Doctors warn about lung illness attributed to bacteria in showers and hot baths

CLEVELAND, OH (WOIO) – Doctors are now warning people about an illness difficult to diagnose that you get from a warm bath or a hot shower.

While it’s becoming more common, this is an illness that remains a challenge to diagnose, doctors still have so much to learn about it. It’s called non-tuberculous mycobacteria disease or NTM.  We’re talking a disease that feels like asthma, but, it’s really micro-ogranisms from water, that when turned to steam can breed in some people’s lungs.

I know it well, I suffered it and will never forget the feeling of losing my breath more everyday, Youngstown Pulmonologist, Dr. Nicholas Proia will never forget it either, mine was the first case of it he ever saw.  He pulls up CT scans of what it looks like as in invades the lungs, murky images, “when you inhale something that your body reacts badly to this is what it looks like…” he explains. In recalling my case, he says, “it was getting worse. ..I was substantially concerned.”

That was 13 years ago just when researchers were discovering the illness caused by the tiniest micro-organisms, then believed only found in  hot tub steam, dubbed hot tub lung. Now though, experts are warning about it being picked up in the average shower. Dr. Proia in agreement, “those tiny tiny bacteria stay suspended in the atmosphere because of their size, that small, you can inhale them…they get deep, deep into the lungs…”

For most, believe it or not the critters are not a problem. But, for those who are unknowingly allergic to the bacteria, it causes potentially lethal lung inflammation that can slowly take your breath away. While my case was caught in time and heavy antibiotics restored my lung capacity, more people than ever are getting infected, and there’s worry not enough doctors know enough about it.

Another patient out of New York, Katie Keating went to several doctors complaining of the alarming symptoms being out of breath, having a constant cough and rapidly losing weight before she got an NTM diagnosis and treatment.

Then, there’s Mary Lou Area, from Texas, infected with NTM so severly back in 2010 she has to use a special device to help clear her lungs regulary. Ironically,  she believes she got sick while trying to feel better, “I would stand in the shower for hours. You know, because when I’m upset, that’s what I do…I take a hot, hot steamy shower.”

And a recent study shows it’s middle age to older women who are taller and thinner who are most susceptible, but no one knows exactly why. Experts do know though, the more treated our water is, the more of this particular bacteria there is. While other pathogens are killed by things like chlorine, mycobacteria survives and thrives. It’s so resiliant, Virginia Tech reseacher Dr. Joe Falkinham estimates it’s present in 70 percent of U.S. households, which explains the estimate of nearly 30 thousand new cases of non tuberculous micobacteria  disease in the U.S. each year.

While strangely enough, contaminated water is safe to drink, even cook with, people like Mary Lou and Katie who  know, don’t take their chances. No more showers, and sticking with bottled water, which Dr. Proia says is just smart even when you feel recovered, “…if you expose yourself again you will get it again it’s not as if you’re cured from it …or vaccinated against it…it will get you again.”

There are arious treatments for NTM, most requiring several months if not years of antibiotics, and some patients require surgery to remove damaged portions of their lungs.

Download the Cleveland 19 News app. 

Copyright 2016 WOIO. All rights reserved.

Can Someone Please Tell Me Why Taking A Shower Makes Me Cough?

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Can Someone Please Tell Me Why Taking A Shower Makes Me Cough?

A MyCOPDTeam Member
asked a question 💭

I have a difficult time in the morning with puffers and meds, breakfast and a shower as the coughing makes me vomit and then I lose everything. Learning to deal with all of this is quite a load and I am feeling a bit down today. Thanks for responses in advance.

Last of 23 replies

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I think maybe the heat and moisture from a shower works to loosen phlegm and stimulates coughing I would try a lukewarm shower then breakfast.DAH

posted May 6, 2017

I have had that problem at times expecially in the shower. I think the humidity of the bathroom causes the coughing. Maybe you could take your shower before meds or in the evening. I found that spacing out my meds was better for me. Some are taken with food some are empty stomach I even have one that I set my alarm at 3:00am and take. That one has so many things that don’t jive with other meds, caffien, and vitamins. Be sure to read the info sheet you get with your perscriptions and ask your pharmisist if your not sure. Sorry my spelling is horrible and I can’t find spell check on this laptop!😊

posted May 11, 2017

These posts have been very helpful. I take showers ’cause they help clean my sinuses. Nice to know how copd also affects others. I knew I had to keep door open just by trial and error. This is going to be so useful ’cause I’m new at all this.

posted May 16, 2017

I was told to not take too warm of a shower because it can make you cough harder and make it causes shortness of breath. I was told to keep the bathroom door slightly open to allow some of the steam to escape. After I was told this I got to thinking back and realized that was what my problem was. I used to love a nice hot shower, but now they are another thing COPD has taken away from me

posted May 9, 2017

i think they should put our meds inhalers etc in an electronic cigarette we would all comply readily ! lol

posted May 11, 2017

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What should I do if I have a severe cough with choking?

