Top Tips for Lung Health

Now more than ever, it is important to monitor your health. And one often overlooked area of health is also one of your body’s most critical organs: your lungs. Lung health is essential for breathing, but also to ensure every organ in your body receives the oxygen it needs to function properly. Read more about the best ways to keep your lungs strong:

Don’t Smoke

Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Cigarette smoke can narrow the air passages, destroy lung tissue and make breathing more difficult. If you currently smoke, there is no better time than right now to quit.

Exercise Often

Exercise improves lung capacity and increases blood flow to your lungs. In turn, your lungs are then able to deliver more oxygen to your other organs. Adults should strive for 30 minutes of moderate physical activity five days a week.

Avoid Indoor Pollutants

Indoor pollutants such as secondhand smoke, chemicals in the home and workplace, and radon can cause or worsen lung disease. Additionally, mold, dust, and pet dander can all get into your lungs and cause irritation. Make your home smoke-free and clean, dust all surfaces and vacuum at least once a week

Avoid Outdoor Pollutants

The air quality outside can vary from day to day and can sometimes be unhealthy to breathe due to emissions caused by motor vehicles, solid fuel burning and smoke. One of the many weather apps will alert you to air quality issues so you can alter your routine as necessary.

Take Some Deep Breaths

Breathing exercises can make your lungs more efficient. Sit somewhere quiet and slowly breathe in through your nose alone. Then breathe out at least twice as long through your mouth, while counting your breaths. As a bonus, breathing exercises can help you feel less stressed and more relaxed.

Prevent Infections

Colds or other respiratory infections can become very serious. Protect yourself by washing your hands frequently with soap and water, get a seasonal flu vaccine and stay home if you are feeling ill.

Want to learn more ways to stay healthy? Follow CaroMont Health on social media for great tips and health-related content.