'The last thing you want to do is end up on a ventilator' as local woman urges others with COPD to protect themselves this winter

NHS Sussex is urging people living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) to take steps to protect their health this winter, as cold weather, damp conditions and circulating respiratory viruses can make symptoms significantly worse and increase the risk of serious flare-ups.

For many people, winter can be particularly challenging. Cold air can tighten the airways, while common infections such as flu, Covid-19 and RSV can trigger exacerbations that may lead to hospital admission.

Seventy-one-year-old Mary from Portslade lives with severe COPD and knows how quickly her health can deteriorate during the colder months. This year, she has taken early action to protect herself.

Mary, 71, from Portslade, said: "I've had COVID and I've had the flu vaccination early because I know I'll get very ill if I don't with my severe COPD. I was in hospital three times last year, so this year, no way. The last thing you want to do is end up on a ventilator. I try to stay healthy and go out, exercise, stick with the programme they give us.

"There are good days and bad days and there's great help as well. The respiratory service are very supportive."

Mary is encouraging others with COPD to take similar steps to stay well. Her short video message can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/hS6dJIDr0rs

NHS Sussex is reminding people with COPD to take up all winter vaccinations they are eligible for, stay warm and avoid known triggers, keep active, and be aware of the early signs of a flare-up so they can seek help promptly. Even small preventative actions can make a significant difference to staying well and avoiding unnecessary hospital admissions.

Dr Amy Dissanyake, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Sussex, said: "Winter can be a particularly high risk period for people living with COPD, as cold air and seasonal viruses can quickly worsen breathing difficulties. Simple preventative steps, such as having all recommended vaccinations, staying warm, keeping active, and seeking help early if symptoms change can make a substantial difference to staying well.

"Across Sussex, we are committed to ensuring people with COPD receive consistent, high quality support so they can manage their condition confidently throughout the colder months."

This winter message also aligns with the launch of a new Sussex-wide COPD guideline developed collaboratively by clinicians from across the county. The unified framework sets out consistent standards to support earlier diagnosis, improve access to treatment, and help reduce hospital admissions for the 36,000 people living with COPD in Sussex.

The full story on the new county-wide COPD guideline, developed by University Hospitals Sussex and partners, can be found here: Sussex launches unified care approach to improve COPD support for thousands.