Severe cough with choking is a symptom that can be associated with various diseases of the respiratory system. At the first manifestations, it is necessary to consult a doctor for diagnosis and prescribing a course of treatment. Do not self-medicate, as this can lead to a deterioration in the condition. In the article you will find information about the causes of cough with choking and methods of treatment.

Violent cough with choking is a very unpleasant condition that can occur at any time. It often indicates the presence of diseases of the respiratory system, such as bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma and others. Allergies, bad habits or weakened immunity can also serve as reasons.

In addition, a severe cough with choking may occur due to hypothermia, drug abuse or overwork.

When there is a severe cough with choking, urgent action must be taken. In this article, we will tell you how to act in such a situation and what actions will help improve your well-being.

What to do if you have a severe cough with choking?

Severe cough with choking may be a sign of a number of diseases such as bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma and others. Against the background of such a condition, it is necessary to observe a number of measures for first aid.

• Call an ambulance. If a cough with choking does not resolve quickly, do not waste time and call an ambulance. This is especially important if the patient has periods of breath holding or other signs of an asthmatic attack.
• Stay calm. Severe cough with choking may cause panic in the patient. It is important to remain calm and help him control his breathing.
• Provide access to fresh air. Opening windows or moving into the garden or outside will help eliminate respiratory failure and improve gas exchange.
• Use inhalers. If the patient has a special inhaler, use it.
• Do not give liquids or food to the sick person. Choking cough may lead to a gag reflex, which may worsen the condition. Do not give the sick person food or liquids until the ambulance arrives.

Remember, with a strong cough with choking, speed of reaction is the key to success. Providing first aid can save a person’s life. Do your best to help the sick!

Assess cough symptoms

Cough is one of the most common symptoms of respiratory disease. It can occur for many reasons, from allergies to infections. But when a cough is accompanied by severe choking and difficulty breathing, it can be a sign of a serious illness, such as asthma or COPD.

It is important to be able to assess the symptoms of a cough and see a doctor promptly if they persist or worsen. The following signs may indicate the severity of the cough:

1. Duration of symptoms: if the cough does not go away for more than two weeks, it may be a sign of a chronic illness. A few days of coughing after a cold is normal, but if it doesn’t stop, you should see a doctor.
2. Which cough: dry or wet. If the cough lasts for several days and there is pain or difficulty in breathing, then this may be a sign of bronchitis or pneumonia.
3. Difficulty breathing: this is the most serious symptom and requires immediate medical attention. If the cough is accompanied by difficulty breathing, call an ambulance.

It is important to remember that coughing is just a symptom that can occur for many reasons. To identify them, you need to see a doctor and undergo an examination.

Cause of cough Associated symptoms

If you or your child have symptoms of a cough, you should see a doctor. Only he can determine the cause of the cough and prescribe the correct treatment.

Cover yourself with a warm blanket

If a cough with severe choking occurs, immediately take a calm position and calm down. The cause of suffocation may be related to an asthma attack or other diseases of the respiratory system.

One way to reduce the feeling of suffocation is to cover yourself with a warm blanket. This will help keep the heat in the body and reduce the tension of the respiratory system.

It is also important to provide fresh air in the room where the sick person is. To do this, you can open windows or doors for a short time.

If the cough persists and the choking does not decrease within a few minutes, an ambulance should be called.

Use moist air

One of the best ways to relieve a severe choking cough is to use moist air. This can be done in several ways.

• Humidifier. This device creates comfortable conditions indoors, moistening air. It is important to remember to change the filters and clean the humidifier to avoid bacterial growth.
• Wet compresses. Soak a towel in warm water, wring it out and apply it to your chest or back for a few minutes. This will help moisturize the skin and alleviate coughing.

It is also useful to simply ventilate the room, especially before going to bed. Cold air can irritate your airways, so close windows and doors before bed to keep the room warm and humid.

Try nasal irrigation

If coughing is accompanied by choking, nasal irrigation may be required. This method helps get rid of droplets, allergens, and other irritants that can cause a bad cough.

There are several ways to rinse the nose, one of them is the use of special saline solutions, which can be purchased at the pharmacy. For the procedure, you need to tilt your head over the sink, pour the solution into the lower nostril and let it flow out of the upper one. Then do the same with the other nostril.

