**post-exercise recovery**

A healthy person's breathing rate typically stabilizes quickly after physical activity. If you still experience shortness of breath several minutes after light activity, it may indicate declining respiratory health. Do not overlook persistent symptoms such as chronic cough, morning chest tightness, or breathlessness during daily tasks like bathing or getting dressed.

**observe cough patterns**

Coughing is a natural reflex that helps remove foreign particles, irritants, and phlegm, thereby protecting the lungs; it usually resolves within one to two weeks. A cough lasting more than three weeks or producing thick, sticky phlegm may signal irritation or a lung infection. Be vigilant if a cough is accompanied by fever, shortness of breath, chest tightness, abnormal phlegm, coughing up blood, or hoarseness. These symptoms can warn of conditions such as pneumonia, asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease, or lung cancer.

**check morning mucus**

In the morning, mucus can reflect the state of your lung health. Clear or white mucus is generally normal, but if it is yellow, green, brown, or blood-tinged, it could indicate an underlying issue. Common causes include infection, irritation, or lung stress from exposure to pollution.

**monitor sleep and fatigue**

Lung health affects sleep. Feeling tired upon waking or experiencing difficulty breathing when lying down can be signs of lung problems or low oxygen levels.

If you experience these signs, consider seeking medical advice. To protect lung health, avoid polluted areas, wear a face mask when outdoors, drink plenty of water, and practice breathing exercises. Smoking exacerbates the harmful effects of pollution, and secondhand smoke poses similar risks.

Hygiene measures help reduce the risk of respiratory infections, such as frequent handwashing and maintaining distance from people with colds or the flu. Families can limit indoor pollution by using air purifiers and avoiding carpets, which easily accumulate mold and pet dander.

Le Nguyen (According to Only My Health)