Breathe easier this winter

Breathe easier this winter with three simple steps to keep you well and out of hospital. 

1. Stop smoking 

If you have COPD, quitting smoking is the best thing you can do for your lungs. It helps you breathe more easily, reduces coughing, and cuts the risk of flare-ups. Free NHS support is available. Ask your GP, nurse, or pharmacist for advice, or visit NHS Stop Smoking. 

2. Get your winter vaccines 

Winter viruses like flu, RSV and COVID-19 can make COPD symptoms worse. Protect yourself by getting vaccinated. Ask your GP practice or local pharmacist about free winter vaccines (if eligible) including: 

• Flu 

• COVID-19 

• Pneumococcal 

• RSV 

Visit NHS Winter Vaccines to find out more

3. Use your inhalers correctly 

Using your inhalers the right way, every day, helps keep your airways open and symptoms under control. 

• Use them even when you feel well 

• Keep a spare inhaler at home 

• If you’re unsure about your technique, ask your GP, nurse or pharmacist to show you 

For more advice select your inhaler from the list and find step-by-step guidance at RightBreathe. 

Your annual COPD review 

Your GP practice may invite you for an annual COPD review. This is your chance to: 

• Check your medication and inhaler technique 

• Talk about your symptoms and what to do if they get worse 

• Get support to stop smoking 

• Make sure you’re up to date with your vaccines 

A short chat can make a big difference to your health. 

Your COPD winter checklist 

✔ Have you had your winter vaccines? 

✔ Checked your inhaler technique? 

✔ Got enough inhalers and medicines at home? 

✔ Stopped smoking or asked for help to quit? 

✔ Know what to do if your symptoms get worse? 

✔ Attended your annual COPD review? 

Speak to your GP or COPD nurse for more ways to stay healthy this winter