Living with a chronic respiratory conditions like Asthma or COPD can be extremely challenging, but there are ways to safely improve your lung health and manage your symptoms. Taking steps to protect your lungs is crucial for managing your condition and improving your overall quality of life. In this blog post, we will explore some strategies for protecting your lungs and improving your lung health, based on recommendations from the American Lung Association and other medical associations. 

Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke 

Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for respiratory conditions like asthma, and secondhand smoke can be just as harmful. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your lung health. If you live with someone who smokes, encourage them to quit, and avoid spending time in areas where smoking is allowed. 

Reduce exposure to air pollution 

Air pollution can be a major trigger for asthma symptoms, so it's important to take steps to reduce your exposure. Avoid outdoor activities during times when air pollution levels are high and consider using an air purifier in your home to filter out pollutants. Our asthma management app, AsthmaGo™, has the ability to monitor the air quality index and notify users when there are unsafe levels of air pollution. You can download AsthmaGo™ through the Google Play store or Apple today! 

Practice good hygiene 

Respiratory infections can worsen asthma symptoms, so it's important to practice good hygiene to reduce your risk of getting sick. Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating and after being in public places. Avoid touching your face and cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. 

Manage stress 

Stress can be a trigger for asthma symptoms, so finding ways to manage stress is important for protecting your lung health. Consider relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga, and take time to engage in activities you enjoy. 

Exercise regularly 

Regular exercise is important for supporting lung health, and you can find more information for staying active with asthma or other respiratory conditions on our blog. Talk to your doctor about the right exercise options for you and remember to start slowly to avoid triggering symptoms. Consider activities like walking, swimming, or yoga that can help strengthen your respiratory muscles. 

Practice deep breathing 

Deep breathing exercises can help improve lung capacity and reduce stress. One simple exercise is to inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth, focusing on making the exhale longer than the inhale. Spirometers are a simple and effective tool to regularly measure lung capacity. Digital spirometers often have built-in data logs, that can help you track your lung capacity over time. 

Protecting your lung health is crucial for managing chronic respiratory conditions like asthma and improving overall lung health. Talk to your doctor about which strategies are right for you and how you can best incorporate them into your daily routine to take control of your lung health!  

Still have questions? Feel free to contact us at info@cmihealth.com or call us at 888-985-1125 (ext. 1)