Foods that Can Weaken the Respiratory System
The human respiratory system includes the nose, throat, lungs and diaphragm. The main functions of the respiratory system are to transport air in the lungs to oxygenate blood and expelling carbon dioxide. It also helps protect the body against harmful particles that are inhaled. There are many diseases that can affect the respiratory system, including infections such as the common cold, flu, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. People prone to infections or those with lung disease or cancer should be especially mindful of their diet as eating certain foods can have negative effects on lung function and the respiratory system. Conversely, there are several foods that can have a positive impact on respiratory health. Including these foods in your diet can help keep respiratory disease symptoms at bay and help you live a healthy life. Did you know there’s an entire profession within the healthcare field dedicated to treating patients who have difficulty breathing? Respiratory Therapy is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the respiratory system. This includes the lungs, airways and chest wall. Respiratory therapists work with patients of all ages who have a variety of conditions, including asthma, cystic fibrosis and pneumonia. They may be responsible for the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of patients with breathing disorders. Respiratory therapists may also be responsible for educating patients and their families on how to manage their conditions. If you’ve been exploring the possibility of a stable and rewarding healthcare career without spending a lot of time and money pursuing medical school, becoming a respiratory therapist may be a great fit for you. The job outlook for respiratory therapists is good, with projecting that the number of respiratory therapist jobs will grow by 14 percent from 2021 to 2031. The median salary for respiratory therapists is $61,830. If you’re interested in helping people breathe easier, consider a career as a respiratory therapist. RTs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities and home health care. To become a respiratory therapist, you’ll need at least an . At SLCHC, our accredited RT program equips you with a strong academic background and hands-on experience to become a competent and highly sought-after respiratory therapist. To learn more, call 866-529-2070 or .