Respiratory Health During COVID-19

As we shift our entire lives in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, we can’t help but worry about the health of our loved ones. Maybe you know someone whose immune system is vulnerable, a loved one stuck on the road still trying to make it home, or someone who has lost their job. Our hearts go out to you, whatever your situation may be. It’s an uncertain time that calls for careful, preventative measures.

All we can do is remain optimistic, educate ourselves as best we can, and continue to strive to be the healthiest version of ourselves. How do you stay healthy during this time? Here are some of the best ways to promote optimum health during COVID-19.

 

Practice Respiratory Hygiene

What exactly is good respiratory hygiene? It is making sure you and those around you do what they can to prevent the spread of the virus. This means coughing or sneezing into your sleeve so you cover your nose and mouth, as well as disposing of tissues. Good respiratory hygiene is so important because it protects those around you from catching viruses like the cold, flu, and COVID-19.

 

Preventative Steps You Can Take During COVID-19

1. Wash your hands as often as possible.
2. Clean the surfaces within your home routinely, such as light switches, phone, hand rails, doorknobs, remote controls, and your car’s steering wheel.
3. Cover your coughs and sneezes.
4. Avoid touching your face, especially with unwashed hands.
5. Stay at home to avoid coming in close contact with someone who is sick.
6. If you have a home health nurse, make sure they are also practicing prevention methods.
7. Give your lungs a break and quit smoking now. You’ll need them to be as strong as possible.
8. It is recommended to clean your oxygen concentrator thoroughly at least once a week. Start by cleaning the outside of your unplugged device with a soapy, warm washcloth. Next, clean the particle filter in a sink full of warm soapy water as you remove the excess dirt and dust. Soak the cannula in mild dish washing soap and water. Rinse the cannula with warm water and white vinegar (10 to 1). Rinse thoroughly. After each step, let your device air-dry.

 

Maintain a Healthy Diet

There are even more preventative health measures you can take that involve your diet. Enhancing your immune system with healthy, wholesome foods will help you stay healthy and feel more energized. Eat the rainbow! The more diverse your diet is, the better. Different foods will provide your body with different benefits, and don’t forget to hydrate! Some great foods that will enhance your respiratory health are:

• Fatty fish
• Apples
• Apricots
• Broccoli
• Walnuts
• Beans
• Berries
• Poultry

 

Stay Fit to Fight COVID-19

Exercise boosts our health physically and mentally. Thankfully there are a lot of great workouts out there that don’t require you to leave your house! You can try out some balance exercises while doing little things like brushing your teeth can help promote stamina and prevent falls. Get some cardio in each day by walking up and down stairs or taking laps around your house. Additionally, a quick Google search will help you find all sorts of yoga exercises to follow along with if you’re looking to strengthen your body while at the same time maintaining lower stress levels.

You can even do exercises right in your chair! Do some chair squats with your feet as wide as your shoulders. Squat into your chair and back up again, doing several repetitions. For something a little more challenging, you could try chair tricep dips by sitting in a chair and lifting your body out of it with your arms. You don’t need a gym to get some good exercise in.

 

Stay Connected

With social distancing in full effect, it’s incredibly important to find moments to keep in touch with your loved ones during COVID-19. Staying cooped up inside all day everyday means FaceTime, Skype, and calling your friends and family are your options. Be sure to check on them as much as you can, as social distancing can leave one feeling alienated, and even increase symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Our support systems are what make us strong. Without those warm hugs it can feel a bit lonely for loved ones. Reach out to them and encourage them to stay positive. Try writing in a daily gratitude journal with them, or help one another set goals to try a new hobby or two during your time at home.

The staff of Liberty Medical are thinking of you and your loved ones during these hard times. Please reach out to us at 800.375.6060 if you have any concerns or questions about your oxygen device.

Stay safe, healthy, and positive.