By karleia steiner
Although some respiratory problems are mild for many people, they’re still not to be treated lightly. Respiratory symptoms can create a very serious and life-threatening condition that needs immediate attention. These kinds of problems can originate from the lungs, the esophagus, or even the heart, and can cause irreversible damage to these organs. Because of the seriousness of respiratory problems, it’s vital to learn what triggers to avoid to keep your quality of life within your control.
Allergens
Anything that your body is sensitized to is called an allergen. Respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath can occur whether or not you have a diagnosed respiratory problem. Allergens can be ingested such as foods, medicines, and drinks. Inhaled allergens such as pollen, dust, and animal dander can also affect your respiratory system. Doctors and companies like Arpi’s Industries Ltd strongly encourage keeping the air in your home clean and free of allergens. Air quality is a vital element in ensuring quality of health, and maintaining air purifiers and filters is necessary in that endeavor.
Air Pollution
Airborne irritants and air pollution are a major trigger to people with respiratory problems. Common irritants that can make existing respiratory problems much worse are smoke, vehicle exhaust, tobacco smoke, and the ground-level ozone. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) contain chemicals such as petroleum and formaldehyde, which are harmful to even the healthiest respiratory systems. VOCs are often found in many air fresheners. These airborne irritants stimulates oxidative stress that causes and encourages the inflammation of the airways. Mold is also a very common trigger that affects the airways. It can also compromise the immune system, making your body more susceptible to viral infections that trigger respiratory problems.
Respiratory Infections
The common cold, the flu, and other serious viral infections like pneumonia causes a breakdown of the lining of the esophagus. The virus and breaking down of the lining also stimulates inflammation of the airways, constricting the free and easy passage of air. Simple actions such as washing hands often and practicing good hygiene could be the difference between huffing and puffing or easy breathing.
Pests
Dustmites, cockroaches, and rodents are disease-carrying pests that certainly have an effect on the respiratory system. Their feces, fur, carcasses, and bodily discharges are a common trigger that can be harmful. Washing bedding in a hot water cycle can kill bacteria, repairing cracks that serve as entrances for pests, and regular cleaning and dusting can reduce exposure to these triggers.
Stress
Mental and emotional issues have a stronger effect on the respiratory system than most people are aware of. Stress compromises the immune system, making you more vulnerable to contracting illnesses. Stress also triggers common respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath, increased rapid breathing, and anxiety that causes wheezing, which all contribute to existing respiratory problems.
Many respiratory problems can’t be cured and so they’re managed. Knowing what your own triggers are will help in managing respiratory problems. By minimizing your exposure to triggers, you can breathe easy, optimize health, and increase your quality of life.