17+ Things You Didn’t Realize Were Hurting Your Lungs (2024)

The lungs are remarkable organs, responsible for delivering life-sustaining oxygen to our bodies while filtering out harmful particles and gases.

While most people are aware of the obvious threats to lung health, such as smoking and exposure to industrial pollutants, there are numerous lesser-known factors that can harm our lungs.

This article points out some of those surprising culprits that, unknowingly, we encounter in our daily lives, shedding light on ways to minimize or eliminate potential damage.

What is Lung Damage?

Lung damage refers to injuries or disorders that impair the function of the lungs. This can be caused by various factors, including chronic exposure to harmful substances like tobacco smoke, infections, chronic diseases like COPD and asthma, and traumatic injuries.

Damaged lungs struggle to efficiently exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide, leading to breathing difficulties and reduced oxygen supply to the body. Early detection and treatment can prevent or mitigate further complications.

Watch this video or keep reading to learn about some of the most surprising and unknown causes of lung damages.

1. Carpet

Moreover, new carpets often off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including formaldehyde, which can irritate the lungs and worsen respiratory conditions.

Regular vacuuming and choosing low-VOC carpets can mitigate some of these risks.

2. Gas Appliances

One primary concern is nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a harmful gas that can irritate the respiratory system, exacerbate asthma, and reduce lung function.

Prolonged exposure to low levels of this gas indoors, especially without proper ventilation, can have detrimental effects on lung health.

3. Flour

Over time, repeated exposure can contribute to a condition called “baker’s asthma,” a type of occupational condition.

It’s essential to handle flour carefully and ensure good ventilation when using it in significant quantities.

4. Mold

In some cases, specific types of molds produce mycotoxins, which can be particularly harmful to individuals, leading to more severe respiratory conditions and systemic effects.

5. Fragrance

For individuals with sensitivities or respiratory conditions, exposure can trigger headaches, asthma attacks, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat.

Opting for fragrance-free or naturally-scented products can help mitigate these risks.

6. Cockroaches

Infestations can lead to increased levels of these allergens in the home, posing a significant health risk.

Regular cleaning and addressing infestations promptly can help reduce exposure to these allergens.

7. Birds

Bird droppings and feathers can lead to respiratory conditions such as “bird fancier’s lung” or “pigeon breeder’s disease.”

These conditions are types of hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a reaction to inhaled organic dust. Regular cleaning and good ventilation can help reduce the risks associated with bird allergens.

8. Fireworks

This can exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma and can be especially harmful to individuals with pre-existing lung diseases.

It’s wise to enjoy such displays from a distance and to be mindful of air quality during and after the events.

9. Airbags

When they deploy, they release a burst of chemicals, including harmless but potentially irritating powders meant to lubricate and ensure the bag’s smooth release.

Inhalation of these chemicals and powders can cause temporary respiratory irritation and coughing, especially in confined car interiors.

However, it’s essential to remember that the benefits of airbags in protecting against severe injury far outweigh these transient effects.

10. Insulation

If inhaled, these fibers can become trapped in the lungs, leading to inflammation, scarring, and serious conditions like asbestosis or mesothelioma.

Even newer, fiberglass insulation can release small particles that may irritate the airways.

Proper handling, including wearing protective gear and ensuring good ventilation, is crucial when working with or around insulation.

11. Hot Tubs

The warm and bubbly environment can foster the growth of certain bacteria, like the one responsible for “hot tub lung,” a type of hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

Ensuring regular cleaning, proper chlorination, and maintenance of hot tubs can help prevent the growth and aerosolization of these pathogens.

12. Wood Burning Stoves

These pollutants can irritate the lungs, worsen respiratory conditions like asthma, and contribute to other health issues.

It’s essential to ensure that wood stoves are correctly installed, well-maintained, and used with dry, well-seasoned wood to minimize the release of harmful pollutants.

Proper ventilation and the use of advanced stove designs can further reduce the associated risks.

13. Radon

It can enter homes and buildings through cracks in floors, walls, or foundations, and become trapped inside.

Inhaling radon can damage lung cells and has been identified as the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.

Since radon is undetectable without specialized equipment, it’s recommended to test homes for its presence, especially in areas known for high radon levels.

14. Pesticides

Inhalation of some pesticides can cause irritation of the respiratory tract, shortness of breath, and in more severe cases, damage to the lungs.

Some pesticides have also been linked to the development or exacerbation of asthma.

When using pesticides, it’s vital to follow safety guidelines, use them in well-ventilated areas, and consider alternative pest control methods when possible.

15. Farming

Dust from soil, grains, and other materials can be inhaled, leading to disorders like “farmer’s lung,” a hypersensitivity pneumonitis caused by breathing in the dust from moldy crops.

Other risks include exposure to chemicals, pesticides, and gases like ammonia or methane from animal waste.

Wearing protective masks, ensuring proper ventilation, and following safety protocols can help mitigate these risks in agricultural settings.

16. Candles

These include particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and even traces of lead from wicks.

These pollutants can irritate the respiratory system and exacerbate existing lung conditions.

Opting for candles made of beeswax or soy with cotton wicks can reduce these risks, as can ensuring proper room ventilation when burning candles.

17. Humidifiers

Though they are beneficial for adding moisture to dry indoor air, humidifiers can also disperse harmful microorganisms or minerals into the air if they are not properly maintained.

Breathing in this mist can lead to respiratory infections or lung inflammation.

It’s vital to clean humidifiers regularly, use distilled or demineralized water, and ensure they’re set to the right humidity level (usually between 30% and 50%) to prevent mold growth and over-humidifying.

Final Thoughts

Protecting our lungs goes beyond avoiding the obvious culprits; it requires a comprehensive understanding of the hidden threats lurking in our everyday surroundings.

By being informed about these risks and taking proactive measures, we can ensure that our respiratory system remains resilient and robust.

After all, every breath we take is a testament to the remarkable adaptability of our lungs, and it’s our responsibility to keep them in optimal condition.