Hello! Extreme cold temperatures are affecting many parts of
the USA. Below is some basic information on hypothermia and frostbite.

Hypothermia- Cold, dry air can trigger bronchospasm,
coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. People with
already-limited lung function may feel sudden fatigue, dizziness, and worsening
breathlessness.

Cold exposure can weaken immune defenses in the airways. Thickened
mucus becomes harder to clear → higher risk of exacerbations or infections 
Hypothermia
early symptoms: Shivering that may
stop as it worsens

• Slurred speech, confusion, or
brain fog

• Rapid breathing at first → slow, shallow breathing later

• Blue or pale lips/fingertips.   
Frostbite most often affects an individual’s fingers,
toes, nose, and ears. Respiratory
patients are at higher risk because of reduced circulation from chronic illness
or medications. Also, fatigue may delay noticing symptoms. 
Early frostbite signs: Numbness or tingling

• Skin turning pale, white

• Loss of fine motor control 
Cold-weather protection that actually helps: Cover your
airways-wear a scarf, gaiter, or mask over nose & mouth→ warms and
humidifies inhaled air. Protect
extremities with mittens, gloves, cover your ears fully, wear insulated socks, and layer
your clothing.

Please stay warm and safe throughout this cold spell. For more
information, please see the link below: 
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15439-frostbite