Srinagar, Jan 07 (KNO): The Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Soura has issued an advisory, cautioning people that extreme winters in Kashmir can increase the risk of Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (AE-COPD).
The advisory, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) urges people to take preventive measures and seek immediate medical attention if the frequency of cough increases or oxygen saturation falls.
"AE-COPD is characterised by increased dyspnea and/or cough and sputum that worsens within 14 days. It may be accompanied by tachypnea and/or tachycardia and is usually associated with increased inflammation (local and systemic) caused by infection, pollution, or other insults to the airways," the advisory reads.
Dos for respiratory illness prevention:
- Clean your hands frequently and avoid touching your face, especially your nose and mouth.
- Wear multiple layers of clothing to trap heat and maintain body warmth.
- Stay indoors and limit exposure to outdoor air, especially when temperatures are below freezing.
- Avoid overcrowded places unless necessary.
- Keep your nose and mouth covered when venturing outdoors.
- Maintain hydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Engage in indoor physical activities to improve lung health, circulation, and overall fitness.
- Get vaccinated against flu and pneumonia. It’s better late than never, as vaccines reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
- Use prescribed medications, especially inhalers, regularly, and follow your COPD action plan for exacerbations.
Don'ts for respiratory illness prevention:
- Don’t smoke or stay around smoke.
- Don’t expose yourself to cold air without proper protection.
- Don’t skip medication—always carry a rescue inhaler if prescribed and take maintenance medications as advised.
- Don’t engage in strenuous outdoor activities in severe cold.
- Don’t use space heaters without proper ventilation.
- Don’t allow indoor air to become too dry.
When to report to the hospital:
- If the frequency of cough increases or there is an increased sputum production.
- If sputum increases in quantity or changes colour.
- If a new fever develops.
- If oxygen saturation falls below 88% or drops by more than 4% from baseline, as measured by a pulse oximeter.
- If symptoms are not controlled with routine medication and disrupt daily activities.
When to start home oxygen therapy:
- If oxygen saturation falls below 88%, as measured by a pulse oximeter.
- The target oxygen saturation is 88%-92% with oxygen support, as measured by a pulse oximeter—(KNO)