Whether you live in a colder climate year-round or you experience a couple months of cold weather yearly, if you have a chronic lung disease, you understand how changes in the weather can affect your health.
People with COPD, or another form of chronic lung disease such as pulmonary fibrosis, may experience worsened symptoms during cold weather because the cold air is dry and removes moisture from the bronchial passages, creating inflammation which narrows airways.
However, you can take proactive steps to keep your lungs warm. Besides wearing warm clothing and keeping oxygen tubing underneath your clothes, wearing a mask designed for people with lung disease, such as the CT Mask for COPD, could help you breathe more easily.
What is the CT Mask for COPD and how does it work?
Made by Air Guard Medical Products Co., the CT Mask was made to give people with lung disease, such as asthma and COPD, the ability to breathe warm, moist air outdoors in cold weather.
Inside the CT Mask is a thermal exchange module, which affects a heat exchange cycle, regulating air flow through its chambers. The heat and moisture from your exhaled breath is captured inside the module and transferred into your next inhaled breath as warm, moist, fresh air.
What are the product details for the CT Mask for COPD?
Adjustable straps for the best fit
Durable enough for 90-120 washings
Hand-washable in warm water with non-allergic soap; air-dry
Made with soft Polartec fleece, antimicrobial copper mesh, Poron, and napped Lycra jersey materials
How cold does it need to be to use the CT Mask for COPD?
Each individual is different. For some people, temperatures in the fifties are uncomfortable. For others, temperatures in the forties and lower feel cold. If it feels cold outside to you, then it’s fine to wear your CT Mask.
What are the risks and benefits of wearing the CT Mask for COPD?
The CT Mask is not for everyone, and some people may feel that the mask restricts their airflow, causing them discomfort. If this happens, stop wearing the mask.
In addition to lung benefits, Air Guard Medical states that breathing warm air when you’re in cold weather helps keep your entire body warmer.
The CT Mask should not fog eyeglasses when worn properly. Most outdoor activities can be enjoyed while wearing CT Masks.
Before using the mask or changing your activity level, it’s important to discuss your activities and use of the CT Mask with your doctor. If you and your physician decide that a CT Mask is right for you, then you can purchase one on Amazon.
What else can I do to treat COPD?
With advancements in medications, lifestyle modifications, assistive devices, and alternative medicine, there is hope for people with lung disease. If you feel that your symptoms are worsened by cold weather, talk with your doctor about options to help you stay active, such as wearing a CT Mask for COPD.
Christine Kingsley, APRN is the Health and Wellness Director at the Lung Institute where she focuses on providing helpful online resources for people looking for information on various lung diseases, breathing exercises, and healthy lifestyle choices. She advocates for holistic care that involves working with your doctor to explore all options including traditional and alternative care while focusing on diet and exercise as proactive measures.
