6 Habits That Damage Lungs Even Though They Don't Smoke

Lung health illustration. (Freepic)

JAKARTA - Not a few people think that maintaining lung health only means staying away from cigarettes. In fact, there are a number of daily habits that seem trivial but have the potential to slowly damage respiratory tract health.

Starting from sitting for too long, breathing smoke from household products, to drinking less water everything can have a negative impact if allowed to continue.

A pulmonological consultant from Amar Jain Hospital, WHC, Jaipur, India, Dr. Shivani Swami, revealed that there are six common habits that can reduce lung function, although not all of them seem harmful in person.

Smoking is certainly the main cause of various lung diseases, including cancer. However, similar risks also lurk those who are often exposed to cigarette smoke from others. According to Dr. Swami, long-term exposure to passive cigarette smoke can accelerate the decline in lung function and increase the risk of respiratory tract infection.

"Even if you don't smoke, you are close to people who smoke or are exposed to smoke from hoods or rewards, the effect remains dangerous," he said.

Lack of physical activity is also referred to as another cause that is often overlooked. A lifestyle that is too passive can reduce the efficiency of lung work, even more at risk than excess weight.

Sitting bent for a long time, for example while working in front of a computer or leaning on a sofa, can inhibit lung capacity to expand optimally. Bad posture puts additional pressure on the lungs, reducing respiratory effectiveness.

Although sometimes considered polite, holding back cough too often can actually be a dangerous habit. Cough is a natural mechanism for the body to clean the lungs from mucus and irritation. If often detained, this process becomes disturbed and can trigger a buildup of dirt in the airway.

A fluid-deficient body will affect the mucose layer in the lungs. Dr. Swami explained that hydration is sufficient to keep mucus in the lungs thin and elastic, making it easier for the body to secrete foreign substances.

"If mucus is too thick, then the lungs have difficulty cleaning the irritant and are more susceptible to infection," he explained.

The use of chemicals such as floor cleaners, disinfectants, room fragrances, or aromatherapy candles should also be watched out for. These products often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate respiratory tracts and damage lung tissue if inhaled in the long term.