Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause illnesses to people. The novel coronavirus or covid19 is a new respiratory virus first identified in December 2019 in China. Covid19 is more contagious than the stains that were earlier identified as SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) and MERS (middle east respiratory syndrome). Older population and those with underlying illnesses are most susceptible to covid19. Smokers too should definitely be wary.
Cigarette Smoking and Coronavirus
Smokers are at no greater risk to catch the coronavirus. However, smokers are more likely to experience severe symptoms and complications, if infected. Preliminary research suggests that smokers infected with Covid19 are nearly 1.5 times more likely to have severe symptoms. They are 2.5 times more likely to be admitted to the ICU, need mechanical ventilation, or even die compared to non-smokers. (source: New England Journal of Medicine, American Lung Association).
E-Cigarette Vapers/smokers and Coronavirus
Research suggests vaping affects respiratory health, decreases the body’s ability to respond to infection and increases the severity of lung diseases. Vaping impedes lung’s function to clear our mucous, further increasing chances of infections. It compromises immunity and health of respiratory channels.
Clearly, catching a lung infection is not advisable, especially when there’s a global pandemic we’re all in. While research into e-cigarettes and their effects on lung health is still at nascent stage, the safest option to prevent any serious risks is to stop use of all types of cigarettes.
Steam Inhalation: A Rehab for Smokers and Coronavirus Patients
Along with the lung damaging effects of smoking, congestion, cough and wheezing is common amongst regular smokers. All these are indications of an unhealthy lung function. If healthy, lungs and are able to detox themselves naturally, the mucus would not accumulate or create complications.
Steam is scientifically proven to ease breathing and improve lung function. Inhaling steam 15 to 20 minutes or better still full-body steam bathing brings instant relief. The breathing becomes easier and wheezing decreases substantially.
A 2018 study published in the Journal of Pulmonary & Respiratory Medicine showed that steam therapy was an effective solution to detox the lungs. (source: healthyshots)
Steam also helps in removing the mucus from the upper airways, including the nose and throat , during a respiratory infection. (source:webmd.com).
During the Coronavirus pandemic, when our immunity should not be compromised, “Steam does help to activate the immune system” according to Dr Vichar Nigam, consultant, Internal Medicine, Columbia Asia, Pune .(source: healthyshots)
Regular steam therapy is also proven to help kick the habit. It helps detox and sweat out the tar and toxins and makes the rehabilitation process smoother. Google it!
Visit www.SteamPro.in today to understand how you can transform your existing shower space into a wellness haven for your entire family. Get steam, it’s the right choice in this ‘new normal’, life post coronavirus.
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