The sustained increase in respiratory diseases in the country and the shortage of influenza vaccines in several Health centers, has lit the alerts in the population and health authorities. As reported by the Undersecretary of Public Health, Andrea Albagli, Although there is still no significant increase in hospitalizations, outpatient consultations have been increasing and the peak of respiratory diseases is expected for the month of May.
Faced with this scenario, the Kinesiologist Rubén Albrecht G., Livingbetter respiratory health specialist, delivers key recommendations to face this winter season and Prevent complications, especially in children, older adults and people with chronic diseases.
The 7 keys to prevent complications and strengthen respiratory defenses
1. Adequate ventilation and temperature control: Protect spaces and airways: renew the air in closed spaces – such as homes, offices or classrooms – is essential to reduce the concentration of viruses and bacteria. Also, avoiding sudden changes in temperature, shelter properly and protect nose and mouth when leaving heated places helps reduce the risk of infections.
2. Reduce exposure to high -risk environments: Older adults, young children and people with chronic diseases should reduce their presence in places with high concentration of viruses, such as hospitals, public transport or very busy spaces. In addition, it is important to prevent people with respiratory symptoms from visiting or staying in close contact.
3. Maintain proper hydration and food: Maintaining adequate hydration allows respiratory mucous membranes to fulfill their defense function. In turn, maintaining a feed rich in vitamin C – present in fruits such as orange, lemon, kiwi, strawberries or paprika – and zinc – addressed by legumes, nuts or lean meats – helps strengthen the immune system.
4. Avoid smoking and environments with smoke: Smoking and smoke exposure weakens the respiratory tract and increase the risk of infections. It is key not smoking and avoiding exposing other people to tobacco smoke, both at home and in the car or in any closed space, especially when there are children, older adults or respiratory patients present.
5. Keep treatments and consult on time: People with respiratory diseases, such as asthma or COPD, must follow their treatments strictly and always respect their doctor’s instructions. It is very important not to suspend self -employment. In addition, before any increase in symptoms – as difficulty breathing, fever or persistent cough – a health professional should be immediately consulted.
6. Consider respiratory kinesiotherapy in risk patients: Respiratory therapy, performed by kinesiologists, can be of great help for people with respiratory diseases or belonging to risk groups, such as young children, older adults or patients with chronic diseases. This treatment allows to improve lung capacity, facilitate the elimination of secretions and reduce the risk of complications.
7. Promote home care when possible: In the case of people belonging to risk groups or people with chronic diseases, whenever possible, it is recommended to perform their medical controls, exams, treatments or rehabilitation sessions at home. This allows to reduce transfers and avoid exposure to places with greater risk of infection, such as health centers or spaces with a lot of influx of people.
A call to prevention and self -care
“We are in time to take preventive measures and avoid major complications,” says Rubén Albrecht. “If it is still possible to access the influenza vaccine, the call is to do it as soon as possible. But in addition to vaccination, it is key to reinforce our defenses naturally, take care of our food, hydration and maintain good respiratory habits, ”adds Rubén Albrecht G.
From Livingbetter, they emphasize that consulting before persistent respiratory symptoms, such as coughing, fever or difficulty breathing, is essential to avoid complications.
“Education and self -care are today our best tools to protect us and take care of those who most want,” concludes the specialist.
