Aging changes in the lungs

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Changes in lung tissue with age

Respiratory cilia

Common lung problems in the elderly include chronically low oxygen levels (reducing tolerance to illness), decreased exercise tolerance, abnormal breathing patterns including sleep apnea (episodes of no breathing during sleep), increased risk of lung infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis, and diseases caused by tobacco damage such as emphysema or lung cancer.

PREVENTION

Avoidance of smoking is the most important way to minimize the effect of aging on the lungs. Exercise and good overall fitness improve breathing capacity. Exercise tolerance can be affected by changes in the heart, blood vessels, muscles, and skeleton, as well as lung changes. However, studies have shown that exercise and training can improve the reserve capacity of the lungs.

Secondly, more than any other group the elderly need to be aware of the need to be up and about and should consciously try to increase deep breathing during illness or after surgery.

Continued use of the voice helps maintain overall vocal performance.

RELATED TOPICS

• Aging changes in organs, tissues, and cells
• Aging changes in the bones, muscles, and joints
• Aging changes in the heart and blood vessels
• Aging changes in vital signs

Review Date: 11/13/2006
Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Assistant Professor, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.