seem more likely to contract Legionnaires’ disease
than people who have healthy lung function with
equal exposure to a contaminated source. People
who smoke have the highest risk, whether or not
they have underlying pulmonary disease. People
between the ages of 50 and 70 seem most likely to
develop infection after exposure.
The most effective preventive measure is strict
maintenance and cleaning of building air-condi-
tioning and heating systems, spas, whirlpools, and
other potential sources of culture for the bacteria.
Heightened awareness about Legionnaires’ disease
has resulted in improved diligence. The US Occu-
pational Safety and Health Agency (OSHA) has
implemented guidelines for building maintenance.
Because the bacteria enter the upper respiratory
tract during breathing, there are few personal
measures to reduce the risk for infection as often
it is not possible or practical to avoid locations that
are potential sources of infection.
See also INDOOR AIR QUALITY.
living with chronic pulmonary conditions More
than 30 million Americans live with chronic pul-
monary conditions such as ASTHMA, CYSTIC FIBROSIS,
PULMONARY FIBROSIS, and CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PUL-
MONARY DISEASE(COPD). Though many chronic pul-
monary conditions are far more common among
people over age 50, chronic pulmonary disease
affects young people too. Chronic pulmonary dis-
ease requires most people to make accommoda-
tions in their lifestyles, recreational activities, and
occupations.
Medical Care
People who have chronic pulmonary conditions
require ongoing medical surveillance and treat-
ment such that they may feel they “live at the
doctor’s office.” They often take numerous med-
ications and receive respiratory therapy treat-
ments. Many undergo frequent hospitalizations
for attacks, exacerbations, and INFECTION. Compli-
ance with medical treatments plan is essential but
not always easy. It is common to feel that medica-
tions are no longer necessary when they bring
about significant improvement, yet taking medica-
tions as prescribed is the most effective way to
prevent complications and, in many situations,
slow or halt the condition’s progress.
Self Care
Various lifestyle factors influence the course of
chronic pulmonary conditions. Some are actions a
person can and should take to improve his or her
pulmonary status. Other actions target overall
health and well-being. It is important for each per-
son to take leadership of his or her health and care.
Cigarette smokingCigarette smoking is the most
significant factor in many forms of chronic pul-
monary disease. The optimal lifestyle choice for
healthy lungs is never to start smoking; the next
best decision is to stop smoking. Though it is not
often possible to undo damage that has already
occurred to the LUNGS, smoking cessation can result
in improvement no matter when it takes place.
Breathing exercisesBREATHING is such a natural
occurrence that few people give it a second thought
until it becomes a struggle. BREATHING EXERCISEScan
increase lung capacity and efficiency, teaching ways
to get the most from every breath of air.
Nutritious eating habits Working hard simply
to breathe requires a lot of calories. For people
who have severe pulmonary conditions, breathing
can commandeer most of the calories consumed
each day. It is important to get enough calories to
meet the body’s needs and to infuse the body with
vital NUTRIENTSthat support health and HEALING.
Regular exercise When simply breathing con-
sumes most of the body’s energy, it’s easy to slack
off exercise. Yet the body requires regular physical
activity to function at its most efficient. Though
chronic pulmonary conditions often limit physical
exertion, many activities remain possible with
adaptation. Walking is among the most effective
exercises, providing AEROBIC FITNESS as well as
strengthening muscles. Some people find the rela-
tive weightlessness of swimming allows them to do
more with less effort. Nearly everyone, regardless
of disease type or stage, can engage in small activi-
ties that improve the body’s fitness. Structured pul-
monary rehabilitation programs help people to
make the most of the lung function they do have.
Mental health and emotional balance Coping
with the challenges and setbacks of chronic health
conditions can be overwhelming. Children who
have chronic pulmonary conditions may struggle
with peer acceptance and feeling left out of school
and social activities. Some people find support
groups safe ways to express anger, fear, and worry,living with chronic pulmonary conditions 207