Causes and symptoms of poor lung health: Expert tips to prevent asthma, cancer, COPD in elders

Maintaining lung health becomes increasingly important to general health as we age. (Image: Canva)

Maintaining lung health becomes increasingly important to general health as we age. Lung disease affects around 1 in 7 older persons, making it a serious health risk. Among persons 60 years of age and older, chronic respiratory conditions rank as the second most common reason for hospitalisation. Elderly people are more vulnerable to diseases like lung cancer, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to physiological changes brought on by ageing.

Dr Pratibha Dogra, Senior Consultant, Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine Expert, Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram, says that older persons must take proactive measures to safeguard and preserve their respiratory health by being aware of these changes.

Physiological changes in lung function with age

Dr Dogra says that the natural ageing process alters the physiology of the lungs, making breathing harder for senior citizens. Among the significant adjustments are:

Decreased lung expansion: As people age, their bones may become less flexible, leading to a stiffer rib cage and less room for the lungs to expand.

Weaker respiratory muscles: As we age, our breathing muscles, such as the diaphragm, become weaker. Breathing becomes less efficient as a result.

Diminished neurological system response: As we age, our neurological system's capacity to control breathing deteriorates, leading to a reduction in the effectiveness of respiratory function.

Reduced immune function: Lung infections and long-term respiratory illnesses are more common in older persons as their immune systems deteriorate.

In addition to ageing naturally, prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke, air pollution, and environmental pollutants can further deteriorate lung health in the elderly. Lung cancer, pneumonia, COPD, and bronchial asthma are among the conditions that are common in older people.

Ways to protect ageing lungs

Even though ageing causes a natural decline in lung function, there are various things older generations may do to slow down this process and keep their lungs healthy.

Avoid smoking cigarette 

In older persons, smoking is the primary cause of bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer. The effects of secondhand smoke are similar. One of the most crucial things you can do to keep your lungs healthy is to stop smoking or limit your exposure to it. Smoking raises the risk of serious respiratory disorders and accelerates the development of chronic lung diseases. If smoking has already had an impact on someone, removing exposure can help prevent more harm.

Monitor air quality and avoid pollution

Lung illness in the elderly makes them especially vulnerable to air pollution. They can learn whether it's safe to go outside by monitoring the Air Quality Index (AQI), particularly in places where there is a lot of particulate matter or smog. In winter, especially in northern India, air quality can drastically decline, making outdoor activities dangerous for people with respiratory conditions. On days with bad air quality, staying inside can lower your risk of developing respiratory issues.

Improve indoor air quality

Respiratory problems can be exacerbated by indoor contaminants such as mould, pet dander, and chemicals from cleaning supplies. Maintaining interior air quality can be accomplished with the use of air purifiers, better ventilation, and removing indoor pollution sources. This is especially crucial for senior citizens who suffer from respiratory diseases like COPD, asthma, or other ailments.

Stay physically active

It is imperative to engage in regular physical activity to preserve lung function. Simple exercises like swimming or brisk walking might support the strength of the respiratory muscles. Exercises involving deep breathing also strengthen the diaphragm, improving respiratory efficiency. Exercise increases oxygen use in the body and improves cardiorespiratory fitness, which facilitates easier breathing even though it doesn't strengthen the lungs. Moderate exercise can help people with COPD and asthma avoid their symptoms getting worse.

Adopt a healthy diet

Overall lung health is supported by a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and anti-inflammatory foods. Nutrients found in foods like apples, red bell peppers, garlic, ginger, and turmeric improve lung function. Consuming cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli and cauliflower, has been linked to a decreased risk of lung cancer, according to studies. Immune system performance and lung inflammation can both be enhanced by eating a balanced diet.

Get vaccinated

For older persons, especially those with pre-existing lung issues, respiratory infections can be deadly. Pneumococcal and flu shots should be administered annually to avoid infections that exacerbate respiratory conditions. In addition to vaccines, infection prevention measures include proper hygiene, getting adequate sleep, and managing stress.

Also see: Ditch these 8 habits for healthy lungs, lower risk of asthma, lung cancer, tuberculosis, and more

Recognising early warning signs of lung problems

Senior citizens must identify the early indicators of lung issues. A doctor should be consulted if you experience symptoms like a cough that doesn't go away after more than a month, wheezing, coughing up blood, or chest pain that gets worse when you breathe. Severe consequences can be avoided with early identification and treatment.

One essential component of ageing successfully is lung health. Proper diet, exercise, avoidance of pollutants, and early detection of respiratory problems are among the proactive ways older individuals can maintain lung function and enhance their quality of life. Ensuring that lung health receives regular care and attention can help the lungs age as elegantly as the rest of the body.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your health specialist for more information.