Oral douche, sea salt solution, saline solution, plain warm boiled water or herbal tinctures can also be used. It is important to remember that you need to rinse your nose correctly so as not to injure the mucous membranes and not attract a new infection.

Nasal irrigation is not a panacea for choking cough. If symptoms persist after the procedure, be sure to seek medical attention.

Take a warm drink

In the case of a severe cough with choking, taking a warm drink can help relieve tension and irritation in the throat and increase sputum production.

Warm tea with honey and lemon is most effective for soothing irritated mucous membranes in the throat and bronchi.

You can also try warm milk with honey or cinnamon, which will also soften your throat and soothe your cough.

To enhance the effect of the drink taken, you can add a little ginger or black pepper.

But it is worth remembering that any drink should be warm, not hot, so as not to cause even more irritation of the throat and not to aggravate coughing and choking.

Try hot showers

Hot showers can help relieve severe coughs and reduce airway constriction. Warm water on the chest and back can help relax the muscles and reduce the frequency and strength of the cough.

In addition, hot steam can help open the airways, which reduces choking. To increase the effectiveness of the shower, it is recommended to add drops of mint, eucalyptus or rosemary essential oils. These oils have an analgesic effect and help clear the airways.

It is important to remember that a hot shower is not a substitute for medical treatment, and if symptoms persist, a doctor should be consulted. Hot showers should also be avoided when the body temperature is elevated and other conditions where heat is dangerous to health.

• Hot showers help soothe coughs and reduce choking
• Warm water on the chest and back reduces the frequency and severity of coughs
• Hot steam opens the airways and reduces choking
• Adding essential oils improves the effectiveness of showers for coughing
• Gor cell shower should be avoided at elevated body temperature and other conditions where heat is hazardous to health

No smoking and avoiding fumes

Smoking is one of the main causes of respiratory diseases. Smoking injures the mucous membrane of the throat and lungs, disrupts their work and impairs the exchange of gases in the body. If you experience a severe cough with choking, it is especially important to observe the ban on smoking. In addition, smokers should avoid contact with other people’s smoke, as smoke contains many harmful substances.

Smoke emissions can be a source of various harmful substances. Paying attention to indoor and outdoor air quality is one of the important aspects of respiratory disease prevention. A number of measures help reduce the harm from exposure to smoke and other air pollution:

• Avoid crowded places where people smoke;
• Air filters in rooms, especially if people smoke there;
• Take vitamin C to support immunity and respiratory protection;
• Regularly ventilate the rooms where you are;
• Avoid outdoor sports during periods of poor environmental conditions.

In general, maintaining a healthy lifestyle (healthy diet, moderate physical activity, exercise) helps to strengthen the protection of the respiratory tract and reduces the likelihood of choking cough.

Use an inhaler

An inhaler is a medical device that allows you to inhale. Using an inhaler is an effective way to deal with coughing and choking.

Before you start using the inhaler, you must read the instructions that came with the device. The inhaler can work in air or with medicines.

To carry out inhalation with medicines, it is necessary to pour them into the inhaler and set the device correctly. Next, you need to put on a mask on your face and start inhalation.

The time of inhalation depends on the recommendations of the doctor and can be from several minutes to half an hour. After inhalation, you must remain calm and do not smoke for half an hour.

When using the inhaler in air, wear a mask and breathe through the device. This will help soften the cough and reduce choking.

Using an inhaler is an effective way to deal with coughing and choking. However, before you start using the device, you should consult a doctor and read the instructions.

Tidy up the humidity at home

If the cough is accompanied by suffocation, it is important to ensure that the internal environment in the house is at the proper level. One of the factors affecting health is the level of humidity in the air. To bring it into order at home, you can use the following tools:

• Humidifiers. For this, there are special devices that can increase the level of humidity inside the living space. They work on the principle of water evaporation or cold ultrasound. In addition, such humidifiers can kill bacteria in the air.
• Wet towels and water pots. To increase the humidity level for a while, you can leave pots of water or wet towels in the room. The water will evaporate and humidify the air.
• Frequent ventilation. Ventilate the room to draw out excess moisture. Regular airing of the room helps to ensure that the humidity does not increase.

It should be noted that the level of air humidity can also be influenced by factors such as the location of the house or apartment, climatic conditions, the season of the year, etc. Humidity should be monitored with a hygrometer or a special device. Thus, it is possible to take timely measures to humidify the air.

Take medication

In case of severe cough with choking, see a doctor and undergo a complete examination. Treatment will be prescribed depending on the cause of the cough. In most cases, cough medicines are taken to relieve symptoms and soothe the cough.

