Maintaining A Healthy Respiratory System

Maintaining A Healthy Respiratory System

Respiratory tract can easily get infected, especially when the air we breathe everyday is within low quality index range and has high count of contaminants. The most common early symptom to know when you have a respiratory disorder is when you cough. Do not take any condition that affects the air passage to and from the lungs lightly. It is advisable to immediately see a doctor at the onset of respiratory symptoms.

Coughs Coughs caused by respiratory tract infections usually do not last long. They are considered acute when they are less than three weeks. From three to eight weeks they are considered subacute. They are usually due to the irritation of cough receptors after an infection.

Coughing is the body’s natural physiological defence to clear the micro-organisms, including their secretions, and the foreign particles that can be trapped in the airways. It works subconsciously, unless purposely induced. There are two types of cough receptors forming the upper lining of the air passageways (the main tube leading from the nose and throat to the lungs): The irritant receptors – can be triggered by toxic fumes and liquids; The Mechanical receptors – triggered by physical things such as touch (e.g. Secretions from bacteria and viruses), displacement (e.g. When water enters the air passage) or stretch (e.g. Sudden and deep intake of air).

Postnasal drainage is now thought to be the most common cause of chronic cough. The receptors are being kept stimulated as a result of allergic rhinitis or other forms of rhinitis.

Bronchitis Symptoms normally characterised by a relentless cough, difficulty in breathing, and the production of thick mucus, or phlegm – due to the inflammation of the bronchi. Chronic bronchitis is an extremely serious problem that develops when the bronchial tubes are irritated over a long period of time. Cigarette smoking is by far the most common cause.

Emphysema Develop as a consequence of smoking or chronic bronchitis. Also known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, as it worsens, the air sacs, or alveoli, lose their elasticity and fill with stale air, leading to an increase of shortness of breath.

Pneumonia General symptoms include a cough with a lot of sputum, fever, chills, and chest pain. Can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, and exposure of lung tissue to toxic substances.


Keeping The System Healthy

People with good health are more likely able to fight off the underlying causes of respiratory disorders.

Fluids Take adequate amount of fluids during any respiratory infection because it helps to thin mucus and make breathing easier. Doctors recommend six to eight glasses of non-alcoholic fluids a day.

Antioxidants Help protect lung tissue from the cellular damage caused by free radicals.

Zinc Important for boosting immunity, especially against upper respiratory infections. Found in many food including lean meat, yogurt, and whole-grain products.


Eating Habits

Avoid consuming too much food at one time for people with emphysema, since it can increase the volume in the stomach and crowd the already distended lungs. Cut down on fatty foods. Anything that can cause gas and bloating should be avoided. Have small servings and eat slowly.


Lifestyle Habits

Cut down or avoid smoking altogether, even secondhand smoke, because smoking is by far the leading cause of chronic respiratory disorders, including lung cancer. Abstain from all alcoholic beverages because alcohol lowers immunity.


Lung Health is Improved with a Diet Rich in Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits high in vitamin C are associated with improved lung function in a population of adults and children, studies done over 10 to 15 years shown.