As we celebrate national lung month, it is important that we do not take our lungs for granted. Our lungs help us breathe and for the most part, keep us alive and well.

Our body has a defense system that is designed to protect our lungs and keep germs at bay. Yet, there are some important things you can do to reduce the chance of contracting lung disease. Here are some ways to keep your lungs healthy:

1. Do not smoke

Smoking destroys our lung tissue and causes our lungs to swell. Cigarette smoke can narrow the air passages and make breathing more difficult.

2. Avoid second hand smoke

Second hand smoke, also known as passive smoking, can also cause lung related illnesses. Second hand smoke, chemicals in our home and workplace can cause or worsen lung disease.

3. Protect yourself from air pollutants

Protect yourself from dangerous carcinogens in the air. Wear a face mask if you are in an environment with high amounts of dust or chemical fumes.

4. Exercise

The easiest way to open up your airways is through exercise. Jogging or walking can improve your health, wellness, and lung capacity.

According to cancer.org, smoking is the main cause of lung cancer, there are other factors also involved. When you have a lung cancer in your family history, there is an increased chance that you may develop it too.

Regular check-ups can help avoid infections, even though you feel fine. This is especially true of lung disease, which sometimes goes undetected until it is serious.

It is important that we protect our lungs by following the steps above and of course, undergoing regular check-ups. Your healthcare provider will listen to your breathing and make sure that you are doing well.

Reference:Lung cancer. (2020, April 17). Retrieved August 20, 2020, from

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lung-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20374620

Lung Cancer Causes: Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers. (n.d.). Retrieved August 20, 2020, from

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/lung-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/what-causes.html