For respiratory infections, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral drugs to fight the pathogens.

Glucocorticosteroids such as dexamethasone or prednisolone may be given to relieve swelling and inflammation in the airways.

It is important that you follow the instructions when taking your medicines and do not exceed the dosage indicated on the medicines. Also, you should not interrupt the treatment yourself, even if the cough symptoms have improved, as this can lead to a relapse of the disease.

When taking several medicines, the possibility of interaction between them must be taken into account and consult a doctor or pharmacist about the possibility of simultaneous use. Some medicines can cause side effects, such as drowsiness or dizziness, so do not engage in hazardous activities, such as driving, until you are sure that the medicine does not cause these side effects.

• Antitussives: codeine, dextromethorphan, butamirate, guaifenesin, etc.
• Antibiotics: azithromycin, amoxicillin, levofloxacin, ceftriaxone, etc.
• Antivirals: oseltamivir, zanamivir, remdesivir, etc.
• Glucocorticosteroids: dexamethasone, prednisolone, betamethasone, etc.

Consult a physician

9 0002 If you are experiencing severe choking cough, it is always best to consult your doctor. With such symptoms, there may be several possible causes, and only a specialist can determine exactly what caused your condition and how to treat it.

When should I see a doctor? If you experience a severe cough that is accompanied by additional symptoms such as choking, fever, weakness, or chest pain, contact your doctor immediately.

If your symptoms are not as bad and you can breathe and talk, but you still have a bad cough, you can make an appointment with a GP. The appointment will not take long, and the doctor will be able to prescribe treatment or give recommendations.

What is important to tell your doctor? If you have gone to the doctor because of a cough, it is important to give him as much information as possible. Talk about blood pressure, body temperature, general health. Given all the symptoms, the doctor will be able to prescribe the appropriate treatment and give useful tips that will help you overcome the cough faster.

Conclusion : If you develop a severe cough with choking, it is always best to see a doctor. If the cause of the cough is not clear, an examination should be carried out to exclude serious diseases. He will help to understand a difficult situation and provide professional assistance.

Avoid allergens

An allergic reaction can be one of the causes of choking cough. People prone to allergies should avoid contact with possible allergens. Among them may be:

• Plant pollen
• Dust in the apartment and office
• Pets
• Mold

To reduce the amount of pollen in the apartment, you can regularly ventilate the room and use special air purification products. It is also important to keep regular cleaning and avoid the accumulation of debris and dust in the apartment or office.

If you have pets, be especially careful. Avoid contact with them during an allergy symptom flare-up and make up for the lack of contact with plenty of outdoor time.

Molds can hide on surfaces and pose a risk to human health. Wash them using special detergents and use good hygiene to reduce the risk of coughing and other symptoms.

Normalize your sleep pattern

If you have a severe cough with choking, it is very important to normalize your sleep pattern. Insufficient sleep can exacerbate symptoms and lead to complications.

Try to go to bed at the same time and maintain a regular sleep schedule. The body will quickly get used to a certain regimen and it will be easier to cope with the stress caused by coughing.

Also pay attention to sleep conditions. The room should be cool, quiet and almost devoid of bright light. Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed as they can interfere with sleep quality.

If you have trouble falling asleep due to a bad cough, try using a pillow to support your head and neck in an upright position. This will reduce coughing and make breathing easier.

Eat warmer food

When coughing with choking, it is important to eat warmer food. Such foods can help soothe irritation in the throat and airways and reduce coughing.

Try warm soups, some kind of warm drink, such as tea with honey and lemon, hot milk with honey, a banana and milk cocktail. You can also add spices to food: ginger, cinnamon, pepper.

Remember that eating warm food is not a substitute for treatment, it is only one way to alleviate the symptoms of choking cough. Be sure to seek medical attention for expert advice on treating and diagnosing the cause of your choking cough.

Try massage

Massage is one way to improve your well-being when you have a severe cough with choking. Massage can help relieve tension in the chest muscles, open the bronchi and improve breathing.

If you have a severe cough with choking, you can try massage. To do this, you need to lie on your back, relax and ask someone to massage your chest. Massage in this area should be carried out with soft circular movements so as not to cause pain.

You can also massage your back using gentle movements along the spine. This will help relax the muscles and improve blood circulation in this area. Massage can be done several times a day, but this method should not be abused so as not to cause pain in the muscles.

Massage can be combined with other methods of improving health for severe choking cough, such as a hot drink, steam inhalation treatment, topical pain relief and inflammation.

