We often neglect the health of our lungs until we experience any problem in breathing. Lungs are the primary organs of the respiratory system that help in providing oxygen to capillaries so that the blood can be oxygenated.
They also help the body to release CO2 gas during exhalation. Lungs are one of the most active organs of the body.
A healthy person nearly breathes about 25,000 times in a day. Any damage to the airways can threaten the lungs’ ability to function properly, and may lead to many disorders affecting the lungs.
Any damage to lung may cause problems like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, pneumonia, emphysema, cystic fibrosis, tuberculosis, lung cancer, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
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COVID-19 is also a respiratory disease and is the one that especially reaches into your respiratory tract, which includes your lungs.
It can cause a range of breathing problems, from mild to critical. Older adults and people who have other health conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes may have more serious symptoms.
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Covid- 19 can cause lung complications such as pneumonia and, in the most severe cases, acute respiratory distress syndrome, or ARDS. Sepsis, another possible complication of COVID-19, can also cause lasting harm to the lungs and other organs.
Some lung diseases can lead to respiratory failure. Below are five simple ways to keep your lungs strong and healthy especially during COVID-19:
Quit Smoking
Cigarette smoke contains thousands of chemicals that can harm the body. Serious lung diseases like lung cancer and COPD are majorly caused by smoking.
Therefore, you have to quit smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke to protect your lungs from possible damage.
Avoid Exposure to Pollutants
Climate change and over-exposure to outside pollutants severely affect the lungs. There are several pollutants present in the air that can cause damage to your lungs. For example, synthetic fragrances used in various laundry products and air fresheners emit toxic chemicals that are not good for your lungs.
Practice Deep Breathing Exercises
Deep breathing exercises are often suggested for any lung problem or disorder. Therefore lack of oxygen supply can make you more prone to lung problems or even heart diseases. Practicing regular deep breathing exercises can help to strengthen your lungs as well as clear out toxins that may have built up in the organs.
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Eat the Right Food
You have to always make sure that your diet includes the right mixture of nutrients like antioxidants, protein, folate, and complex carbohydrates. These nutrients are essential for healthy lung functions and help you to cleanse your lungs of harmful toxins
If possible also, cut down on foods that contain trans-fat and saturated fat.
Exercise Regularly
Physical exercises are the best way to boost your overall health. Exercise helps in boosting the lung capacity, which in turn keeps your heart and muscles well supplied with oxygen.
Therefore, Shortness of breath, pain when breathing, dizziness with change inactivity, and a persistent cough are some symptoms of lung problems. Always consult a doctor if you experience these symptoms.
