Last winter I had a lot of trouble trying to breathe the cold outside air.

[hedgehog]

Does anyone have advice for using a scarf or filter to take care of this? I've worn filters, but sometimes they take to much effort to be used comfortably.

[hollysmom]

1. I'm sorry you are ill. I have found when it is extrodinary cold outside

it helps to breath through a knit scarf.

[hedgehog]

2. I'm really pretty functional - and much, much better off than most people

with auto-immune disorders. I've found that we can share a lot of tips that are helpful to each other. My symptoms are pretty much in control right now, but it's better to be proactive so I can be as active as possible! If I can't make my outdoor walks this winter, I'll be joining the Y.

[hollysmom]

3. I just have chronic sinus problems,

Have had the sinus holes redrilled when they sealed up, no auto immune disease here. But I do have a friend that has a very serious one and is incapacitated. I feel helpless when she has an attack of something.

So, it is good you are proactive. Take care of yourself.

[mopinko]

4. have you been tested for asthma?

this sounds like classic asthma to me. maybe what you need is a rescue inhaler.

[hedgehog]

5. It does feel like cold air induced asthma, and I do have an Advair inhaler,

but I suspect it has more to do with my Sjogren's syndrome. If i can pre-warm/humidify the air, i won't need to rely on medication. I've used a scarf, but sometimes it ends up getting soaked with moisture . I've tried some filter masks, and ended up not being able to push air through them.

[mopinko]

6. yeah, i understand.

if there are east asian import stores near you, look for pashmina scarves. very light, but repel water like wool. a longer scarf that you can move around might help. have a bit of this myself. asthma is a common second ai condition.