6 mistakes that can damage the lungs and ways to avoid them

6 mistakes that can damage the lungs and ways to avoid them

Our lungs are critical organs of our body. But we often tend to ignore maintaining our lung health. Like other parts of the body, the lungs tend to become less flexible over a period of time. This can lead to breathing issues. Engaging in certain practices might unknowingly be bad for your lungs. Let’s spare some time and understand the mistakes that can damage the lungs and how to avoid them.

Untidy houses and buildings
Untidy homes and buildings can give rise to mold and dust mites, both of which can cause respiratory issues. These problems can be avoided with regular cleaning and sufficient ventilation. Also, the common carpets used at home can gather dust and allergens over time, especially if you have pets around. It is essential to vacuum them often and seek professional cleaning services on a regular basis.

Exercising in heavy traffic areas
Exercising in congested areas such as a city park might be harmful. To prevent the hazards connected with high-traffic regions, one should exercise in a safe and less crowded location, such as a gym. Additionally, the time of the day matters. The quality of the air can vary greatly depending on which time you choose to exercise. Air pollutant concentrations are highest early in the morning and late at night. So it’s better to maintain caution while working out during these times.

Breathing in polluted air
Pollution is inevitable, but breathing in polluted air can be avoided. To protect your lungs from the adverse effects of poor air quality, avoid outdoor activities at times when air pollution is at its peak. The outdoor air quality is declining, but certain precautionary steps can be helpful.

Ignoring indoor air quality
Indoor air quality is another mistake that can damage the lungs, especially when most of the day is spent indoors. Mold, dust mites, and furniture may all leak harmful gasses into the environment, causing allergies and other health problems. So what’s the solution? Ventilation can assist in cleaning indoor air by removing or diluting toxins from indoor airborne sources, therefore improving indoor air quality. Installing an air purifier may also be beneficial as they are designed to remove gaseous pollutants.

An inactive lifestyle
Sedentary lifestyle and lung health are related. Your muscles may develop weaknesses if you avoid activities that leave you short of breath. A higher amount of oxygen is required for these weaker muscles to function, and you tend to gradually feel increasingly out of breath. You may strengthen your muscles, especially your breathing muscles, by engaging in simple activities like walking.

Neglecting post-infection care
Some lung diseases, such as pneumonia and influenza, need care both during and after the infection. It is critical to prioritize lung health and take precautions to protect them from future issues. Neglecting post-infection treatment can result in long-term lung damage, which can be avoided by being active and participating in respiratory exercises recommended by healthcare specialists.

The lungs are vital organs that play an essential part in our respiratory system. Maintaining their health is critical for general well-being and longevity. Understanding the mistakes that can damage lungs is the first step towards keeping them healthy. Simple precautions like avoiding pollutants, exercising frequently, and seeking assistance for any respiratory difficulties will keep our lungs safe. Start step by step and live a long, healthy life.

Popular Articles

01

How to distinguish between heartburn and GERD

Heartburn is an unpleasant, burning sensation in the chest that is more common than a lot of individuals realize. Pregnant women, older men, and even young adults experience it frequently. Despite it being such a prevalent experience, not many know that heartburn has actually nothing to do with the heart and everything to do with the stomach and the esophagus. Unsurprisingly enough, heartburn is also used interchangeably with GERD. But, before we get to deciphering heartburn and GERD, let’s understand what acid reflux is. What is acid reflux or GER? Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter or LES becomes weak, allowing the contents of the stomach to travel in the wrong direction, back up the esophagus. Acid reflux is also called GER or gastroesophageal reflux as it involves the stomach and esophagus. This condition can usually be resolved with over-the-counter medication. What is heartburn? Heartburn is a burning or painful sensation that is experienced in the chest. Since the lining of the esophagus is not as strong as the lining of the stomach, the acid from the stomach can cause a burning sensation in the chest. This pain or burning sensation that is heartburn can often be misconstrued for a heart attack.
Read More
02

5 common joint conditions and how to treat them

A joint or articulation is made from two bones that aid the body in movement. There are many forms of joint conditions, which, in many cases, arise from the wear and tear of bones. Arthritis is one of the major and most common health conditions in the country, and its intensity increases with age. Here are some common types of joint conditions that you need to know: Osteoarthritis With almost 10 percent of men and 13 percent of women aged over 60 suffering from osteoarthritis, it is one of the most prevalent joint conditions in the country. Osteoarthritis occurs due to the wear and tear of the cartilages that protect the ends of bones. It commonly affects joints of the spine, hands, hips, and knees. If left untreated, this wear and tear of the cartilage soon leads to bone degeneration, thereby affecting flexibility and range of movement. Treatment for osteoarthritis depends on its severity and the patient’s age. Mild symptoms can be treated through medications, physiotherapy, and changes in lifestyle, whereas moderate to severe cases may require surgical intervention. Spondyloarthritis Spondyloarthritis, also referred to as spondyloarthropathy, is a type of rheumatic disease that causes inflammation in various joints. There are two types of spondyloarthritis—axial spondyloarthritis, which causes inflammation of the joints in the chest, spine, and hip bone, and peripheral spondyloarthritis, which causes inflammation in the fingers, knees, and toes.
Read More
03

Tips to help you strengthen your immune system

Natural selection has transformed the way in which the human immune system works. While some human genes have evolved to become immune to certain diseases, others have not. This leaves a whole lot of people prone to certain diseases and disorders. That said, there are ways to boost the immune system, improve one’s diet, and lead a healthier lifestyle. Here are a few simple steps that you can take to strengthen the immune system: Ensure adequate sleep There are quite a few studies that prove the relationship between adequate sleep and the strength of the immune system. As an adult, you should ensure that you get seven to eight hours of sleep every night. A teenager should get eight to ten hours of sleep, whereas a young child should get at least 14 hours of sleep on a daily basis. If you have disturbed or no sleep, then you can improve your sleep cycle with these quick tips: Try sleeping in a room that is completely dark Get to bed at the same time every night. This will help regulate your sleep pattern Avoid using electronics that emit blue light before bed Maintain a diet of fruits and vegetables Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains contain essential minerals, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Read More