Five simple daily habits to protect your lungs

City residents often pay little attention to lung health, even though the lungs work constantly to supply oxygen and remove carbon dioxide. Marking World Lung Day on September 25, pulmonologist Dr Pankaj Chhabra shared five easy habits to keep lungs healthy and lower the risk of breathing problems.

Tobacco and Air

Dr Chhabra stated that smoking is a major preventable cause of lung damage because tobacco smoke harms airways and raises the risk of lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He advised staying away from cigarettes, beedis, and hookah, while also avoiding second-hand smoke for children, older adults, and asthma patients. Indoor air quality also matters, as dust, mould, cooking fumes, and strong cleaning chemicals can irritate the airways. The doctor suggested keeping rooms well-ventilated while cooking, cleaning dust often, and fixing dampness quickly.

Exercise and Sickness

Regular physical exercise like walking, cycling, or swimming helps the body use oxygen better. However, city dwellers should avoid heavy outdoor workouts near busy traffic on days when air pollution levels are high. During infection seasons, people should wash hands often, stay away from sick individuals, and get vaccines like the flu shot. Dr Chhabra warned that warning signs like a lasting cough, breathlessness, wheezing, or chest discomfort should never be ignored as normal, and patients must see a doctor instead of taking medicines on their own.