Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) symptoms, treatment This is a long-term diseases related to the lungs and respiratory system that can seriously affect quality of life. The most common of these diseases include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. Proper management and prevention of these diseases can improve quality of life.
What is chronic respiratory disease?
Chronic respiratory disease (CRD) is a broad term that refers to diseases that affect the respiratory system and worsen over time. These diseases affect the structure and function of the lungs and respiratory tract, leading to difficulty breathing.
Types of chronic respiratory disease (CRD)
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): This is a major CRD that blocks the flow of air into the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing.
- Asthma: This is a long-term condition in which the airways become narrowed and inflamed, causing breathing problems.
- Chronic bronchitis: This is a condition in which there is long-term inflammation in the lining of the bronchial tubes.
- Emphysema: In this the walls of the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs become damaged, reducing breathing capacity.
Level of chronic respiratory disease (CRD)
Chronic respiratory disease can occur at different levels:
- Mild: Occasional mild difficulty breathing.
- Moderate: Breathing problems during physical activities.
- Severe: Shortness of breath with even slight activity.
- Very severe: Difficulty breathing even at rest.
Why does it happen?
CRD can have many causes, including:
- Smoking: This is the main cause. Smoking causes serious damage to the lungs.
- Pollution: Air pollution and exposure to harmful chemicals increase the risk of CRD.
- Genetic: Some CRDs may be genetic, such as alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
- Occupational exposure: Workers exposed to dust, chemicals, and fumes have a higher risk of CRD.
Symptoms of chronic respiratory disease (CRD)
Symptoms of CRD can include:
- Persistent cough: especially in the morning.
- Shortness of breath: during physical activities and sometimes even at rest.
- Mucus production: especially in chronic bronchitis.
- Tightness in the chest: especially in asthma.
- Fatigue: Feeling tired even while doing normal tasks.
Treatment of chronic respiratory disease (CRD)
There is no complete cure for CRD, but the symptoms can be controlled with proper management:
- Medications: Bronchodilators, steroids, and other respiratory medications.
- Oxygen therapy: In severe cases.
- Pulmonary rehabilitation: A program of exercise and education that improves respiratory capacity.
- Surgery: In some cases, such as in severe emphysema, lung volume reduction surgery is necessary.
Prevention of chronic respiratory disease (CRD)
There are some ways to prevent CRD:
- Quit smoking: This is the most important step.
- Avoid pollution: Try to avoid indoor and outdoor pollution.
- Occupational safety: Take appropriate safety measures at the workplace.
- Healthy lifestyle: Exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet.
Yoga and Workout
Yoga and exercise can play a vital role in managing CRD:
- Pranayama: Anulom-Vilom, Kapalabhati, and Bhramari Pranayama increase the capacity of the lungs.
- Asana: Bhujangasana, Matsyasana, and Ardhamatsyendrasana strengthen the respiratory system.
- Aerobic exercise: Walking, cycling, and swimming increase lung capacity and strengthen the respiratory system.
Foods to avoid
CRD patients should avoid certain foods:
- Processed foods: These contain high amounts of salt and unhealthy fats.
- Fast foods: These are unhealthy and can harm lung health.
- Highly sweetened beverages: These contain high amounts of sugar which can increase bloating.
Healthy foods
Some important foods for healthy lungs are:
- Green leafy vegetables: Spinach, kale, and broccoli are rich in antioxidants.
- Fruits: Especially berries, oranges, and apples which are rich in vitamin C and other nutrients.
- Fish: Especially salmon and mackerel which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds are rich in vitamin E and healthy fats.
What to do and what not to do
What to do:
- Eat a healthy diet: Eat fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Exercise regularly: To improve respiratory capacity.
- Drink enough water: Keep the body hydrated.
- Quit smoking: For lung health.
- Regular check-ups: To monitor the condition of the lungs.
what not to do:
- Avoid smoking: It damages the lungs.
- Avoid pollution: Avoid going to polluted areas as much as possible.
- Avoid unhealthy foods: Avoid foods that are high in fat, salt, and sugar.
- Avoid sitting: Lack of physical activity can lead to deterioration in health.
- Do not self-medicate: Always take medicines on the advice of a doctor.
Chronic respiratory disease can be managed with the right information and precautions. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, and a balanced diet, you can improve your lung health and reduce the effects of CRD. It is important to adopt the right treatment and management strategies as advised by the doctor. You also read why heart disease happen?
