The pollutant particles in the air cause lung diseases such as asthma, COPD, and lung cancer. Every year, millions of people worldwide are affected by these conditions.

Prioritizing lung health aids in reducing the risk of developing respiratory issues. Therefore, this year 2024, World Lung Day is focusing on “Clean Air and Healthy Lungs for All”, highlighting the importance of reducing air pollution and promoting respiratory health.

How Does Pollution Affect Lung Health?

Air pollution consists of harmful substances such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) that can harm the lungs and lead to serious respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In addition, there are two common types of air pollutants in the air that are harmful to people even if they do not have lung disease.

• Ground-level ozone smog (Formed by a chemical reaction)

• Fine particulate matter (By-product of combustion)

Both types of pollutants can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause serious health issues. Here are some effective ways that help individuals reduce exposure to air pollutants:

Quit Smoking:

People who smoke are at risk of respiratory problems like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. According to one study from 2019 shows that 384 million people suffer from COPD and 3 million dies from it each year. Quitting smoking can reduce the chance of COPD and other respiratory problems. In addition, quitting smoking is not only beneficial for one it is also helpful for vulnerable individuals. If you struggle to quit smoking consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Practice Good Hygiene:

Wash your hands frequently and for a minimum of 20 seconds to prevent infections. Wearing a mask and maintaining social distance can help prevent the spread of airborne infections.

Try Breathing Exercise:

Breathing exercise is one of the unavoidable if you want to improve your respiratory health. Studies show that practicing breathing exercises regularly for 15 – 20 minutes can help you cope with breathing difficulties when they arise.

Breathing exercises such as deep breathing, pursed lip breathing, and belly breathing are simple and easy to do.

Avoid Exposure to Air Pollutants:

The quality of air significantly influences lung health. Sometimes, the air we breathe, whether inside or outside, can be harmful to our health. So, it is better to avoid spending long hours in the outside. Also, individuals can control indoor pollutants by restricting their exposure to fuel-burning appliances, such as water heaters, furnaces, and cooking stoves, second-hand smoke.

Get Vaccine:

Getting a vaccine is the best defence against contagious respiratory illnesses like the flu, COVID-19, pneumococcal pneumonia, and RSV. People with lung problems should prioritize getting a vaccine since it can help them avoid major illnesses.

In conclusion, people who are vulnerable to respiratory conditions such as children, and elderly people are encouraged to take precautions against air pollutants to improve their respiratory health and overall well-being. Identifying respiratory health issues earlier can help to prevent serious complications. On this World Lung Day, let us use this as an opportunity to raise awareness of the prevalence of illnesses including tuberculosis, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and Asthma. In addition, consult a healthcare provider regularly for a check-up helps prevent illness.

• Viruses: Respiratory viruses like influenza, rhinovirus (common cold), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and coronavirus (including COVID-19) are common culprits behind lung infections.
• Bacteria: Bacteria can lead to various infections, including pneumonia and bronchitis. Some common bacteria that can cause lung infections are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
• Fungi: Fungal lung infections are not as common, but they can still be a serious health concern, particularly for people with weakened immune systems. Some examples are aspergillosis and histoplasmosis.
• Environmental Factors: The presence of environmental pollutants, allergens, fumes, and other irritants can hurt lung health and make individuals more prone to lung infections.
• Individuals with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis may be more vulnerable to frequent lung infections.

Lung Infections Symptoms

The human body frequently offers subtle indications when something is wrong, and lung infections are no different. Identifying these symptoms at an early stage can result in timely treatment and improved results. These are a few signs that you should be aware of:

• A cough that lasts longer than the typical duration of a cold or flu may suggest an underlying respiratory problem.
• Experiencing shortness of breath can be concerning, especially if it occurs with minimal exertion. It may indicate the presence of a lung infection.
• Experiencing discomfort or tightness in the chest, particularly when taking deep breaths or coughing, could be a sign of a lung infection.
• When the body's immune system is fighting off lung infection, it can cause an increase in body temperature along with chills.
• Feeling unusually tired or lacking energy, even after enough sleep, can be a sign of the body battling off an infection.
• Changes in the color, consistency, or concentration of phlegm when coughing can be indicative of an underlying respiratory infection.

Lung Infection Types

• Pneumonia
• Bronchitis
• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Influenza (Flu)
• Bronchiolitis
• Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Lung Infections

Lung Infection Treatments

• Antibiotics
• Antiviral Medications
• Antifungal Medications
• Bronchodilators
• Corticosteroids
• Oxygen Therapy
• Supportive Care

Who Treats Lung Infection?

Pulmonologist!

A pulmonologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the lungs and the entire respiratory system. If you have any issues with your lungs as well as your respiratory system, a pulmonologist is the specialist you should consult. They are experts in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the respiratory system, from the windpipe to the lungs. If you are facing any symptoms related to lung infections, you can connect with a pulmonologist to diagnose it immediately and get it treated.

