ROCHELLE – Rochelle Community Hospital is marking National Respiratory Care Week by promoting awareness of lung health and respiratory care. The hospital treats common conditions such as asthma and COPD and encourages patients to follow prescribed medications, avoid irritants, and consider pulmonary rehabilitation. Advances in monitoring, telehealth, medications, and ventilator technology have improved care.
Jacqui Ranken, the hospital’s cardiopulmonary manager, says, “One of the biggest misconceptions for lung health is that only smokers get lung disease. Non-smokers can also develop a lung disease.”
Patients experiencing chronic cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, or frequent respiratory infections are advised to seek medical attention.
Ranken also stresses healthy habits, saying, “Quitting improves your lung function, circulation, and reduces even inflammation years after quitting,” and she recommends exercising daily and staying hydrated to support lung function.
