Healthy lifestyle

03/08/2025

Did you know human lungs can hold 6 liters of air? That’s the volume of 3 large soda bottles! When you inhale, air enters the lungs, and oxygen moves to your blood. At the same time, carbon dioxide moves from your blood to the lungs and is exhaled. This gas-exchange process is essential to life.

02/24/2025

Pneumonia is an infection that causes the air sacs (called alveoli) in one or both lungs to fill up with fluid or pus. Find out how it can affect breathing in this fact sheet: https://go.nih.gov/aEtEaYv

02/18/2025

02/11/2025

It’s clear that shortness of breath caused by / can make life harder, but there’s another symptom that can limit the ability to do everyday activities.
Learn what it is and exercises to improve it:

If you’ve been living with COPD, you may have experienced exacerbations or sudden COPD flare-ups. Learn what you can do to help here.

02/08/2025

Is someone you love struggling with breathing issues? It could be a sign of something more serious, like COPD. Early detection is key—learning the signs of COPD now can make all the difference in managing the condition effectively. Remember, early intervention leads to the best outcomes. Don’t wait—take action today for better health tomorrow.
The first signs of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) can often be subtle and may be mistaken for normal aging or other health issues. Early detection is critical, as it allows for better management and improved quality of life. Here are the key early symptoms to watch for:
✅ Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
Feeling out of breath during everyday activities, such as climbing stairs or walking short distances. Breathlessness may initially occur only with exertion but can progress to occur at rest.
✅ Chronic Cough
A persistent cough that lasts for weeks or months, often producing mucus. Known as a "smoker's cough" if associated with a history of smoking.
✅ Increased Mucus Production
Frequent need to clear your throat, especially in the morning. Producing more phlegm than usual.
✅Wheezing
A whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe, especially during exhalation.
✅ Fatigue
Feeling unusually tired or lacking energy, which may be linked to reduced oxygen levels in the blood.
✅ Frequent Respiratory Infections
Increased susceptibility to colds, flu, or bronchitis that linger longer than usual.
✅ Chest Tightness
A feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the chest, particularly during or after physical activity.
When to See a Doctor 🩺
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if you're a smoker, have a history of smoking, or have prolonged exposure to lung irritants (e.g., air pollution, chemicals), consult a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis through tests like spirometry can help slow disease progression and improve outcomes.

01/17/2025

To diagnose COPD, and rule out other health conditions, you may need:
🟣 Spirometry - to test your lung capacity
🟣 Chest X-ray - to look for problems in the lungs
🟣 Pulse oximetry - to measure the level of oxygen in your blood
You may also need blood tests to check:
🟣 The level of carbon dioxide and oxygen in your blood
🟣 If you have alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency
🟣 For a low iron level (anaemia)
After a series of tests, your doctor may tell you that you have a certain type of COPD, such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
Our self-test helps you check for signs of severe emphysema. Click here to take it now and learn more about the types of COPD: https://bit.ly/3PGjpq9

01/11/2025

These symptoms may indicate the progression of COPD and can worsen over time.
If you want to learn more about COPD and what you can do to prevent it, contact us.💙

01/11/2025

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) can cause symptoms similar to the common cold but may also lead to more severe respiratory issues like pneumonia or worsen chronic conditions like asthma or COPD. To protect yourself and others, follow preventive measures like washing hands frequently, covering your cough, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. Stay hydrated, get adequate rest, and avoid crowded places if you're unwell. Consult a doctor for proper care, and refrain from self-medication. Stay safe and prioritize your health!

01/10/2025

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a lung condition that makes it hard to breathe. People with COPD need to be careful about what they drink. Some drinks can make breathing worse.
10 Drinks to Avoid with COPD:
1. Alcohol
Alcohol can make you dehydrated, which is not good for your lungs. It can also cause sleep problems, leading to tiredness during the day. This can make it harder to breathe.

2. Soda
Soda has a lot of sugar and carbonation. The bubbles can make you feel bloated, which can make it harder to take deep breaths. Try to drink less soda and choose healthier options instead.

3. Caffeinated Drinks
Drinks like coffee, tea and energy drinks have caffeine. Caffeine can cause your heart to race and make you feel anxious. This can lead to trouble breathing. If you enjoy caffeine, try to limit how much you have.

4. Dairy Products
Dairy drinks like milk and cream can create more mucus in your throat and lungs. Extra mucus can make it difficult to breathe. If you notice that dairy affects your breathing, it might be best to cut back.

5. Fruit Juices with Added Sugar
Many fruit juices contain added sugar, which can be harmful. Too much sugar can lead to weight gain, making it harder to breathe. It's better to choose whole fruits instead of sugary juices.

6. Sugary Drinks
Sugary drinks, like sweetened iced tea or lemonade, can cause weight gain and inflammation in your body. This can worsen COPD symptoms. Opt for unsweetened beverages to help keep your lungs healthy.

7. Very Cold Drinks
Very cold drinks can cause your airways to tighten, making it hard to breathe. If you have COPD, try to drink beverages at room temperature or slightly warm.

8. Carbonated Water
While sparkling water is often seen as a healthy option, the carbonation can still cause bloating and discomfort for some people with COPD. If you find it difficult to breathe after drinking carbonated water, consider avoiding it.

9. Energy Drinks
Energy drinks are loaded with caffeine and sugar. They can cause a rapid heartbeat and increased anxiety, both of which can make breathing harder. It's best to stay away from these drinks.

10. Alcoholic Mixers
Many mixers used in cocktails are high in sugar and additives. These can cause dehydration and may worsen your COPD symptoms. If you choose to drink alcohol, try to use natural mixers or drink in moderation.