Even though millions of people throughout the country suffer from respiratory problems, more than half of the states have a shortage of primary care physicians who can treat these ailments. That is one of the reasons why it is so important for patients to spend some time educating themselves on their own ailments. Those who are able to identify their respiratory problems as quickly as possible might be able to avoid a myriad of secondary health complications.
Asthma
Contrary to what many people believe, there are actually dozens of different types of asthma. These conditions are all characterized by the same few symptoms including wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. The most common type of asthma is called allergic asthma, and the side effects can be avoided by steering clear of common triggers such as pollen, dust, and dander from certain animals. Those who are diagnosed with asthma might also need to carry an inhaler with them to treat acute attacks.
Not only that, but they should be careful about the activities that they choose to participate in. Although it is not impossible to live a healthy lifestyle and to be active, it may be challenging. Because of this, running or walking too fast might be difficult for you. Talk to your doctor before you participate in such exerting exercises on a regular basis. One type of exercise that you should be able to do without causing you to complicate your asthmatic issues, though, is yoga
COPD
Unlike minor lung infections, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) almost always requires professional treatments. In addition to speaking with your primary care physician, you should also work with a doctor who has a specialized academic background such as a Bachelors in Respiratory Therapy. If you catch this condition early and follow all of the instructions given to you by your respiratory therapist, then you should be able to minimize most of the side effects. In the later stages of COPD, many patients require extensive surgery to remove scar tissue from their lungs.
Pneumonia
This lung disease can be caused by fungi, bacteria, or a virus. Such germs are those that a person can breathe in. As long as patients are diagnosed and treated early, they should be able to fully recover within three or four weeks. Some of the secondary complications that you might want to keep an eye out for include coughing, chills, and a high fever. You should know, however, that coughing and sneezing means that you’re releasing fluid into the air. If someone else breathes in what you’re letting out of your system, then they will catch it to. It can be pretty contagious!
In fact, children and seniors are the most susceptible to pneumonia, and many doctors suggest yearly shots for those two age groups. Those with serious heart conditions or other long-term health conditions may also be susceptible to catching pneumonia from another person, and so if you do end up having this condition you should avoid such people.
Lung Cancer
It is an unfortunate fact that lung cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. This type of cancer can be very difficult to detect, and that is why all patients who have ongoing respiratory problems must immediately speak with a doctor about further testing. The single most effective way to reduce your risk of lung cancer is to limit your exposure to airborne toxins. Radon particles, asbestos fibers, and cigarette smoke will all increase your risk of this disease. To help with this, you should have your home inspected for asbestos. This is especially important if you live in an older home as asbestos are commonly found in older structures and housing materials.
Another idea would be to have a no-smoking ban in your home. Have a sign up if necessary, but make sure that all guests know that you would appreciate it if they were to smoke outside. You may even want to ask that they smoke off your property so that the smoke doesn’t come into the house through a door or window. Let them know, of course, that your rule has nothing to do with them but more so your personal health. If you present that fact respectively, then they should respect your wishes and be more than willing to support you and your health by not smoking around you.
The vast majority of respiratory problems can easily be treated, but it is still a good idea to err on the side of caution. If you have a lingering cough or any unusual chest pain, then you must schedule a comprehensive examination with your physician. A doctor will also be able to give you suggestions on how to reduce your risk of future infections and acute attacks.