How to protect your lungs?
Sometimes we take our lungs for granted. They keep us alive and well and for the most part, we don't need to think about them. That's why it is important to prioritize your lung health.
Accordingly, your body has a natural defense system to protect the lungs, keeping dirt and germs at bay. But you could do some important things to potentially reduce your risk of lung disease. Here are some ways to keep your lungs healthy.
Don't Smoke
It could cause chronic inflammation or swell in the lung, which might lead to chronic bronchitis. Over time cigarette smoke destroys lung tissue and may trigger changes that grow into cancer. If you smoke, it's never too late to benefit from quitting.
Avoid Exposure to Indoor Pollutants That Can Damage Your Lungs
Secondhand smoke, chemicals in the home and workplace, and radon all could cause or worsen lung disease. Make your home and car smoke-free. Test your home for radon. Avoid exercising outdoors on bad air days. And talk to your healthcare provider if you are worried that something in your home, school, or work may be making you sick.
Minimize Exposure to Outdoor Air Pollution
The air quality outside could vary daily and sometimes is unhealthy to breathe. Knowing how outdoor air pollution affects your health and useful strategies to minimize prolonged exposure could help keep you and your family well. Climate change and natural disasters can also directly impact lung health.
Prevent Infection
A cold or other respiratory infection can sometimes become very serious. There are several things you can do to protect yourself:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. Alcohol-based cleaners are a good substitute if you cannot wash.
- Avoids crowds during the cold and flu season.
- Good oral hygiene can protect you from the germs in your mouth leading to infections. Brush your teeth at least twice daily and see your dentist at least every six months.
- Get vaccinated every year against influenza. Talk to your healthcare provider to find out if the pneumonia vaccine is right for you. When a COVID-19 vaccine is available to you, we encourage you to utilize this safe and effective tool to prevent severe illness from occurring.
- If you get sick, keep it to yourself! Protect the people around you, including your loved ones, by keeping your distance. Stay home from work or school until you're feeling better.
Get Regular Check-ups
Regular check-ups could help prevent diseases, even when you are feeling well. This is especially true for lung disease, which sometimes goes undetected until it is serious. During a check-up, your healthcare provider will listen to your breathing and listen to your concerns. If you need health insurance, learn more about your options.
Exercise
Whether you are young or old, slender or large, able-bodied or living with a chronic illness or disability, being physically active can help keep your lungs healthy. Learn more about how exercise can strengthen your lungs.
Why is salt good for your lungs?
Salt was said to be antibacterial, antiviral, and antimicrobial – meaning it destroys or inhibits the growth of toxins and pathogens in your lungs. As it enters your respiratory system, it absorbs toxic moisture, cleanses, clears away excess mucus, and gets rid of harmful bacteria.
