Do you want to keep your lungs as healthy as possible? While it’s easy to take lung health for granted, many issues can impact your lung health and respiratory system. Even if you are a young adult who is overall very healthy, various infections can affect your lungs, and it’s easy to take your lung health for granted until you have difficulties breathing or doing daily tasks.
While it’s impossible to deter lung diseases completely, you can do many things to increase your chances of having healthy lungs for as long as possible.
Review the tips below for valuable information on how to have healthier lungs.
Tip 1: Don’t Smoke
While you probably already know that smoking is awful for your lungs, it’s hard to overstate how dangerous it is for your lung health. Smoking cigarettes is the leading cause of lung cancer, and most lung cancer deaths are connected to smoking.
The best way to protect your lungs from lung cancer is never to smoke. If you are currently smoking, seek resources that can help you quit. The sooner you stop smoking, the better it will be for your lungs and overall health.
Tip 2: Avoid Exposure to Asbestos and Radon
Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your lungs, but there are some other substances you’ll want to avoid, too. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, while asbestos is the leading cause of mesothelioma.
However, while smoking is something you can often choose to avoid, limiting your exposure to asbestos and radon is much more challenging. In particular, radon is a gas that occurs in nature. Because it’s impossible to see, smell, or hear, you need to regularly test your home’s radon levels to ensure you are safe.
Asbestos is a material often used in construction, so you’re more likely to be exposed if you work in certain professions. Learn more about risk factors for asbestos and how to keep yourself safe in this mesothelioma guide.
Tip 3: Get Regular Exercise
While it might be frustrating that exercise is often recommended for keeping your body healthy, it’s comforting to know that getting enough physical activity can help so many aspects of your health.
To keep your lungs and heart healthy, you should balance cardio, strength training, and other kinds of exercise. Before you begin a new exercise routine, please consult your healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe to do so.
Tip 4: Lessen Air Pollution Inside Your Home
While you might not have control over outdoor pollutants where you live, you can take many steps to reduce indoor air pollution. Keep your living spaces well-ventilated and regularly clean them to remove things like dust, mold, and allergens. You can also throw out products that emit strong fumes.
Tip 5: Stay Up-To-Date on Vaccinations
You might be unable to avoid infections and viruses altogether, but you can reduce your risk. It’s important to get vaccinations, such as the yearly flu immunization and the COVID-19 vaccine.
Of course, you should always consult your physician to see what vaccinations are needed and if you have other risk factors.
Tip 6: Stay at a Healthy Weight
While a healthy weight is slightly different for each person, remaining at a good weight for you can benefit your lung health. Problems with weight can increase your risk of sleep apnea, and it’s good to keep your lungs healthier by eating a well-rounded diet.
By following these tips and your doctor’s direction, you can keep your lungs and respiratory system healthier.
Featured Photo by Fitsum Admasu on Unsplash