Lung Health Day

Today is set aside as Lung Health Day.  

You and I take breathing for granted for the most part.  It is a very natural part of our body functioning and we don’t often think much about it.  It just happens.

As with all other parts of your body, your lungs age as well.  There are however some steps you can take that will help keep your lungs as healthy as possible over the years.

1. Don’t smoke or stop smoking.  This is really a well known benefit so we don’t need to linger on this one.
2. Start exercising.  By walking or doing aerobic exercises you increase your lung span.  Get and keep moving.
3. Avoid exposure to pollutants.  We all try to do this but some ideas include avoiding secondhand smoke, using natural cleaners and dusting and vacuuming regularly.
4. Watch out for infections.  Wash your hands regularly, drink lots of water and add fruits and vegetables to your diet.
5. Try taking time to breathe deeply through your nose and out through your mouth.  We normally take shallow breaths so deeper breaths can help expand your lungs.

Many of the steps listed to help your lungs are common ways to help your body overall as well.  We often speak of getting enough exercise and eating more fruits and vegetables.  That’s good news really. 

Private Home Health Care works with people who have COPD, a chronic obstruction to the lungs and asthma.  Breathing can be very difficult so any changes you can make to help your lungs is important.