7 Avoidable Habits That Cause Fatal Respiratory Disorders

drwale

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The respiratory system plays a critical role in the proper functioning of the body. It comprises the nose externally, trachea (or windpipe), bronchi as well as a branching network of bronchioles which open into the alveoli (air sacs) within the lung tissue. This system is involved in the exchange of gases, notably oxygen and carbon dioxide at the level of the alveoli. Needless to mention that oxygen which we breathe in is essential for the survival of body tissues which in turn generate carbon dioxide as a by-product of metabolism that must be expelled from the body through the lungs.

However, any disturbance to this seemingly simple process of gaseous exchange due to disorders of the respiratory system may prove fatal. This article will focus on some bad habits that can predispose one to such fatal yet avoidable respiratory conditions like tuberculosis, asthma, emphysema, pneumonia and lung cancers, just to mention a few.

1. Smoking
Smoking (first-hand or second-hand) damages every system in the body and the respiratory system is no exemption. First, it disrupts the function of the mucociliary system which naturally clears harmful substances from the airways thereby preventing them from gaining entrance into the lungs. Apart from that, studies have revealed that cigarette contains no less than 4000 harmful substances which are toxic to the lungs. Little wonder smokers are more likely to suffer from dreaded lung diseases like lung cancer, tuberculosis and emphysema. Furthermore, it is estimated that smoking lessens the lung capacity by up to 60%. If there is one habit you need to drop urgently, it is smoking because it kills faster than you think.

2. Excessive Alcohol Intake
While modest consumption of alcohol may be beneficial especially for the heart, excessive intake weakens the natural defense mechanisms of the body including antibodies that fend off infectious organisms. Hence, heavy drinkers are at a higher risk of chest infections like tuberculosis and pneumonia. Also, excessive alcohol intake leaves you dehydrated and this adversely affects the functioning of your lungs.

3. Inhaling Mineral Dusts
Unfortunately, certain kinds of jobs expose their workers to injurious dust like asbestos and coal if necessary precautions are not taken such as the use of face masks to cover the nose. Some of such occupations include plumbers, bricklayers, cement factory workers and coal miners. Inhaling such dust for several years leads to occupational lung diseases (pneumoconioses) that can set the stage for bronchogenic carcinoma (lung cancer) in the future. For instance, some studies have shown that workers who have been exposed to asbestos over time have a six-fold risk of suffering from lung cancers.

4. Exposure to air pollution
Prolonged exposure to air pollution, whether indoor or outdoor is another dangerous factor that leads to lung diseases. For instance, the use of cooking stoves or fire woods in poorly ventilated environments increases the risk of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Furthermore, a study conducted in Southern California discovered that heavy pollution can reduce lung function in exposed individuals by up to 20% while urban smog has been linked to fatal lung disorders like lung cancers, chronic bronchitis and asthma.

5. Overcrowding
An overcrowded poorly ventilated environment is a favourable atmosphere for the spread of tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is a highly contagious fatal lung disease in which the affected individual releases several droplets containing the causative agent each time they cough. The organism is subsequently inhaled by those around, especially where cross-ventilation is poor. Hence, avoid living in a crowded, poorly ventilated room with someone who has been coughing persistently for over 3 weeks.

6. Lack of good hydration
Good hydration has been shown to enhance lung function by giving the airway mucus a thin soft consistency which makes it more effective in protecting the lungs. Experts recommend an average of 6-8 glasses of clean water daily for good hydration.

7. Fatty diets
Fatty foods have been associated with reduced respiratory health. For instance, a recent Australian study revealed that high-fat diets may trigger attacks of asthma. This is apart from the fact that they increase your risk of obesity which may lead to obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) characterized by difficulty with breathing and gasping or choking during sleep. Consider replacing those fatty junks with fruits, fresh vegetables and nuts.

In conclusion, if you really want to enjoy the vast benefits of healthy lungs devoid of any form of disease, then you need to steer clear of the aforementioned habits.

Imagr Credit: thegistoffit.com
 
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