Among the causes of sickness, lung disorders range from usually minor infections , such as colds and flu, to chronic diseases, such as asthma. This affects our lungs and should be taken seriously. The followings are some of the more common lung disorder.
Bronchitis
The characteristics of this symptom of bronchitis are breathing difficulty, relentless cough, and production of thick mucus, or phlegm. Bronchities is an inflammation of the brochi, or branching tubes, that carry air to and from the lungs. Inadditon, this sickness may experience fever and a burning sensation in the chest. Acute bronchities, often a complication of a sever cold, flu or other infection of the upper respiratory tract, may require an antibiotic treatment, but it usually goes away in a week or two.
Chronic bronchitis is an extremely serious problem that develops when the bronchial tubes are irritated over a long period of time. Cigarette smoking is by far the most common cause, although exposure to air pollution and occupation dusts and chemicals may also be involved. Whatever the cause, the tubes become thickened, a mucus-producing cough is present almost all of the time, and air flow to the lungs is impaired. This creates an ideal breeding ground for infection and sets the stage for progressive lung damage.
Smoking is by far the leading cause of chronic respiratory disorders, including chronic bronchitis, emphysema and lung cancer. Emphysema is a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD that develps over a period a years, often as a consequence of smoking or chronic bronchitis. As the disease worsens, the air sacs, or alveoli, lose their elasticity and become filled with stale air, leading to an increased shortness of breath and a distended, barrel-shaped chest.
Some useful ways to prevent our lungs from damage:
1. Make every effort to stop smoking if you are one.
2. Avoid second hand smoke and air pollutants.
3. Drinks at least six to eight glasses of water a day as it helps in thinning mucus.
4. Take antioxidants as it helps to protect delicate lung tissue form the cellular damage caused by free radicals, unstable molecures that are released when the body burns oxygen.
Vitamin A and C from fresh fruits and vegetables, particularly those in yellow, orange, and dark green can build and repair epithelial tissues, which line the lungs, brochi, and other parts of the respiratory system: the tissues act as a barrier against bacteria.
Vitamin E with omega-3 fatty acids helps to reduce inflammation. They can come from whole grains, vegetable oils, fortified cereals, poultry, seafood, and eggs. Salmon, sardines, and other oily fish ara all rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
Zinc is important for boosting immunity, especially against upper respiratory infections. It is found in many foods, especially lean meat, oysters, yogurt, and whole-grain products.
Home Remedies for Bronchitis
Bronchitis treatment using Turmeric
One of the most effective home remedies for bronchitis is the use of turmeric powder. Half a teaspoon of this powder should be administered with half a glass of milk, two or three times daily. It acts best when taken on an empty stomach.
Bronchitis treatment using Ginger
Another effective remedy for bronchitis is a mixture comprising of half a teaspoon each of the powder of ginger, pepper, and cloves, three times a day. It may be licked with honey or taken as an infusion with tea. The mixture of these three ingredients has also antipyretic qualities and is effective in reducing fever accompanying bronchitis. It also tones up the metabolism of the patient.
Bronchitis treatment using Onion
Onions have been used as a remedy for bronchitis for centuries. They are said to possess expectorant properties. They liquefy phlegm and prevent its further formation. One teaspoon of raw onion juice, first thing in the morning, is very beneficial in such cases.
Bronchitis treatment using Spinach
Fifty grams of fresh leaves of spinach, and 250 ml of water should be mixed with a pinch of ammonium chloride and one teaspoonful of honey. This infusion is an effective expectorant in the treatment of bronchitis.
Bronchitis treatment using Sesame Seeds
An infusion of one teaspoon of sesame seeds, mixed with a teaspoon of linseed, a pinch of common salt, and a teaspoon of honey, can be given once at night with beneficial results in bronchitis. Half a teaspoon of dry seeds pounded into powder should be given, mixed with two tablespoons of water, twice daily. Alternately, a decoction of half a teaspoon of the same should be taken twice daily.
Bronchitis treatment using Almond
An emulsion of almonds is useful in bronchial diseases, including bronchitis. It is prepared by making a powder of seven kernels of almonds and mixing the powdered kernels in a cup of orange or lemon juice. This emulsion may be taken once daily at night.
Bronchitis treatment using Chicory
Chicory or endive is another effective home remedy for bronchitis. The powder of the dry root of this herb should be given in doses of half a teaspoon mixed with one teaspoonful of honey thrice daily. It is a very useful expectorant in chronic bronchitis.
Bronchitis treatment using Linseed
A hot poultice of linseed (alsi) should be applied over the front and back of the chest. This poultice may be prepared by mixing one cup or sixteen tablespoons of the seeds with a quantity of hot water, sufficient to convert them into a moist mealy mass. This should then be applied carefully. Turpentine may also be rubbed over the chest.