollutants. Steer clear of busy roads and places where smokers congregate to avoid dangerous particles getting deep into your lungs.
• Know your limits. Recognize the factors that affect your breathing and energy levels.