As we age, maintaining lung health becomes essential. Therefore, it is necessary to take proactive measures to support lung function and prevent the risk of respiratory diseases.
Poor lung health can be a serious problem for many people as it increases the risk of various health complications. Maintaining lung health becomes crucial as we age. There is a significant rise in lung diseases among older people in India and across the world. The lungs play a vital role in removing carbon dioxide while also providing an adequate amount of oxygen for the body to function properly. Several factors can contribute to deteriorating lung health, such as excessive smoking, air pollution, frequent respiratory infections, and chronic lung diseases. Over time, this can negatively damage the tissues present in the lungs. Medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease in older people can worsen lung problems.
Warning signs of poor lung health in older people
These symptoms can manifest in a variety of ways. Ignoring them can make your condition worse. This can include symptoms such as persistent cough, shortness of breath when performing daily activities, wheezing, fatigue, and a feeling of tightness in the chest. These signs can be an indication of multiple underlying health problems that require immediate medical attention. Recognizing these symptoms early can help improve your quality of life.
Tips to protect lung health
Dr Samir Garde, Director, Department of Pulmonology and Lung Transplantation, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, spoke to India.com and shared five essential ways to help senior citizens protect their lungs and breathe better.
- Quit smoking: Excessive smoking can be the leading cause of lung problems in older people. This can further lead to lung problems such as bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer. The effect of smoking is similar to that of people who smoke secondhand. One of the best things you can do to keep your lungs healthy is to quit smoking. This can significantly reduce the risk of various respiratory problems and the development of chronic lung diseases.
- Keep indoor air clean: Air quality plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal lung health. If you suffer from lung diseases like asthma or respiratory problems, keeping indoor air clean becomes essential. Air purifiers can be used that help filter out pollutants and allergens present indoors. Regular cleaning and dusting can be helpful in keeping the environment clean.
- Eat a healthy diet: Make sure you eat healthy, balanced meals that support lung health. Foods enriched with essential nutrients can help the body fight infections effectively while also supporting healthy lung function. Encourage older people to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains and lentils.
- Stay active: Regular exercise is essential for maintaining overall health, especially lung health. Being physically active can help improve lung capacity and endurance, strengthen respiratory muscles, and boost your immune system. This can include activities like walking, swimming, Zumba, running, cycling, and yoga.
- Get vaccinated: Respiratory infections like flu and pneumonia can be life-threatening for older adults, especially those with lung health problems. Make sure older adults in your household get vaccinated regularly.
