Years of smoking and breathing in pollution can take a toll on the lungs, causing symptoms like lung irritation, smoker's cough, bronchitis and shortness of breath. Fortunately, there are many lifestyle and diet changes that can improve lung health.
Get Help to Quit Smoking
Quitting smoking tops the list of ways to get healthy lungs. In most cases, the lungs begin to heal as soon as smoking stops. There are many resources, including patches and nicotine gum, to help to quit smoking. Joining online and real life support groups is another way to make quitting easier.
Clean Up Dust, Tar and Nicotine
Avoiding other pollutants and cleaning the home environment will help to ease lung symptoms too, especially if the home is filled with tar and nicotine residue. Do a thorough cleaning – wipe down walls and other surfaces and dust thoroughly. Clean or replace air filers in heating systems. A home air ionizer can help to keep air clean, while devices like humidifiers keep the air moist.