Did you know that we breathe in and out an average of 22,000 times daily? The lungs work hard every day to endure the flight of stairs, run after our dog when we forget its leash, catch the next scheduled train, and even chase someone who won’t stop and listen to what we have to say. 

Breathing also helps us laugh our heart out at someone else’s “corny” jokes, talk non-stop with a friend and cry over someone who doesn’t deserve our tears.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), our lungs are the heart of the respiratory system. The respiratory system comprises the trachea (windpipe), chest wall, diaphragm muscles, and other tissues. These parts work together to make the gas exchange and breathing possible. Your brain senses when your body needs to take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide, and it regulates your breathing rate.

Thus, we need to take good care of our precious lungs.

Lung cancer and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, are primarily caused by cigarette smoking. Breathing can become more challenging due to cigarette smoke's ability to narrow airways. It results in persistent lung edema or inflammation, which can cause chronic bronchitis. Cigarette smoke damages lung tissue over time and might lead to cancer.

Exercise keeps your lungs in good condition, just as it does for your body. The lungs work harder when your heart beats faster while exercising. Extra oxygen is needed by the body to fuel the muscles. Your lungs work harder to provide that oxygen while releasing more carbon dioxide.

Your lungs can readily resist these pollutants when they are healthy. But as it gets older, they lose part of their resilience and become more susceptible to illnesses. 

When working in industries like construction, mining, or waste management, take all necessary safety steps to reduce exposure to airborne pollutants, avoid secondhand smoke, and avoid leaving the house during rush hour. 

Breathing deeply helps cleanse the lungs. Sit peacefully and take deep, slow breaths just through your nose. Then exhale through your lips for at least twice as long. Counting your breaths could be beneficial. Deeper breaths come from the stomach, where your diaphragm is located, whereas shallow breaths originate from the chest. As you practice, be mindful of how the stomach rises and falls. You get less anxious and more calm after performing these breathing exercises.

Every August of each year, the Philippines observes National Lung Month. It is an ideal time to take good care of your precious lungs and assess the possibility of contracting one of the several lung-related disorders. As your lungs work hard 24/7, you should also work hard to keep this vital organ healthy. (PIA-NCR)