As we age, maintaining lung health becomes essential. Hence, taking proactive steps is necessary to support lung function and prevent the risk of respiratory diseases.
Poor lung health can be a serious concern for many as it increases the risk of several health complications. It becomes crucial to maintain your lung health as you gradually age. There’s a significant rise in lung diseases amongst elderly people in India and all over the world. Lungs play a vital role in removing carbon dioxide while delivering an adequate amount of oxygen for the body to function properly. Several factors can contribute to deteriorating lung health. This can include factors like excessive smoking, air pollution, frequent contracting respiratory infections, and chronic lung conditions. Over time this can negatively damage the tissues present in the lungs. Medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, and heart disease in elder people can worsen lung problems.
Warning signs of poor lung health in elders
These symptoms can manifest in various ways. Overlooking these symptoms can worsen your condition. This can include symptoms like persistent cough, shortness of breath while performing daily activities, wheezing sound when breathing, fatigue, and feelings of chest tightness. These signs can be an indication of multiple underlying health issues that require immediate medical attention. Recognizing these symptoms early can help improve the quality of life.
Tips to protect lung health
Dr Samir Garde, Director of Dept of Pulmonology and Lung Transplant, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel spoke to India.com and shared 5 essential ways to help seniors protect their lungs and breathe easier
- Quit smoking: Excessive smoking can be the primary cause of lung problems in elders. This can further lead to lung problems like bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer. The effect of smoking is similar to people who indulge in passive smoking. One of the best things you could do to keep your lungs healthy is to quit smoking. This can significantly reduce the risk of several respiratory problems and the development of chronic lung diseases.
- Keep indoor air clean: Quality of air plays a crucial role in maintaining the optimal health of your lungs. If you are someone who has lung diseases like asthma or respiratory problems then keeping indoor air clean becomes essential. One can use air purifiers that help filter pollutants and allergens present indoors. Regularly cleaning and dusting can be helpful to keep the environment clean.
- Eat a healthy diet: Ensure that you eat healthy and well-balanced meals that support your lung health. Foods that are enriched with the goodness of essential nutrients can help the body to effectively fight infections while promoting the smooth functioning of the lungs. Encourage the elderly to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and lentils.
- Stay active: Exercising regularly is crucial to maintain overall health, especially the lungs. Engaging in physical activities can help improve stamina, and the capacity of the lungs, strengthen your respiratory muscles, and boost the immune system. This can include activities like walking, swimming, Zumba, running, cycling, and yoga.
- Get Vaccinated: Respiratory infections such as flu and pneumonia can be life-threatening for older adults, especially those with poor lung health. Make sure that elders at your home are vaccinated time-to-time.
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