We rely on our lungs every moment, yet it can be easy to overlook lung health until breathing becomes difficult. Learning how the lungs work, recognizing possible warning signs and knowing where to turn for support can help people make informed choices and seek care when it matters most.
This information was recently shared with Service Coordination, Inc. (SCI) Team Members by our staff nurse, Jenna Hoffman, RN, BSN.
What Do the Lungs Do?
The lungs are a central part of the respiratory system. Tiny air sacs called alveoli move oxygen into the bloodstream and help the body release carbon dioxide. The respiratory system also warms and moisturizes the air we breathe and helps filter harmful substances. When disease affects the airways, lung tissue or blood vessels, everyday activities can become more difficult.
Understanding Lung Disease
Lung disease is a broad term that includes chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pulmonary fibrosis; infections such as pneumonia, influenza, RSV and COVID-19; vascular conditions such as pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary embolism; lung cancer; and e-cigarette or vaping use-associated lung injury (EVALI). Genetics can play a role, but smoking, air quality, occupational or household exposures, infections, activity level and other environmental or lifestyle factors can also affect lung health.
Know the Warning Signs
- A cough that does not go away or is getting worse
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Ongoing mucus production
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Changes in voice
- Chest pain or tightness
- Coughing up blood
- Blue or gray lips, skin or nails
If symptoms are new, sudden or worsening, seek medical attention. Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood or blue or gray coloring may signal an emergency. Early evaluation and treatment can reduce the risk of serious complications. If you are unsure what to do, contact a health care professional or emergency services.
Everyday Steps to Support Lung Health
- Reduce exposure to irritants. Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke, test for radon, use household and workplace chemicals as directed, and pay attention to air-quality alerts.
- Lower the risk of infection. Wash your hands, avoid close contact with people who are sick and ask a health care professional which vaccines are appropriate for you.
- Stay active in ways that work for you. Walking, seated movement, stretching or swimming can support endurance and breathing. Ask a health care professional before beginning a new exercise routine.
- Practice breathing techniques. Pursed-lip and diaphragmatic breathing may help some people control their breathing. A clinician or pulmonary rehabilitation professional can demonstrate the right technique.
- Support overall wellness. Prioritize sleep, stress management, hydration and balanced meals with fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
- Keep up with routine care. Discuss changes in breathing, medications and recommended screenings with your health care professional. If you use an inhaler, oxygen, CPAP, BiPAP or another device, follow the care plan and ask for help if the equipment is not working properly.
Managing a Lung Condition
Treatment depends on the condition and may include medication, oxygen therapy, breathing equipment, pulmonary rehabilitation, smoking cessation or other specialized care. Pulmonary rehabilitation combines education, supervised activity, breathing strategies and support to help people manage symptoms and participate more fully in daily life. The best starting point is a conversation with a health care professional about symptoms, goals and barriers to following the care plan.
Quitting Smoking or Vaping
Stopping smoking or vaping is one of the most important steps a person can take for lung health. Quitting can be difficult, and many people need more than one attempt. Support can include a personalized quit plan, counseling, medication or nicotine replacement under a clinician’s guidance, peer support and help identifying triggers. Every step toward reducing or stopping use matters.
Resources and Support
- American Lung Association: education, condition information and support for people with lung disease and caregivers.
- Lung HelpLine: trained professionals who can answer questions and help people find local services; 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872).
- Better Breathers Club: in-person and virtual support groups for people living with lung disease.
- Freedom From Smoking: tools and programs to help people stop smoking.
- Maryland Department of Health Smoking Prevention and Control: Maryland cessation information and available supports.
- Live Vape Free and VapeHelp: support for quitting vaping or e-cigarettes.
- GO2 for Lung Cancer and CancerCare: education, counseling and support related to lung cancer.
- American Lung Association Financial Assistance Programs: information about possible help with costs associated with lung care.
Supporting Health Through Person-Centered Choices
At SCI, we believe people should have the information, resources and support they need to make choices about their health and well-being. Whether someone wants to prepare questions for a medical appointment, explore a smoking cessation program or find support for living with a chronic condition, person-centered conversations can help connect goals with practical next steps.
This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a qualified health care professional about questions or symptoms. Call 911 for a medical emergency.