If you are a family member of someone with lung disease you may find that the first step is having them “admit to having a problem.”

Obviously, not all breathing problems can be prevented. Once breathing problems start, preventing future difficulties is often a lot easier then dealing with an acute crisis.

Avoiding pollution and second-hand smoke is important. Suburban and country air tends to be better than city air. Outdoor air tends to be better than indoor air. If allergens and large contaminants are a problem, a HEPA filter can be useful.