As COVID cases rise once again, find out how to keep the lungs healthy

The surge in COVID-19 cases has once again put the spotlight on lungs and how to keep them healthy in the long run.

COVID-19, being a respiratory disease, affects people with existing lung conditions severely and can have very serious effects. The widespread toll it took on people was very visible during the pandemic that lasted for close to two years.

With coronavirus cases in the country rising once again, let’s find out on World Health Day - which is celebrated on April 7 every year - what the function of the lungs are and how they can be kept healthy.

The lungs are extremely vital organs who perform the role of exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide that helps the circulatory system to carry the former to every major organ and tissue in the body. When asked about how important they are for sustaining life, Dr. Jugendra Singh, who is a senior consultant of respiratory medicine at Medanta Lucknow said, “They help extract oxygen from the air we breathe and transfer it into the bloodstream, and remove carbon dioxide from the bloodstream and release it into the air we exhale.”

The lungs are made up of “millions of tiny air sacs called alveoli.” Their goal is to exchange gases between the bloodstream and the air we breathe in. Besides these, the lungs also regulate the body’s pH balance and the immune defense by producing mucus and also clearing foreign particles and toxins.

Since the COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus that affects the lungs, they represent a very real threat to the organs. “The virus enters the body through the nose and mouth and then travels down to the lungs, where it can cause inflammation, damage the alveoli, and impair oxygen exchange. In severe cases, Covid-19 can also lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a life-threatening condition that requires mechanical ventilation,” Dr Singh noted.

There are several things that can help improve the immunity of the lungs. These often involve lifestyle changes.

Giving up smoking:

This one is a no brainer. Everyone is aware how smoking has an adverse impact on the lungs and smoking only increases the chances of developing a respiratory disease.

Regular exercising:

Exercising regularly can be very beneficial for the lungs. Doing cardio especially, improves the capacity of the lungs and strengthens it against respiratory illnesses. Brisk walking, running, swimming, cycling are all great exercises for the lungs.

Getting proper sleep everyday:

Getting enough sleep every single night is extremely important for the body’s overall health and well-being. In order to better aid the immune system, regular sleep of seven to nine hours every night is recommended to every adult.

Avoiding air pollution:

Air pollution has a direct and negative effect on the lungs and they can increase the chances of respiratory illnesses. The air pollution in most major cities in India is bad enough and as such, it is recommended to wear a mask while going out. People can also consider getting an air filtration system for the home.

Having a balanced diet:

It is very important to consume both macro and micronutrients in order to make sure the body is running well. Foods such as blueberries, leafy vegetables, fishes, nuts, and seeds contain nutrients that boost the immunity of the lungs.

“Fatty fish, eggs, and fortified dairy products all contain vitamin D, which can promote immune system health and lower the chance of respiratory infections. Salmon and hazelnuts are two foods high in omega-3 fatty acids that may also help lessen lung inflammation. Additionally, because they can worsen inflammation and affect lung function, processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive alcohol intake should be avoided,” added Dr Joshi.