How to keep your lungs strong for COVID-19

Since the current COVID-19 pandemic began, we have all been more aware of the importance of respiratory surveillance and the signs and symptoms of respiratory or breathing difficulties. Respiratory health is critical for overall health.

Whether you are in good health or have a lung problem, there are numerous things you can do to safeguard your lungs and overall health and well-being. Your lungs, along with your heart, are among your most critical organs. That is why it is prudent to take proactive measures to maintain their health. An investment in lung health, like heart health, will provide dividends.

Here are some suggestions for maintaining optimal lung health.

Put an end to your smoking.

If you smoke, make a concerted effort to quit. Your physician can refer you to a variety of smoking cessation programs. If you have family members who smoke, encourage them to leave to reduce your exposure to secondhand smoke. Tobacco use is associated with various significant lung disorders, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer. Smoking tobacco, or any other substance, irritates the lungs, resulting in inflammation. Inflammation is frequently a role in a variety of lung illnesses.

Put an end to vaping.

There are numerous unknowns about the use of e-cigarettes (also known as vaping). There is currently no conclusive evidence linking vaping and lung disease. However, sufficient anecdotal data shows that vaping is harmful to the lungs.

E-cigarettes emit a variety of harmful compounds that can cause lung and heart problems. Additionally, e-cigarettes contain acrolein; a pesticide typically used to eradicate weeds. It can result in acute lung injury, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and lung cancer. Additionally, vaping has been linked to frequent asthma flare-ups and can result in recurrent pneumothorax (lung collapse).

If you’re utilizing vaping to aid in your smoking cessation efforts, alternative items such as patches and gums may be a better option.

Exposure to indoor contaminants should be kept to a minimum.

The inhalation of radon gas has been linked to lung damage. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that rises from the earth’s crust. This gas can become trapped in homes that sit directly above radon-emitting sites, causing lung harm. Most hardware stores have radon testing kits. Additionally, avoid excessive exposure to solvents and other industrial chemicals and particulate matter such as sawdust, irritating the lungs. Always wear proper filtration devices when dealing with materials or substances that cause lung injury.

Consider investing in a high-quality HEPA filter for your home if you live near highways or other sources of pollution. Maintaining a mold-free environment and putting carbon monoxide detectors in your house are additional ways to keep your lungs healthy.

Reduce your exposure to toxins in the environment

Consult your local air quality authority to see which days have the highest pollution levels. Avoid exercising outdoors on these days. If you live in an area prone to fires or other substantial sources of pollution, invest in a high-quality HEPA filter and confine yourself to your home. Individuals with asthma or other lung disorders may experience significant symptoms on certain days. Avoid occupational exposure to asbestos, excessive dust, chemicals, and poisons. When exposed to airborne irritants and dust, wear appropriate protective gear such as facial masks and respirators.

Reduce your infection risk

The American Lung Association recommends regular handwashing for general hygiene and infection prevention. Numerous upper respiratory infections are preventable with simple handwashing. When soap and water are unavailable, hand sanitizers containing at least 99 percent alcohol are an acceptable substitute. Alcohol at lower amounts may be ineffective in preventing many respiratory illnesses.

Brush your teeth every day to maintain healthy oral hygiene. This will help prevent the spread of germs from your mouth to your lungs.

Additionally, you should get vaccinated against the flu each year. The typical time to get your flu vaccination is in the fall, as flu season begins as summer finishes. Finally, if you have not already done so, obtain a COVID-19 vaccination.

Maintain routine examinations

Consult your health care professional frequently. Your health care practitioner will listen to your breathing and address any concerns you may have during a check-up. Numerous lung disorders are more manageable if detected early. A routine checkup is critical for preserving lung health and recognizing problems.

Participate in physical activity

Exercise is beneficial for various reasons, and lung health is the only one. When you exercise, your heart and lungs work harder to supply the additional oxygen required by your muscles. Regular exercise strengthens your muscles and strengthens your lungs and heart. If you are obese, decreasing weight can improve lung function, prevent asthma from worsening, and lower your risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea.

Breathe deeply.

Breathing exercises can assist boost the efficiency of your lungs, while deep breathing can help restore diaphragm function and lung capacity. The objective is to improve one’s ability to breathe deeply during all activities, not only during rest.

While anybody can benefit from deep breathing exercises, they are particularly beneficial during the COVID-19 recovery phase. Pursed lip breathing decreases the number of breaths you take and keeps your airways open longer, allowing for increased airflow into and out of your lungs and increased physical activity. When breathing diaphragmatically, or “belly breathing,” the stomach, abdominal muscles, and diaphragm are fully engaged. This requires the diaphragm to be consciously drawn down with each inward breath. In this approach, diaphragmatic breathing aids in the efficient filling of the lungs.

Consume healthfully

According to research, lifestyle adjustments, such as eating a nutrient-dense diet, can help preserve your lungs and potentially help lessen lung damage and disease symptoms. Complex carbohydrates high in fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables, and a protein-rich diet can all contribute to improved lung health. Consuming four to six small meals each day allows your diaphragm to move freely and your lungs to fill and empty with air more effortlessly.

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