Before my lung transplant, there were risks to going outside in any season
Whether I went outside or not was often determined by the weather
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Living with cystic fibrosis (CF) made me very aware of breathing.
Before my double-lung transplant eight years ago, I’d check the weather before committing to any plans, because protecting my lung health from allergens, weather triggers, and anything that could cause inflammation was essential to my well-being.
Since my body lacks the salt content to effectively clear mucus, my old lungs often filled with thick, sticky mucus that clogged my airways, causing frequent respiratory infections and creating a breeding ground for germs to run rampant. Changes in the weather and seasons had a way of making those symptoms worse.
No safe season
Bitter cold winters made breathing outside difficult. I would often decline to leave the house, cancel plans, and limit social engagements because the ice-cold air would burn my lungs, leaving me breathless or triggering a coughing fit.
I felt terrible when it rained, too. The moisture-filled air made it hard to breathe and was a breeding ground for germs, resulting in thicker, stickier mucus and increasing my risk of respiratory infections.
We have hot, humid summers here in the Northeast, so I avoided going out in sauna-like weather. Getting hit in the face with thick, muggy air caused more congestion and made my breathing heavy. I often stayed inside in the air conditioning, and yes, it was frustrating to be inside on warm, sunny days, but trying to breathe thick, humid air wasn’t worth it.
Autumn also brought breathing issues. Mold and mildew would trigger wheezing and congestion. Growing up, I couldn’t jump into a pile of leaves like other kids, and I couldn’t rake leaves in my yard, either. Thankfully, family and friends did this for me.
New lungs
I’m grateful that my new lungs are healthy and strong. I’m no longer congested, don’t struggle to breathe, and don’t often have to plan my activities around the weather. I get to spend my time very differently now.
It’s been a dream to experience all four seasons in a way I never could before. I can breathe in the cold air without it burning my lungs, and I love going for walks at night when it’s snowing as the world gets quiet and all I can see is each snowflake falling. It’s so magical. And I get to dance in the rain, no longer feeling the heaviness from the precipitation.
I also love swimming in crystal-clear lakes during the hot, humid days. It’s a sweet change from being stuck in air conditioning. During the crisp, clear days of autumn, I now go apple picking, hike through the woods, and even rake leaves, albeit with a mask because I’m still learning what my new lungs are capable of doing.
Each day feels like a gift from God, allowing me to engage with the world around me in a completely different way, especially as the seasons and environments change.
What felt impossible before my lung transplant is now my reality, which still feels surreal. I’m in awe of the things I get to experience since my transplant, regardless of the weather.
Note: Cystic Fibrosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cystic Fibrosis News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to cystic fibrosis.
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