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MCC Daily Tribune

October is Healthy Lung Month

We rarely think about breathing except when we have trouble doing so and that’s why every October is Healthy Lung Month. Numerous organizations have joined forces to educate the public about the importance of protecting our lungs against general neglect, bronchitis, mold, air pollution, and smoking. The bottom line is If we take care of our lungs, our lungs will take care of us.

HOW TO OBSERVE HEALTHY LUNG MONTH

  1. Give up smoking

    Leaving tobacco behind is a hard feat to accomplish but once you do, your efforts will pay off with an improved ability to breathe deeper and longer, and healthier life can soon begin. Your body (and lungs) will thank you.

  2. Get a check-up

    The best way to know if your lungs are functioning properly is to check in with your doctor. Discuss any shortness of breath and be honest about any symptoms. Pretending that symptoms don't exist won't make them go away. With a good bill of health and an action plan for better lung maintenance, you'll breathe easier in October and beyond.

  3. Clean your house

    Lots of people have allergies, especially to dust and animal dander. Make sure that you are regularly dusting your house, washing your blankets and rugs, and brushing your dogs and cats for any excess hair they shed. Change your household cleaners to gentler, non-toxic varieties. They may cost more but in the long run, you'll be helping yourself and the environment.

 

WHY HEALTHY LUNG MONTH IS IMPORTANT

  1. October pollen

    Millions of people with lung problems struggle with pollen during the entire month of October. Raking up dry leaves and working outside in unstable weather makes people susceptible to asthma and bronchitis. Anything that interferes with the lungs' job of circulating oxygen throughout our bodies can cause lungs to fail.

  2. Learn why smoking is deadly

    Make a commitment to stop smoking. Respiratory conditions like COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and asthma can end up as lung cancer. Smoking exacerbates the blockage of clean air to the lungs. Give your lungs a break and quit smoking once and for all.

  3. Know the warning signs

    If you have a cough that won't go away, see your doctor. It may be nothing but it could be an early warning sign of a respiratory condition affecting your lungs. Other symptoms include tightness of the chest, wheezing, and ongoing shortness of breath, especially when physically exerting yourself. During Healthy Lung Month in October, discover community resources (many at low or no cost) that can help you breathe easy for years to come.

Sarah Benedict
MCC Wellness Council
10/25/2021