When cold air is inhaled, it can cause lung pain due to various factors within the respiratory system. Cold and dry air irritates the airways, leading to discomfort, even in individuals with healthy lungs, particularly in freezing and arid conditions or during intense outdoor exercise (via the American Lung Association). People with asthma or COPD face difficulties engaging in outdoor activities due to their inflamed airways. Cold, dry air can trigger further inflammation, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, tightness, or a burning sensation in the chest.
During cold weather, the sudden influx of cold air into the lungs creates a paradox. Normally, as air enters the body, the lungs warm and humidify it. However, the airways attempt to perform their warming and humidifying functions while simultaneously being irritated by the cold temperature. This can cause dryness and irritation in the throat and lungs, often leading to discomfort. In severe cases, they may even crack and bleed due to the lack of moisture in the cold air (per Ohio State University).
