The pulmonologist warned about the risks of smoking in the cold season

The combination of cold air and tobacco smoke increases the load on the respiratory system and increases the risk of exacerbations of chronic lung diseases. On February 27, Zaurbek Aisanov, a pulmonologist of the highest category, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor of the Department of Pulmonology at the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, told Izvestia.

According to him, patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are particularly vulnerable.

"When the air temperature decreases, the risks for smokers increase, each puff of a cigarette causes a blow to the lungs. Cold air by itself causes bronchial spasm, and toxic substances from tobacco smoke increase inflammation and tissue damage," the specialist explained.

The expert stated that the cold provokes bronchial constriction as a protective reaction of the body. In smokers, this mechanism is more pronounced due to chronic inflammation of the respiratory tract. If you imagine breathing through a narrowed tube and inhaling acrid smoke at the same time, this creates ideal conditions for exacerbating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

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In addition, Aisanov added, cold air stimulates increased mucus production. At the same time, tobacco smoke disrupts the work of the ciliated epithelium, which is responsible for its excretion. As a result, sputum stagnation occurs, which creates a favorable environment for bacterial growth.

Winter air pollution is becoming an additional risk factor. During the heating season, the concentration of harmful substances in the atmosphere often increases.

"The combination of cold, smog and tobacco smoke is a toxic cocktail for the lungs," the doctor warned.

According to experts, in the cold months, mortality from respiratory diseases is 17-20% higher than in summer, and the risk of exacerbations in patients with COPD increases two to three times in winter. Aisanov recommended that smokers over the age of 40 undergo spirometry to assess lung function.

On February 20, Elina Santoro, an ophthalmologist at the 3Z federal clinic network, told Izvestia about the effects of vaping on the eyes. According to her, usually the negative impact is manifested through the typical symptoms of irritation. Users may experience dryness, burning, itching, and a feeling of sand in their eyes. Redness, increased lacrimation, photophobia, periodic blurred vision, headaches and fatigue when reading or working at a monitor are also possible.

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