It's Hot in Atlanta, Why am I Having Trouble Breathing?

When you think about weather affecting your lungs, you probably think about winter.

But Atlanta's summer heat can be just as challenging if you have asthma, COPD, or other respiratory conditions. High temperatures and humidity can make breathing feel more difficult, increase shortness of breath, and even trigger flareups.

Why is it harder to breathe in the heat?

Heat and humidity make your body work harder to cool itself, which can put extra strain on your lungs. Humid air may also feel "heavier" to breathe, making everyday activities like walking or gardening more tiring than usual.

We've all seen those "air quality alerts" in Atlanta during the summer. On hot and humid days, air quality can quickly deteriorate, making it harder to breathe. Those alerts aren't just an inconvenience - they're a sign that the air can be especially irritating for people with asthma, COPD, and other lung conditions.

Related Topic - Traveling with COPD This Summer: What You Need to Know Before You Go

How to Breathe Easier on Hot Summer Days in Atlanta

Drink plenty of water. One of the best ways to protect your lungs is to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps keep mucus thinner, making it easier to clear your airways.

Exercise when it's cooler. If you enjoy exercising or taking walks, try to do so early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler and the sun is less intense.

Take your medications. And if you have asthma or COPD, continue taking your medications as prescribed, pay attention to how you're feeling on especially hot days, and don't hesitate to contact your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen.

With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy summer while keeping your lungs healthy.

Ngozika Orjioke, MD, FCCP, is a board-certified physician in Pulmonary and Critical Care in metro Atlanta. With more than 30 years of experience, she is devoted to helping her patients in treating lung-related illnesses, such as asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, tobacco use disorder, HIV-related lung disease and more. She is committed to improving the health of her community, and provides exceptional and culturally sensitive care to every patient. She appears on the American Lung Association’s list of Trusted Organizations in the Black Community, and is ranked in the top 25 by U.S. News among 358 pulmonologists in Atlanta. She is affiliated with Southern Regional Medical Center.