When you think about your health, it’s easy to focus on your heart, diet and state of mind. However, your lungs are at work every moment, fueling your body with oxygen and keeping you moving. Keeping them healthy and giving them the care and attention they deserve is key to maintaining your overall wellbeing.
Taking care of your lungs is about more than avoiding smoking. It’s also about paying attention to everyday risks and knowing when to check in with a doctor. If you have a history of smoking or are interested in getting a screening, call Endeavor Health at (630) 355-8776 to connect with a doctor.
Everyday risks you might not expect
Many people believe that if they don’t smoke, their lungs are safe. But air pollution, dust and even household cleaning products can have lasting effects. Family history can also raise the risk of conditions like COPD, even for non-smokers.
Some people turn to vaping as an alternative to smoking, but research shows it may be just as harmful or worse. Vaping pens often contain untested ingredients, making it difficult to know exactly what you’re inhaling. That uncertainty is a good reminder to stay cautious about so-called “safer” options.
Why early detection can save lives
One of the most important steps you can take is a lung cancer screening if you’re at higher risk. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths, but when it’s caught early, it becomes far more treatable. In fact, survival rates can reach nearly 100% when detected in the earliest stages.
With low-dose CT scans and advanced robotic bronchoscopies, doctors can now detect problems long before symptoms appear. These tools provide early answers, which lead to easier treatment options and a stronger chance of recovery.
Guidelines recommend yearly screenings for adults between ages 50 and 80 with a history of smoking. That includes people who still smoke or those who quit within the last 15 years, with at least 20 "pack years" of smoking. If you fall into this group, a screening could be a lifesaving decision.
What a screening feels like
If you meet the guidelines for a lung screening, the process itself is quick and painless. A low-dose CT scan requires no needles, no preparation and only takes a few minutes. Afterward, your results are carefully reviewed by a team of experts, including a radiologist, your primary care doctor and a pulmonologist.
If something unusual is found, your care team will consistently have weekly meetings to discuss and ensure the best plan for you. It’s natural to feel nervous, but most people find peace of mind knowing their lungs are being closely watched. In the end, a yearly scan can be a small step that makes a big difference.
Advanced care for stronger lungs
Today’s treatments are providing patients more hope than ever. New, less invasive procedures can remove growths from inside the lungs, and targeted therapies can boost your immune system to fight cancer at the genetic level. These advances give you more options, more comfort and an overall better outcome.
Your lungs work tirelessly every day, yet they often don’t get the same care as your heart or brain. Your lungs can’t be replaced, so it’s important to notice changes early and reach out for help if something doesn’t feel right. Staying aware and proactive is the best gift you can give yourself.
Protecting your lungs, protecting your life
Caring for your lungs is about attention, prevention and action. Regular screenings, understanding risk factors and using advanced treatments when needed all give you a stronger chance at long-term health. At Endeavor Health, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—so you can breathe easier and live with confidence.
To schedule a consultation or learn more, visit us online or call (630) 355-8776 today.
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