Breathing freely is something most people don’t think about — until congestion, coughing, or chest tightness make every breath a struggle. During the winter months, lung infections become especially common, often leading to weeks of discomfort and fatigue.
At Michael N. Newton, MD, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating respiratory illnesses that tend to strike when the weather turns cold. Whether your symptoms stem from a viral infection or a more serious bacterial issue, we’re here to help you breathe easier all winter long.
When the air gets colder, it also gets drier — and dry air can irritate your airways and weaken your lungs’ natural defenses. Combine that with spending more time indoors, where viruses and bacteria spread more easily, and you have the perfect environment for lung infections to take hold.
Common winter lung infections include:
Bronchitis – inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs
Pneumonia – infection of the tiny air sacs (alveoli) inside your lungs
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – a viral infection that can cause serious illness, especially in infants and older adults
Influenza (flu) – a viral infection that affects your respiratory tract and can sometimes lead to secondary lung infections
Not all winter coughs are created equal. Understanding where an infection occurs in your respiratory system can help determine how serious it might be.
Upper respiratory infections (URIs) affect your nose, sinuses, and throat. These include the common cold and sinus infections.
Lower respiratory infections (LRIs) affect your lungs and airways — such as bronchitis and pneumonia — and can lead to more severe breathing problems.
Both types can cause coughing, congestion, and fatigue, but lower respiratory infections often cause shortness of breath, chest tightness, and deep fatigue.
Winter lung infections can vary in severity, but many share similar warning signs:
Persistent cough (with or without mucus)
Chest discomfort or tightness
Shortness of breath
Wheezing or rattling sounds when breathing
Fatigue or weakness
Fever, chills, or night sweats
You may notice your symptoms getting worse instead of better after several days — a key sign that a bacterial infection or pneumonia could be developing.
Mild viral infections often resolve with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter remedies. But if your symptoms worsen or linger longer than expected, it’s time to seek medical care.
Contact our office right away if you experience:
Difficulty breathing or catching your breath
High fever or chills
Chest pain or pressure
Confusion or dizziness
A cough lasting longer than 10 days
Prompt evaluation allows us to determine whether your infection is viral or bacterial — and to begin the most effective treatment plan quickly.
You can’t control the weather, but you can reduce your risk of getting sick. A few preventive steps go a long way toward keeping your lungs healthy:
Get your annual flu and pneumonia vaccines
Wash your hands frequently
Use a humidifier to keep indoor air moist
Avoid close contact with people who are ill
Dress warmly to protect your airways from cold, dry air
Stay active and eat a balanced diet to support your immune system
If winter lung infections have left you struggling to breathe comfortably, don’t wait to get help. At Michael N. Newton, MD, we use advanced diagnostic tools and compassionate care to identify the cause of your symptoms and get you back to full health.
Breathe easier this winter — call our Tampa, Florida office or schedule an appointment online today. Our team is here to help you stay healthy, strong, and ready to enjoy the season.
