Breathing difficulty and air humidity

Our lungs, normally warmed to body temperature, are exposed to changes in outdoor temperature and air humidity. People with pulmonary problems related to sarcoidosis may experience a feeling of heavy breathing, shortness of breath, pressure or pain when temperature and humidity conditions change.

The original article proposes that symptoms may be more noticeable around the dew point—the temperature at which air becomes saturated with moisture. It describes a difference of approximately 13.6°C between the outside environment and the respiratory surface, together with high humidity, as conditions in which moisture may condense.

The article further suggests that condensation could make the lungs feel “wetter” or heavier and worsen symptoms. It gives an example of indoor temperatures between 18 and 22°C and relative humidity of 49%, calculating a dew-point relationship with a body temperature of 36.5°C and an approximate 14.5°C temperature difference.

This proposed explanation is an observation and should not be treated as an established medical mechanism or a substitute for clinical assessment. New, severe or worsening breathlessness, chest pain or low oxygen saturation requires medical attention.

Dino-Josip Ključarić, mag. theol.