Introduction
It is impossible to overstate the importance of our respiratory system. Every part of our body is dependent on oxygen, and totally reliant on our respiratory system to supply it.
It is totally true that the most immediate factor in our existence is our next breath. Many things in life are optional or desired, but we can’t do without air.
Anyone who has had their life impacted by a serious respiratory illness or condition knows how debilitating it is. Even when it is not immediately life-threatening, any restriction on our oxygen availability or utilization has massive effects on our ability to do…anything.
Our lungs and the rest of our respiratory system are an interface between us and the world. As such, they are a target for microscopic enemies – viruses, bacteria and fungi – that thrive in the warm moist environment that our breathing system provides.
On top of that are the other living and non-living environmental impacts that can damage our health, such as pollens, asbestos, dust and pollution.
All of these factors can be enough to overwhelm a respiratory system that is well-cared for, yet to make it worse, many of us take very poor care of our respiratory health.
Smoking, poor diet and lack of exercise are some, but not all, of the ways we diminish the health of our natural breathing apparatus.
This eBook will provide information on many of the factors that can cause damage to your respiratory health, how you can recognize them, and what you can do to help prevent them.