The lungs are part of the breathing process, ensuring the arrival of atmospheric oxygen to the blood and tissues. This is a vital function, which also allows the carbon dioxide produced in the organs to be expelled, due to the oxidation of the cells. This is how we must avoid risk factors to take care of life.
Environmental pollution, smoking and exposure to occupational risks are the main triggers of lung disease. However, genetics, gender, age, allergens and respiratory infections also play a determining role in this type of pathology.
Controlling risk factors is part of the solution
Bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia and COPD are the best known lung conditions. However, pulmonary edema, embolism and cancer are more serious affectations, which have been gaining ground in recent years. Becoming a problem of greater scope, which incapacitates and can even cause death.1
The World Health Organization, WHO, points out that cigarettes cause lung cancer and claim many lives around the world. But, likewise, exposure to asbestos, radon, radioactive substances or chemical agents, which are present in the workplace or home. They are forming carcinogenic patterns that gradually degenerate the body.2
Shortness of breath, persistent dry cough, chronic fatigue, muscle and joint pain, general malaise, and weight loss without seeking it. In addition, wheezing and widening of the fingertips of both feet and hands are visible signs of lung problems. Indicating that it is necessary to seek medical guidance, to carry out a treatment that is adjusted to the needs of each patient.
Health professionals, before determining the type of medication or technique to alleviate the symptoms of any lung condition, will be guided by diagnostic tests. Including radiography, tomography, resonance, scintigraphy, sputum sample, bronchoscopy or biopsy, if necessary.3
The treatment for the different pulmonary pathologies will depend on the severity of the clinical picture. This is how nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed, oral pain relievers. Antibiotics and corticosteroids, in the least bothersome cases. Since, when the disease is more advanced, oxygen, radiation therapy or surgery may need to be given.
Likewise, doctors recommend taking preventive measures that take care of the lungs and life. Therefore, do moderate but constant physical activity, stop using cigarettes and avoid consuming toxic substances such as alcohol. At the same time, fruits, vegetables and water should be included in the daily diet, seeking to maintain a healthy weight. They become recommendations that are worth following.
Currently, the care of the lungs and our respiratory system has taken on great relevance, thanks to the presence of Covid in society. For this reason, there is an emphasis on aerobic exercise, taking deep breaths and reducing exposure to pollutants. In such a way, that we can strengthen each of the organs, take care of health and life.
References:
- Pineda-Higuita SE, Ramos-Melchor VdJ, Cadavid-Carmona D. Quality of life in patients with Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Rev. Univ. Salud. [internet] 2016 [consultado 7 abril 2021]; 18 (3): 482-493. Available in:
http://www.scielo.org.co/pdf/reus/v18n3/v18n3a08.pdf.
- Official website World Health Organization. Cancer. 2021.Available at:
https://www.who.int/es/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer.
- American Cancer Society. Lung cancer tests. Available in: https://www.cancer.org/es/cancer/lung-cancer/deteccion-diagnostico-clasificacion-por-stapas/como-se-diagnostica.html.