Lung Infection Precautions

• Remember to practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently, especially during cold and flu seasons. This simple action can help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses.
• Get Vaccinated: Immunizations for influenza (flu) and pneumococcal bacteria can significantly reduce the chances of contracting serious lung infections.
• Steer clear of Tobacco Smoke: Smoking and being around second-hand smoke can harm the lungs and make you more vulnerable to lung infections.
• Stay Active: Engaging in regular physical activity can help strengthen your respiratory muscles and enhance lung function, which in turn can lower the chances of developing lung infections.
• Take Care of Your Well-being: It is crucial to prioritize your health by consuming a well-balanced diet, staying hydrated, and ensuring you get enough rest. These practices are vital for supporting your immune system and maintaining respiratory health.

Lung infections can pose a significant threat to our health, but by providing ourselves with knowledge and taking preventive actions, we can strengthen our immune system against these respiratory threats. By being more cautious, embracing healthy practices, and promptly seeking medical attention, when necessary, we can successfully navigate the challenges posed by lung infections with determination and strength.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/symptoms-of-lung-infection#causes

https://www.verywellhealth.com/lung-infection-5181440 

• Breathing difficulties
• Wheezing
• Tightness in the chest
• A chronic cough
• Frequent lung infections
• Lack of energy
• Weight loss
  
• Swelling in the ankles, feet, or leg
  

Complications

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe and has been linked to heart disease, lung cancer, hypertension in the pulmonary arteries, and even depression.

When should I consult a doctor?

Find immediate medical attention if you find that you are unable to take a breath, if you see that your lips or the beds of your fingernails have turned dark blue (cyanosis), if your heartbeat is fast, or if you feel hazy and have struggles concentrating.

Diagnosis
Pulmonologists are the best choice to diagnose COPD. The diagnosis process starts with:

Past medical report

By inquiring about habits such as smoking as well as their lifestyle (i.e., if you are exposed to secondhand smoke, air pollution, dust, and pollutants daily).

In addition, the pulmonologist may recommend tests like:

• Spirometry – Examine your lung performance
• Chest x-ray
  
• Arterial blood gas test – Measures the oxygen level in the blood
  
• Computed Tomography (CT) of lung

Treatment for COPD

The Pulmonologist prescribes bronchodilators based on the severity of the condition, which should be taken using inhalers. Bronchodilators, antibiotics, inhaled steroids, and oral steroids are all types of medication that can be used to treat respiratory conditions. Bronchodilators work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, while antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. Inhaled and oral steroids can help reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe. In case your condition is extremely severe, your doctor may recommend oxygen therapy and a pulmonary rehabilitation programme. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary, and this may involve a lung transplant.

COPD is a disease that is commonly associated with identifiable risk factors and established preventive measures. In addition, there exist techniques that can impede the advancement of the illness. The leading cause of COPD is cigarette smoking. Reducing or quitting smoking is considered the most efficient approach to prevent COPD, particularly if you are still a smoker.

Here are three methods you can take to prevent COPD-related complications:

• To reduce your risk of heart disease and lung cancer, stop smoking.

• Get vaccinated annually against influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia to reduce your risk or prevent certain infections.

• Consult a doctor if you feel helpless or think that you may be experiencing depression. 

• When you have trouble breathing while carrying out mild routine activities than before.
• Breathlessness accompanied by swelling of legs and foot, which is indicative of pulmonary Edema.
• Chronic uncontrolled asthma with unidentifiable triggers.
• Persistent coughing does not seem to get better even after consulting a general physician. Long-term persistent cough can arise due to respiratory infections or even due to cancer. 
• Long-term smokers.
• Tightness in chest.
• Wheezing. 
  
• Frequent bouts of cold. 

What can be expected during the visits to a pulmonologist clinic? 

• Usually following tests are carried out by pulmonologists to diagnose the problem: 
• Blood tests
• Bronchoscopy - A tube with a camera at the tip passed inside to have a closer look at lung and airways
• X-Rays 
• CT scan
• Spirometry - The test that measures the breath inhaled and exhaled. 

The above-mentioned symptoms are the first signs indicative of issues concerned with the respiratory tract, such as lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, etc...What can start off as a minor cold can turn into a nagging infection with persistent cough and lead to a life-threatening situation.

As the saying goes “Every breath, every minute is a gift from our lungs,” which very well explains how important it is to have a healthy lung which will determine the overall health. The most common underlying reasons for lung dysfunction include smoking, genetics, and infection. Lungs are a complex apparatus, that is continuously expanding to accommodate oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. Therefore, a lung disease can pave the way to major health issues in the overall system.

Hence, it is advised, not to neglect any early warning signs indicative of lung disease, and to seek pulmonologists’ help at the earliest before it turns into a life-threatening situation.