As winter settles over Australia, many people experience an increase in respiratory issues. Cold air, combined with indoor heating, can irritate the respiratory system, making breathing more difficult, especially for those with asthma, bronchitis, or other chronic respiratory conditions. According to Asthma Australia, more than 2.7 million Australians live with asthma, and cold, dry air can trigger symptoms or worsen existing conditions.
If you find winter exacerbating your respiratory woes, you’re not alone. But there’s good news: Warm Water Hydrotherapy can be a highly effective treatment for managing respiratory issues, helping you breathe easier and feel more comfortable, even in the colder months.
How winter affects the respiratory system
The cooler temperatures and dry air during winter can increase the production of mucus in the respiratory system, leading to congestion and difficulty breathing. For individuals with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), this can trigger flare-ups, causing increased coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. A report from the Australian Lung Foundation states that people with respiratory conditions are at a higher risk of complications during colder months, which is why maintaining lung health is critical during this time.
In addition to this, the body's natural response to cold air is to constrict the airways, which further restricts airflow. The combination of these factors can make simple tasks like walking or climbing stairs feel more difficult for those with respiratory conditions.
The benefits of warm water Hydrotherapy for respiratory health
Hydrotherapy, particularly in a warm water environment, offers a multitude of benefits for people with respiratory conditions.
Here’s how Hydrotherapy can help you breathe easier during the colder months:
- Warmth promotes relaxation: The heat of the water helps relax muscles, including those around the chest and diaphragm, making it easier to take deep breaths. This can be particularly helpful for those who suffer from bronchial spasms or tightness in the chest.
- Increased lung capacity: Water-based exercises are known to improve lung function. The buoyancy of water allows for improved movement of the chest wall, which helps increase lung capacity and promotes deep breathing. The gentle resistance from the water helps improve your ability to exhale fully, clearing your lungs of excess mucus.
- Improved circulation: The warm water helps stimulate blood circulation, which can ease inflammation and improve the body's ability to fight off infections – essential during flu season. This is particularly important for individuals who may be dealing with the aftermath of a cold or flu.
- Low impact exercise: Hydrotherapy offers a low impact way to exercise, which is crucial when managing respiratory conditions. It’s easier on the joints, allowing you to engage in breathing exercises and gentle stretches without straining your body.
- Increased relaxation and stress relief: Chronic stress can worsen respiratory symptoms. The soothing nature of warm water helps reduce stress levels, promoting relaxation and improving overall wellbeing.
At Healthstin, we understand the unique challenges that come with respiratory conditions, particularly in the winter months. Our Salisbury Hydrotherapy Clinic provides Hydrotherapy services designed to provide relief in a controlled, warm- water environment.
With the guidance of our Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapists, you will be able to access personalised Hydrotherapy programmes that focus on improving lung function, increasing circulation, and enhancing overall mobility. Whether you're managing asthma, bronchitis, or another respiratory condition, Hydrotherapy can provide a safe, supportive environment for improving your respiratory health and wellbeing.
Interested in trying Hydrotherapy? You can book an appointment here.
