Index
- What can be done to prevent respiratory diseases?
- How do you know if you're having trouble breathing?
- What are the most common respiratory diseases?
- How to prevent respiratory damage?
What can be done to prevent respiratory diseases?
The lungs are among the most fragile and sensitive organs of the body. That's why lung diseases and respiratory illnesses are among the most common health problems. Indeed, they can affect both children and adults. In addition to hereditary factors, certain causes and risk factors for respiratory diseases can be avoided. How can this be done? The following paragraphs explain the best habits to have in order to prevent respiratory diseases.
How do you know if you're having trouble breathing?
First of all, it is important to know that a breathing problem is a malfunction of the respiratory system. This dysfunction can be infectious, hereditary or caused by the environment in which the person concerned lives (such as an allergic reaction). In addition, various habits, such as smoking, can also cause this type of disorder.
To find out if you have this type of health problem, discover the main symptoms of a respiratory pathology below:
- Difficult, even painful breathing
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath on exertion, and sometimes even at rest
- Chest pain that causes breathing difficulties
- A frequent cough that may be accompanied by spitting in some cases
When the respiratory pathology is severe, the person's skin may turn bluish. This is caused by the very low level of oxygen in the blood. This change in skin colour is called cyanosis. At this stage of the disease, the patient's risk of death is very high.
What are the most common respiratory diseases?
Diseases affecting the respiratory system are numerous. They vary in severity and can affect anyone. Many of them are perfectly treatable. Among the most common respiratory diseases, you have:
- Allergy - also called hypersensitivity, allergy is an abnormality in the immune system's reaction to harmless allergens. It can occur in various parts of the body such as the skin, digestive system or respiratory tract. In the latter case, the allergy presents itself by wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing. A dry cough may also occur. These different symptoms occur episodically.
- Asthma - this is a disease presented by an inflammation of the airways. The bronchioles, bronchioles and small bronchial tubes are most affected by inflammation. The symptoms of asthma are: difficulty breathing, wheezing, shortness of breath and a tightness in the chest. Asthma is a chronic disease that manifests itself through periods of attacks. However, some people with asthma may experience permanent breathing discomfort.
- Acute bronchitis - this respiratory condition is characterized by inflammation of the bronchi. Note that the bronchial tubes are the ducts that carry inhaled air to the lungs. Acute bronchitis is characterized by difficulty breathing and is often accompanied by coughing. It is most common in the fall or winter.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) - this is the most dangerous respiratory disorder on this list. Indeed, COPD is very serious and is However, the symptoms of this disease do not begin until you are in your fifties. It is characterized by shortness of breath and a frequent wet cough. People with COPD also cough up whitish mucus when they cough. Sometimes the cough can cause vomiting and dizziness. In its advanced stage, the disease is accompanied by shortness of breath, swollen legs and skin that turns blue.
How to prevent respiratory damage?
There are many factors that cause respiratory disorders. And when they are not genetic in origin, they are entirely preventable. Here are some precautions to take to prevent respiratory diseases:
- Exercise - It's no secret that physical activity is a great health ally. In addition to exercising your muscles, sport also exercises your lungs to breathe better and helps you maintain your breath.
- Ventilate your home - sometimes indoor air pollution can also cause breathing problems. To prevent these problems, it's a good idea to air your home for at least 10 minutes a day, even during the cold season. Ventilation renews the air in your home while reducing the concentration of pollutants that may be found there.
- Quit smoking - it is well known that smoking damages the lungs and promotes the development of various respiratory diseases. The harmful substances in cigarettes can cause cancer.
- Wash your hands - it is necessary to wash your hands several times a day in order to eliminate all germs that can cause many respiratory diseases.
- Cover your mouth when you cough - it's one of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs. When you cough, make sure you cover your mouth and don't hesitate to use a tissue or, if you don't, use your elbow. Also, during cold season, avoid going to crowded places.
- Don't forget to get vaccinated - after all, the vaccine remains one of the most effective ways to prevent respiratory diseases. In fact, it is more than recommended for people aged 65 and over.
