Post your response to the following: Your cousin Stella, who lives 300 miles away, has smoked nearly a pack a day for about 5 years. Lately, she has been complaining about shortness of breath more than usual, but she does not think she needs to see a doctor. What would you say to Stella that might convince her to have a doctor evaluate her symptoms? What would you say regarding the impact of smoking on her respiratory health? How is her respiratory function different from “normal” respiratory function? Back up the statements in your email to Stella with at least two facts from the “Smoking and COPD” article listed on this week‘s Electronic Reserve Reading page.
I was about to answer this -- until I saw that you need to give facts from articles that you have read.
We do not have access to those articles -- so you're on your own.
Subject: Concern for Your Health and Well-being
Dear Stella,
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to discuss something with you that has been weighing on my mind lately. I have noticed that you have been experiencing shortness of breath more frequently, and I am genuinely concerned about your health. Although you may not think it's necessary, I strongly urge you to consider seeing a doctor to evaluate your symptoms. The potential benefits of a medical evaluation far outweigh any inconvenience it may cause.
Smoking and its Impact on Respiratory Health:
It is important to understand the impact of smoking on your respiratory health. Smoking, especially at the rate of a pack a day for five years, has a significant effect on your lungs and overall well-being. Here are a couple of facts from the "Smoking and COPD" article to support this claim:
1. According to the article, smoking damages the airways and air sacs in the lungs, leading to various respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is a progressive illness that causes persistent breathing difficulties and can severely impact your quality of life.
2. The article also highlights that smoking is the leading cause of preventable deaths worldwide, contributing to a range of respiratory diseases, including lung cancer and bronchitis. These conditions can be life-threatening and have long-term consequences for your overall health.
Difference between Normal and Compromised Respiratory Function:
Comparing your respiratory function to "normal" respiratory function, it is crucial to understand how smoking has likely affected yours. Smoking can lead to several detrimental changes, such as:
1. Reduced lung capacity: Prolonged smoking can cause lung tissue damage, decreased airflow, and reduced lung capacity, making it more difficult for you to take deep breaths and get an adequate amount of oxygen.
2. Decreased efficiency in clearing airway mucus: Smoking impairs the cilia, which are tiny hair-like structures lining the airways and responsible for clearing mucus. This impairment can result in the accumulation of mucus and increased vulnerability to respiratory infections.
Considering these factors, it is vital for you to seek medical advice and evaluation from a healthcare professional. They can assess the extent of any potential damage caused by smoking and provide appropriate guidance and treatments to help manage your respiratory symptoms more effectively.
Stella, please remember that I care for your well-being, and these concerns stem from a genuine place. Your health should always be a priority, and seeking medical attention will help you gain a better understanding of your respiratory condition and provide you with the necessary support to improve your overall health.
Take care of yourself, and I am here for you every step of the way.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]