It is a true statement that we don’t think about our breathing until the moment it becomes hard to do so. We truly take our lungs for granted. However, for the month of October, many organizations make it their goal to bring awareness to the public about the importance when it comes to taking care of your lungs. Taking care of your lungs should be a high priority when it comes to your health.
It is important to be reminded of the various things in our daily life and environment that can cause harm and damage to our lungs. Many senior citizens are affected by a variety of lung diseases. Some of those who suffer from various lung illnesses include those suffering from:
- Chronic bronchitis
- Emphysema
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Asthma
- Mesothelioma
- Asbestosis
There are many forms of pollutants that exist in both indoors and outdoors. Here are some suggestions when it comes to helping those who have a lung disease:
- Fill your living space with plants. Did you know that plants can help purify the air? Plants can also help purify the air as they remove toxins like xylene, formaldehyde, benzene and toluene. Some plants that make great natural air purifiers include spider plants and aloe vera.
- Buy natural products. Most likely, many of the products that you use around your living space contains fragrances and chemicals. When possible, choose to buy natural, fragrance-free products.
- Test for Radon. Radon is an odorless, colorless gas that is the second leading cause for lung cancer in the country. You can purchase a radon detector for this.
- Invest in an air purifier for your home and a vacuum with a HEPA filter that can reduce lead, allergens and chemical build-up.
- Stop smoking. If you smoke, it is never too late to stop smoking and see the benefits from it.
Some ways that you can observe Healthy Lung Month include:
- Clean your home – Regularly dust your home, wash your blankets and rugs in order to free them of allergens like dust and pet dander.
- Exercise – Work with your healthcare professional to work on an exercise routine that can help your lungs. You may be encouraged to begin swimming, walking or even dancing.
- Have a regular check-up – You should always be honest with your symptoms should you start to notice shortness of breath. Even if you don’t exhibit symptoms of a lung illness, you should routinely have a check-up with your doctor.
- Prevent infection – A respiratory infection can become very serious quickly. Wash your hands often with water and soap. Practice social distancing to avoid becoming infected with any illnesses and diseases that can attack the lung, such as COVID-19.
As with any medical conditions, we encourage you to consult with your healthcare professionals when it comes to lung-related illnesses.
