Lisa M. Cannon M.D

  As countries around the world eagerly await the inoculation of their citizens from any of the COVID-19 vaccines out there, governments still urge everyone to wear face masks and follow social distancing protocols in order to manage the current outbreak. Over time, we have seen different types of face mask products in markets, online ads, and on TV. According to Dr. Lisa M. Cannon, M.D., the type of mask you wear does impact the chances of you contracting the disease. Image source: wsj.com Let’s begin with the most common mask used around the world, the medical mask. Cheap but disposable, medical masks were previously used in medical situations inside a hospital or clinic. But today, they are one of the top choices for face mask users. While it is resistant to fluid and provides wearers protection from large bacterial droplets, it is very constricting. It wasn’t designed for prolonged use so it can get uncomfortable. Image source: the-scientist.com The N95 mask is conside...

  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the CDC recommends every individual, both sick and healthy, to wear a mask to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Many types of face coverings exist, and each one of them has different levels of effectiveness.  Image source: hackensackmeridianhealth.org A person carrying COVID-19 can spread the virus through droplets by sneezing, coughing, and talking, especially when they are not wearing any form of face covering. Face masks are supposed to cover the nose and the mouth in order to block droplets from spreading. Cloth or fabric masks can be washed and reused. However, these get wet and dirty more easily compared to other masks, says Lisa M. Cannon, M.D. Health care professionals and individuals accompanying sick loved ones in the hospital or  other medical facilities are required to wear N95 masks. These masks filter out 95 percent of liquids and particles that have a chance of reaching the mouth and the nose. Some ...

As the world tries to fight off COVID-19 and find solutions to eradicate the virus, it is a good idea to boost the immune system while on quarantine. Instead of falling prey to cabin fever, do these tips to increase lung capacity. Image source: webmd.com Image source: wuwm.com Learn to breathe . Many are still clueless about the proper way of breathing. When inhaling, concentrate on expanding the diaphragm. Here, the stomach gets bigger as one inhales air right into the end of the lungs. As a person exhales, their stomach becomes smaller. Eat foods that are rich in antioxidants . One’s lung health is dependent on their diet, shares Lisa M. Cannon, M.D. Foods like fruits, vegetables, walnuts, almonds, pecans, and tuna are great for the body. Drink more water . Lung health is anchored on proper nutrition, and proper nutrition includes better water intake. It’s important to keep the lungs moist to avoid dryness. Drinking water ensures that the mucosal li...