Feature image of the respiratory tract
This feature image in this post is that of the respiratory tract. In the first post we discussed how to keep your lungs healthy by knowing and acting on the information that are of importance: the vital functions of the lungs, the structure and functions of the lung, the ageing processes on the lungs, and taking steps to prevent the development of unhealthy lungs.
In this post, we look at how to protect ourselves from chest infections. There are six steps.
1-Wash you hands often with soap and water.
Alcohol-based cleaners are a good substitute if you do have availability to wash your hands with soap and water.
2-Avoid crowds during the cold and flu seasons
By avoiding crowds during the cold and flu seasons, we stand away from opportunities for being infected. Such “safe distancing” did prove to control cold and flu during the years that mask, hand hygiene, and safe-distancing (MHS) were actively practised.
3-Good oral hygiene
Good oral hygiene can protect you from germs in your mouth leading to infections. For example, poor oral hygiene can lead to throat infections like a bacterial induced sore throat, or bacterial infection of the tonsils causing tonsillitis. Try to maintain good oral hygiene and see how it can help to reduce throat infections.
4-Brush your teeth at least twice daily and see your dentist at least every six months.
These preventive measures help to keep the mouth clean. Seeing a dentist at least every six months provide opportunities to keep mouth and teeth in tip-top condition.
5-Get vaccinated against the pneumococcal pneumonia infections, and against the yearly influenza infections
We have highlighted the importance of vaccinations in other posts. Take action today. See your family doctor to keep your vaccinations up to date.
6-If you get sick, keep it to yourself!
Protect the people around you, including your loved ones, by keeping your distance. Stay home from work or school until you’re feeling better.
Take home messages
There are 6 steps to protect yourself from chest infections:
- 1-Wash your hands often with soap and water. Alcohol-based cleaners are a good substitute if you cannot wash.
- 2-Avoid crowds during the cold and flu season.
- 3-Good oral hygiene can protect you from the germs in your mouth leading to infections.
- 4-Brush your teeth at least twice daily and see your dentist at least every six months.
- 5-Get vaccinated against the pneumococcal pneumonia infections, and against the yearly influenza infections
- 6-If you get sick, keep it to yourself! Protect the people around you, including your loved ones, by keeping your distance. Stay home from work or school until you’re feeling better.
Reference
https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/wellness/protecting-your-lungs
Dr LG Goh
Dr GOH Lee Gan is a retired Associate Professor in the Department of Family Medicine, National University Health System. He has an interest in learning and teaching how we can age well everyday (AWE).
