Until recently, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was a common diagnosis for persons who'd spent their lives smoking, since tobacco smoke is the biggest contributor to the condition. However, of late, COPD cases among non-smokers have been on the rise, leading to a recalibration of how we understand respiratory disease risks to our lungs. Environmental and genetic factors are affecting an increasing number of individuals who have never smoked a single cigarette, but who are experiencing shortness of breath, chronic cough, wheezing and throat issues.
World lung day : understanding common respiratory diseases and their effective management It's in the air
To be physically active in an area with severe pollution is worse than to be physically inactive. Although, in principle, people perform physical activities (such as running, cycling, yoga, etc.) to decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases, exercising in a location with a high AQI (air quality index) appears to be harmful to the lungs.
During deep-breathing exercises, the inspiratory flow rate significantly increases to maximise the intake of fresh air and oxygen. As a result, fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) and toxins that may be found in polluted air, is inhaled, causing stress to the distal air sacs of the lungs (alveoli). Over a period of time, chronic inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs from these factors lead to irreversible lung disease, and an increased risk of cardiovascular problems in an otherwise healthy non-smoker.
Long-term smoking, exposure to pollution major reasons for COPD, say doctorsHazards at home
Our homes, considered a sanctuary, can be a reservoir of lung irritants. In many parts of the world, particularly developing regions, the use of biomass fuels (wood, coal, crop residue and also fuel made out of cow dung ) for cooking and heating in poorly ventilated spaces is a leading cause of COPD, especially among non-smoking women. But the threat is also present in subtler, everyday items. Products such as mosquito coils, insect sprays, air fresheners, scented candles and the like, release fine particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that irritate the airway lining. Furthermore, fumes from outdated gas appliances, old furnaces, and certain strong household cleaning products can linger, causing chronic, low-level inflammation that steadily chips away at lung function.
Indoor air pollution: Can better design in urban infrastructure help protect the lungs? Genetic predispositions
Most non-smoking COPD cases result from factors, genetically or early in life, that one can identify and define well before they cause problems during adulthood. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency most commonly causes undiagnosed COPD. The deficiency exists as a hereditary condition. In this condition, the liver does not produce enough of the protein AAT. This protein protects the lungs from destruction with naturally-occurring enzymes. This deficiency results in the gradual destruction of lung tissue, causing structural changes associated with COPD and leading to emphysema, which often presents in patients during their 30s or 40s.
Childhood asthma that is not well controlled can also cause structural airway changes. These changes may continue into adulthood. This may cause COPD that occurs early. The airway calibre may be altered, relative to lung size. This is known as dysanapsis. Healthy non-smokers then have little "breathing reserve" and are more likely to develop obstructive lung disease with increasing age or small environmental exposures. These airway disorders are obstructive.
Another important cause is infections such as tuberculosis that can heal but leave behind significant lung damage, leading to COPD-like clinical conditions.
COPD, if left untreated, can affect other organs: expertEmpowering your lungs
The risks are real: adopting proactive strategies focused on minimising lung stress and maximising efficiency however, can offer crucial support. Apart from quitting smoking and avoiding second-hand smoke -- the single most impactful action that can be taken -- individuals should focus on environmental control and lifestyle adjustments. This includes actively improving indoor air quality, ensuring excellent ventilation, and dusting/vacuuming regularly to remove indoor pollutants. Maintaining good posture is also a simple yet powerful 'trick', as sitting or standing tall provides the lungs with maximum space to fully expand.
Practicing good nutrition and hydration is also generally known to support the body through natural detoxification and cleansing. Dietary support mainly detoxifies against oxidative stress and inflammation. Consuming antioxidant-rich foods that are high in vitamin C such as berries and citrus fruits and anti-inflammatory spices such as turmeric and ginger can help. Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as fatty fish or walnuts, in addition to food that packs dietary fibre might help improve lung function by promoting general health in people who are already suffering from COPD
Controlled coughing may assist lung clearance: this special technique of coughing helps clear mucus. Steam therapy may assist in lung clearance as it loosens the mucus. Lastly, maintaining hydration is vital, as sufficient water intake keeps the protective mucus lining thin and easier for the body to expel, thereby supporting long-term respiratory health.
(Dr. Ranganatha R., is senior consultant, lead - pulmonology, Narayana Health City, Bengaluru. ranganatha.r.dr@narayanahealth.org)