The common cause of respiratory infections are viruses, but there are several infections associated with smoking. Smoking significantly increases the risk of various respiratory infections and diseases. Here are some common respiratory infections associated with smoking and ways to prevent or mitigate them:
Common Respiratory Infections
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
When an individual experiences struggle in the airways and in breathing, it is known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Some common symptoms during COPD are shortening of breath, regular fatigue and cough, tight chest, and wheezing. Smoking and air pollution are two significant reasons for COPD.
Pneumococcal Pneumonia
This is one of the most common respiratory infections found in adults. Some common symptoms of pneumococcal pneumonia are severe chill, regular fatigue, cold and fever, continuous cough, and rapid breathing along with chest pain. Smokers have high chances of attracting this pneumococcal pneumonia.
Influenza
Smokers are at a higher risk of contracting influenza and experiencing more severe symptoms than nonsmokers. Vaccination against influenza is highly recommended for smokers.
Legionnaires’ Disease
Cigarette smoking is an independent risk factor for Legionnaires’ disease, with smokers having a significantly higher odds ratio for contracting this condition.
Tuberculosis (TB)
The habit of smoking creates a void in the immunity system of the human body. The TB infection takes advantage of weak immunity and attacks the host. So people with smoking factors are at high risk of TB. Smoking also increases the risk of relapse after successful TB treatment.
Prevention and Mitigation Strategies
Smoking Cessation
One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of any of these common respiratory infections is to quit the habit of smoking. If any individual is suffering from any respiratory infection, they have to avoid smoking immediately. These immediate changes will significantly improve your respiratory health
Vaccinations
Various respiratory infections can be prevented with the help of proper vaccination. For example, pneumococcal pneumonia and influenza can be prevented with the help of proper vaccination. These vaccination processes play an important role for smokers in reducing the risk.
Avoiding Secondhand Smoke
Not only smoking but also secondhand smoking is also harmful. So individuals have to avoid their exposure in the areas of smoking. Avoiding environments where people are smoking is also important for reducing the risk of any respiratory infection.
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
Individuals who are struggling to quit smoking can use various other nicotine replacement therapies, such as patches, gum, lozenges, or sprays. These alternatives can help you quit smoking successfully. Combining different forms of NRT can be particularly effective.
Medical Advice and Support
Moreover, individuals who are experiencing problems breathing and having short breath can look for some of the best chest specialists, like Dr. Bhanushali Hospital and Centre for Lung Surgery. They provide various types of therapies and lungs surgeries for a happy and disease-free life.
Conclusion
Quitting smoking is essential for the prevention of respiratory infections. Furthermore, vaccination and avoiding secondhand smoking are also some beneficial criteria to prevent the risk of various respiratory infections.
In case any individual is experiencing any type of respiratory problems, they should consult with some best thoracic surgeon in Thane. You can also consider Dr. Bhanushali, the best thoracic surgeon for lung cancer, for improvement in their respiratory health.
Faqs
Which are some common respiratory infections?
Common cold, pharyngitis, influenza, and epiglottitis are some common upper respiratory infections. All these infections are common in children and in young adults, whereas the risk of these infections is higher in smokers than nonsmokers.
How to take care of your lungs health?
Avoid smoking or vaping habits. Moreover, minimise spending time in the areas of smoking to avoid secondhand smoking. In case you are experiencing any type of respiratory or cardiovascular problem, kindly consult with some expert, like Dr. Bhanushali, the best thoracic surgeon for lung cancer.