Warm weather can be a welcome change, but for people living with COPD, summer heat can make breathing even more difficult. That doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors all season. With a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy the summer months while keeping your lungs and body safe.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with COPD, understanding your symptoms and knowing how to manage them in warmer weather is key to feeling your best.

What Is COPD?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a long-term condition that makes it harder to breathe over time. It includes illnesses like emphysema and chronic bronchitis, and often develops from years of smoking, exposure to air pollution, or other lung irritants.

When we have COPD, our lungs don’t move air in and out as easily as they used to. This can make it harder to do everyday things, like walking to the mailbox, climbing stairs, or carrying groceries, without getting short of breath.

Common Symptoms of COPD

COPD symptoms can vary from person to person, but many people experience:

• Shortness of breath, especially during activity
• A frequent cough that may bring up mucus
• Wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing
• Feeling tired or low on energy
• Chest tightness or discomfort

If these symptoms sound familiar, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. Managing COPD well means paying attention to your body, taking your medications as directed, and knowing how to adjust your activities during different seasons.

Why Summer Can Be Tough on Your Lungs

Hot, humid air can make it harder to breathe, especially if you already have lung issues. The heat can cause your heart and lungs to work harder, leading to more shortness of breath. On top of that, summer air often carries more pollen, smoke, and other irritants that can trigger flare-ups.

But here’s the good news: with a few mindful habits, it’s possible to stay active and enjoy your summer while protecting your lungs.

7 Tips to Stay Active and Safe This Summer

We all want to enjoy the sunshine, but for people living with COPD, being smart about the heat and your activity level is the key to staying safe.

1. Avoid the Hottest Part of the Day

Try to plan outdoor activities during the cooler hours—early in the morning or the evening, when the sun is lower and temperatures are milder. Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the sun and heat are strongest, and that’s when it’s best to stay indoors or in the shade.

If you do need to go out during warmer hours, rest often, walk slowly, and try to stay near air-conditioned places.

2. Use a Fan Indoors

Even if your home is air-conditioned, fans can help move air around and keep you cooler. Sitting near a fan can make it easier to breathe, especially in high humidity. Just make sure fans are clean and free from dust, which can irritate your lungs.

If you use oxygen therapy, check with your doctor before sitting directly in front of a fan, as strong airflow can sometimes interfere with the flow of oxygen.

3. Drink Plenty of Water

When it’s hot, our bodies lose more water through sweat—even when we’re just sitting still. Staying hydrated helps thin out mucus in your lungs, making it easier to breathe. Aim to drink water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Skip sugary drinks, alcohol, or too much caffeine, which can leave you dehydrated.

4. Wear Light, Breathable Clothing

Choose loose-fitting clothes made from lightweight materials, such as cotton or linen. Lighter colors reflect sunlight, helping to keep you cool. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses if you’re heading outside—protecting yourself from sun exposure can reduce stress on your body.

5. Take Breaks and Know Your Limits

It’s important to stay active, but pacing yourself matters. Don’t try to push through breathlessness or fatigue. If you’re feeling winded, dizzy, or overheated, stop and rest in a cool place.

COPD affects everyone differently, so listen to your body and take breaks when you need them.

6. Avoid Smoky or Polluted Air

In the summer, wildfires, barbecues, and increased pollution can trigger breathing problems. Check your local air quality index (AQI) daily, especially on hot or dry days. If the air quality is poor, it’s best to stay indoors with windows closed and a clean air filter running, if possible.

7. Keep Your Medications Handy

Always have your rescue inhaler or prescribed medications with you, especially when going out for a walk or attending a family gathering. Make sure you take your daily medications on schedule and never skip doses, especially during heatwaves or allergy season.

If you use oxygen therapy, keep extra tubing and batteries on hand if needed, and don’t leave your equipment in a hot car.

Staying in Touch with Your Care Team

One of the most important parts of managing COPD—summer or not—is having regular check-ins with your healthcare provider. These visits help monitor your symptoms, adjust medications if needed, and catch signs of flare-ups before they become serious.

Even small changes in your breathing could mean it’s time to adjust your care plan. That’s why we encourage you to call your doctor if:

• You’re using your inhaler more often than usual
• You notice more coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
• You feel more tired than normal or have trouble sleeping
• You have chest discomfort or feel dizzy

Early support can prevent bigger problems down the road. Never wait until things feel urgent. Reach out for help as soon as something feels off.

You’re Not Alone

Living with COPD can feel overwhelming at times, especially during the summer months when heat and air quality make things harder. But you don’t have to face it alone.

With a little planning, smart daily habits, and ongoing support from your healthcare team, you can breathe easier and enjoy life, one day, one breath at a time.

If you are having trouble managing your COPD, be sure to check in with your primary care doctor regularly. We’re here to support you and ensure you receive the care you need.

If you aren’t already a patient and are looking for a new provider, we would like to meet you! Click here to find a center near you and visit us.