Tips to Improve Lung Health After Recovering from COVID-19

For many COVID-19 patients, clearing out the virus is only half the battle won.

Many still suffer from unpleasant after-effects or the threatening damages COVID causing SARS-COV-2 virus unleashes on the vital organs- particularly the lungs. From impaired lung function, COVID pneumonia, oxygen saturation and shortness of breath, lung fibrosis and chronic pulmonary distress- one of the gravest damage COVID-19 does it to the lungs. Those with chronic respiratory issues and frail immunity also face a higher severity and mortality rate.

Do Regular Breathing Exercises

Breathlessness and obstructed oxygen flow is a common symptom of COVID severity, as COVID-19 starts to attack the lungs. COVID patients are often asked to practice simple deep breathing exercises and meditative postures which can help them breathe better and improve blood flow to the lung and chest passageways.

Diaphragmatic breathing, deep breathing movements promote deeper inhale and muscle movement in the lungs and the chest. Taking deep breathes while lying on the stomach can also help boost oxygen flow.

Pursed lip breathing is a simple breathing technique that makes you slow down your pace of breathing by having you apply deliberate effort in each breath. You can practice pursed lip breathing at any time. It may be especially useful during activities such as bending, lifting, or stair climbing. Practice using this breath 4 to 5 times a day when you begin in order to correctly learn the breathing pattern.

Practice diaphragmatic breathing for 5 to 10 minutes 3 to 4 times per day. When you begin you may feel tired, but over time the technique should become easier and should feel more natural.

Foods to Boost Lung Capacity

A good vitamin and mineral-rich diet boost immunity and there are certain foods which cut out toxins and help you breathe easier as well. It could be an easy way to manage and promote better lung health at home.

Apples come packed with antioxidants that help keep the lungs healthy. Researchers have linked good lung function with high intakes of vitamins C, E and beta-carotene, all of which are present in apples.

Walnuts are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Eating a handful of them can help fight asthma and other respiratory conditions. Omega-3 fatty acids are thought to be anti-inflammatory nutrients with protective effects in inflammatory ailments.

Berries are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, which help fight cell damaging free radicals.

Broccoli is high in vitamin C content, carotenoids, folate and phytochemicals that fight damaging elements in the lungs. Broccoli is rich in L-sulforaphane, which tricks the cells to switch on the anti-inflammatory genes that further avoid respiratory conditions.

Cayenne pepper helps stimulate secretions and protects mucus membranes from upper and lower respiratory tract. Cayenne pepper is also a great source of beta-carotene, which has great effects on reducing the many symptoms of asthma.

Ginger is not only anti-inflammatory but also helps detoxifying and promotes the elimination of pollutants from the lungs. Ginger helps in relieving congestion, unclogging air-passages and improving circulation to the lungs, further boosting lung health.

Garlic comprises flavonoids that stimulate the production of glutathione, which helps enhance the elimination of toxins and carcinogens, further helping your lungs to function better.

Water is the best way to detoxify the body processes. Moreover, dry lungs are prone to irritation and increased inflammation. Drink six to eight glasses of water to keep yourself well-hydrated.

Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties; thanks to the curcumin compound present in it. This compound helps relieve inflammation of the airways and tightness of chest associated with asthma.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking injures the local defenses in the lungs by increasing mucus production and inflammation. And that's why people who smoke are more likely to have serious respiratory infections and illnesses, such as influenza and pneumonia .

Smoke is composed of small particles; when inhaled, the particles get stuck in the lungs. This begins a vicious cycle of permanent lung damage. Both activities can also suppress the immune system, which you need to be able to help fight infections.

Smoking not only puts you at a higher risk for contracting and transmission COVID, but it is also one of the worst things you are doing to your lungs, which are already vulnerable. Smoking and tobacco induce extra stress on your vitals, increase the likelihood of developing other pulmonary problems and infections in the long run.

Cardio Workouts Can Improve Respiratory Function

To improve lung capacity, cardio workouts, like speed-walking, jump rope, stationary bike-riding or running can make a big impact .Any activity which ramps up your breathing- is a good way to restore lung capacity and function when you are on the road to recovery.

Experts suggest patients pick up moderate or brisk physical exercises or sports which can elevate heart rate and promote blood flow. Go for regular walks , pick up home workouts and cardio activities which are good for your respiratory health. Aerobic activities may help too. Remember to be regular with your workouts, but take it slow, initially.

Avoid Exposure to Pollution and Smoke

People who have just recovered from COVID-19, or have compromised lung function should avoid unnecessary exposure to smoke, polluted environments and any activity which may obstruct functioning. Pollution may not only increase your risk of reinfection, but it may also expose you to PM 2.5, carcinogens and other potentially harmful irritants which can settle in lung cavities and make breathing difficult.

If you must step out, follow all necessary precautions, take medications and care. Steam inhalations and detox habits may also prove good.

Consider Getting a Flu Shot

Taking flu shots can be one of the ways to curb your COVID risk post recovery. It can also lessen the problems of chronic respiratory distress which is commonly encountered right now. In many cases, flu shots have been said to speed up recovery, lessen respiratory complications in high-risk age groups and safeguard you from additional ills, which can set in with a change in season and polluted weather conditions.

Laughing and Singing

Any activity that works the abdominal muscles also works the lungs. Both laughing and singing do just that. Laughing not only increases your lung capacity but also forces stale air out of the lungs so more fresh air can enter. Likewise, singing works the diaphragm muscle, which also helps increase lung capacity.