Guarding Against Pneumonia: Lifestyle Choices for Stronger Defences

Often, in our quick-paced lives, the significance of health is disregarded which can be deteriorated by various factors of living. Pneumonia is a potentially serious respiratory disease that can hit anyone but is more dangerous for people whose lifestyles could compromise their immune systems. These things include stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep, among others, which all weaken our body defences making us susceptible to these diseases.

Pneumonia has multiple effects on us. The infection causes inflammation in the air sacs in the lungs and results in cough with mucus, fever, difficulty breathing and chest pain. For those already straining their bodies with an unhealthy lifestyle, pneumonia can have an even worse impact thus leading to delayed recovery and potential complications. To avoid complications, it is important to see a doctor if you have a persistent cough accompanied by a high fever or difficulty in breathing says Dr. Anjali R Nath, Consultant Pulmonologist, SPARSH Hospital, Bangalore.

Prioritising healthy lifestyles can greatly reduce pneumonia risk. A powerful and resilient immune system comes from having fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in a balanced diet. Exercise not only improves general health but also helps the body to fight infections. Breathing exercises along with regular physical exercise also help in improving the lung capacity. While you sleep, your body renews itself; this makes adequate sleep very important. This is because chronic stress weakens the immune system. Moreover, older adults, those with underlying health problems, and people leading specific lifestyles should be more vigilant. Pneumonia has a higher chance of occurring in smokers; therefore, they have to stop smoking to maintain their respiratory health. In addition, the immune system becomes weaker due to excessive alcohol consumption hence making it susceptible to diseases.

Prevention of pneumonia is important. In some cases, like particular strains of bacteria and viruses that cause pneumonia, particularly among older persons or those who have weakened immune systems, vaccines can provide extra protection. Furthermore, other ways to avoid getting sick include practising good hygiene by washing hands correctly and avoiding people with respiratory illnesses. Also, maintaining sufficient fresh air in homes and workplaces can decrease germ contamination thereby minimizing the rate of transmission of infections.

Hence, our habits should be geared towards supporting our body’s immune system in an environment where our lifestyles make us prone to health risks. By choosing to eat well, exercise regularly, manage stress and see a doctor when we need one we gain control over ourselves thereby reducing the possibility of contracting pneumonia along with other health problems. “Our health is influenced by choices we make about how we live. Even small changes today can lead to lifelong wellness says Dr. Anjali.