As temperatures begin to drop across the Valley, Pulmonologist Dr. Naveed Nazir has advised people to take extra precautions to protect themselves from seasonal respiratory illnesses during the winter months.

Dr. Nazir said that the onset of winter brings an increase in cases of cough, cold, and chest infections, particularly among children, the elderly, and those with chronic respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD.
“People should avoid unnecessary exposure to cold air, dust, and smoke. Wearing masks in crowded places, maintaining hand hygiene, and staying adequately hydrated are key preventive steps,” he advised.
Dr. Nazir also cautioned against self-medication, especially the random use of over-the-counter cough syrups. “Not all syrups are suitable for every type of cough. It is always better to consult a doctor before taking any medication. For dry cough, soothing syrups containing dextromethorphan or natural honey-based preparations may help, while for productive cough, expectorant syrups prescribed by a physician are advisable,” he said.
The pulmonologist further emphasized the importance of keeping homes well-ventilated and using humidifiers where possible to prevent throat and chest irritation caused by dry indoor air. He also urged people with chronic lung or heart diseases to get their flu and pneumonia vaccines on time.
“Simple precautions can prevent major complications during winter. Early medical advice should be sought if cough, fever, or breathing difficulty persists,” Dr. Nazir concluded.