Your lungs allow your body to breath oxygen in and carbon dioxide out. Injury, illness, disease or other factors may result in your lungs not working properly causing difficulty breathing. You can keep your lungs healthy and breathe easier by taking a these five steps:
1. Quit Smoking and Avoid Tobacco Use
Smoking is the leading cause of lung disease and can severely impact your respiratory health. You don’t have to quit smoking/vaping alone. Many resources are available, including counseling, nicotine replacement therapies, and support groups. For more information visit: Your Call, Your Quit | Illinois Tobacco Quitline
2. Understand the Dangers of Secondhand Smoke
Secondhand smoke poses serious health risks, especially for children, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Ensure that your home and car are smoke-free environments. Learn more at: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/secondhand-smoke/index.html
3. Monitor Air Quality
Air pollution can significantly affect lung health. Stay informed about local air quality levels, especially during high-pollution days at https://www.airnow.gov/ Limit outdoor activities when air quality is poor, and consider using air purifiers indoors to reduce indoor pollutants.
4. Test for Radon
Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can accumulate in homes, especially those with basements. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. Testing is the only way to know if there are high levels of radon gas in your home. Kits are available for purchase at a at WCHD.If radon gas levels are high, take action to reduce radon exposure, such as by having a radon mitigation system installed in your home to disperse the radon gas. Click here for more on radon.
5. Vaccinate against Respiratory Illnesses
Vaccine can help protect against respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID-19, and pneumonia. Staying up-to-date with recommended vaccines can reduce the risk of severe respiratory infections and complications. Visit the Winnebago County Health Department’s page on respiratory illnesses for more information on available vaccines and how they help safeguard your lung health.
