Post-pandemic living: On breathing through a mask

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While the rolling out of vaccines has started across the globe, there is no telling when people will have to toss their face masks. Almost a year into the pandemic, some are still not used to wearing a mask when outside their homes. Dr. Lisa M. Cannon shares in this blog how to breathe better with and through a mask.

Practice at home. The thought of wearing a mask or face covering at home seems silly, but that’s one of the best ways to get used to the wearing one for most of the day. An individual must learn to be mindful of how they breathe when wearing a face cover, so they can pace themselves better when partaking in activities.

People who have respiratory problems, even those who might feel lightheaded after a few hours of wearing a mask, may take breathing breaks. Be sure to be in a safe space before taking off the mask. Shoulder shrugs, arm stretches, arm circles, torso twists, and bending allow for the upper chest and shoulders to relax after hours of wearing a snug face cover. In a safe place or one’s personal vehicle, try to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

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According to Dr. Lisa M. Cannon, proper posture allows the lungs to expand, helping one breathe better even with a mask or face covering on. During workouts, only take off masks and hydrate when away from others. It would be best to decrease the intensity of the workout when exercising in public places to prevent breathing issues.

Dr. Lisa M. Cannon is a pulmonologist with more than 15 years of experience in her field. She earned her medical degree from New York College of Medicine and her fellowship in pulmonary disease, critical care, and sleep medicine from Mount Sinai Hospital. For more updates from Dr. Lisa M. Cannon, head over to this page.

COVID-19 and respiratory health: A guide to wearing face masks

In nearly all parts of the world, people are required to wear face masks when in public due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Part of the new normal, wearing face masks prevents one from spreading or catching the sticky virus.

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Individuals who have chronic respiratory problems may find themselves in a tough spot, having to wear face masks when they already need help to breathe properly. Patients with respiratory problems risk catching the virus should they not wear a mask. With masks on, they might suffer from shortness of breath or have an asthma attack. Pulmonologist Dr. Lisa M. Cannon says nobody is exempt from wearing masks when heading to public areas. If wearing a face mask poses a great threat to one’s health, it would be best for them to forego leaving their homes to keep others safe.

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Some individuals with respiratory health issues may still need to go to public places. It is important to know that getting enough air should still be their priority. Wearing a cloth face mask in public offers enough protection from the threats of the virus, along with strict physical distancing. Lung patients must avoid wearing N95 masks. While offering the most effective protection against the virus, it’s difficult to breathe through an N95 mask, says Dr. Lisa M. Cannon.

Practice wearing cloth face masks at home in order to get used to the sensation. Make trips to public areas such as grocery stores, malls, parks, and others as quick as possible. Remember to regularly wash hands with soap and sanitize used cloth face masks in order to keep hands and belongings clean.

Dr. Lisa M. Cannon is a pulmonologist with 15 years of experience in her field. Her passion for pulmonology and critical care led her to her own medical practice in New Jersey. For more updates, visit this page.

Develop these habits for healthy lungs

A person’s respiratory health should be prioritized at any age. Internal medicine specialist Dr. Lisa M. Cannon says that one’s lifestyle habits greatly contribute to the capacity of their lungs. While there are some who have pre-existing conditions, one can strengthen this part of the body with the right practices. Here are some of them:

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Do cardio exercises

To increase lung capacity, one of the most effective ways is to exercise the lungs and the heart. Cardio workouts that last up to 20 minutes are best for strengthening the lungs. When the body is active, breathing and circulation improves. Those with sedentary lifestyles and pre-existing health conditions will also benefit from including these physical activities in their daily activities.

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Avoid pollutants and allergy triggers

Keeping one’s surroundings smoke and allergen free can be challenging. For those who have no choice but to pass by these places, Dr. Lisa M. Cannon says wearing a facemask can somewhat lessen the effects of these harmful elements. Aside from this preventive measure, regularly cleaning the places one usually frequents will keep bacteria and viruses from infecting one’s respiratory health.

Check posture

When the body is at rest, the lungs are also working less than its maximum capacity. Sitting and standing tall will give the lungs more room. It will also allow a person to breathe deeper. To do this, lift the chest and slightly lean in a flat surface to check the body’s alignment. In the process do deep breathing exercises to train the body in this position.

Dr. Lisa M. Cannon is a board-certified specialist in pulmonary disease, critical care, and internal medicine. To continue giving her patients the best service, she completed her Master’s in Public Health from the NYU Wagner School of Public Service. Subscribe to this blog for similar reads.