Avoid stress and fatigue

Stress and fatigue can worsen symptoms of choking cough. With a strong cough, a balanced daily routine is necessary. It is necessary to reduce the number of classes and focus on rest.

To reduce stress, we recommend:

• Practice relaxation. Meditation, deep breathing, yoga and other techniques can help reduce stress and improve coughing.
• Enough sleep. In order for the immune system to work properly, it is necessary to rest at least 7 hours a day.
• Eat right. Nutrition should be rich in vitamins and minerals to make the immune system more stable. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can aggravate cough symptoms.

To reduce fatigue:

• Try not to overexert your body. Only perform tasks that do not cause fatigue or pain.
• Plan your day. Organize your time so that you can rest and complete tasks equally.
• Exercise daily. Light physical activity will help reduce fatigue and improve respiratory function.

Maintaining a daily routine and taking care of your health are the key points in the treatment of choking cough.

Q&A:

What should I do if I experience choking during a coughing fit?

Immediately call an ambulance before you manage to stop the coughing attack on your own.

How to hint to a colleague that he needs to pay attention to his cough?

It is better to remind about the need to take precautions and tell about your methods of treating cough.

Is it possible to get rid of cough with choking with the help of traditional methods?

Folk remedies help only as an additional therapy. When coughing with choking, you should definitely consult a doctor.

Can a cough with choking indicate any disease?

Yes, choking cough can be one of the symptoms of diseases such as bronchial asthma or obstructive bronchitis.

Is it possible to exercise when coughing with choking?

No, when coughing with choking, it is better to lie down and not overwork. Physical exercise can make symptoms worse.

In what cases does a simple chest massage help to get rid of a cough with choking?

A simple chest massage can only help with coughs caused by congested secretions in the lungs. In other cases, it is better to consult a doctor.

When should you take antibiotics if you have a cough with choking?

Antibiotics should only be taken if the choking cough is caused by a bacterial infection, not a viral one.

Attention to mouth and throat hygiene

Mouth and throat hygiene is an important aspect of a healthy lifestyle and the prevention of choking cough. For proper oral hygiene, brush your teeth daily using a special toothbrush and toothpaste. Also, rinsing your mouth after eating or drinking drinks will help protect against discomfort and odor.

Throat hygiene is also important for health and can prevent choking coughs. To do this, rinse your throat daily with boiled water or use special solutions for gargling. It is important to remember that the virus and bacteria can be on hands and other objects, so wash your hands regularly with soap and avoid contact with people who are sick.

To prevent choking cough, it is necessary to monitor the hygiene of the mouth and throat, using products to avoid bacteria and infections. In addition, it is recommended to eat fresh fruits and vegetables every day, as well as drink more water to support the body’s immune system.

Related videos:

Deep dry cough – causes of the disease, which doctor treats, diagnosis, prevention and treatment

Description

Deep dry cough is characterized as a cough without sputum or with very little sputum. It often sounds deep and hoarse, sometimes accompanied by a feeling of irritation or itching in the throat or chest. The cough can be persistent and last for a long time.

A deep, dry cough can be caused by a variety of causes, including:

1. Viral infections: such as the common cold or flu, which are often accompanied by a dry cough in the initial stages of the disease.

2. Allergies: Cough may be a reaction to allergens in the environment such as dust, plant pollen, mold or pets.

3. Asthma: A deep, dry cough may be one of the symptoms of asthma, a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways.

4. Reaction to irritants: such as smoke, chemicals or polluted air, which can cause coughing if inhaled.

5. Drugs: Some drugs, such as ACE (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme) inhibitors, can cause dry cough as a side effect.

If a deep dry cough persists or is accompanied by other illnesses, it is important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Causes of a deep, dry cough

A deep, dry cough is not in itself a dangerous condition, but may be a sign of an underlying disease or a condition that can be serious. Here are a few possible reasons why a deep, dry cough can be dangerous:

1. Worsening of the underlying disease: A deep, dry cough may be a symptom of a more serious disease such as pneumonia, an obstructive pulmonary disease (such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), or other respiratory problems. If the cause of the cough is undetermined and it continues or worsens, it is important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

2. Risk of Complications: Persistent or intense, deep, dry cough may irritate or damage the airways, which may increase the risk of infections, voice disturbances, increased chest pressure, or other complications.

3. Limitation of daily activities: Persistent coughing can cause discomfort and interfere with normal activities, including sleep, work, and communication. This can affect quality of life and psychological well-being.

4. Lack of oxygen: If a deep, dry cough is accompanied by shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, this may be a sign of insufficient oxygen supply to the body. In such cases, medical attention is required.

Physiological causes of a deep dry cough

A deep dry cough can be caused by a number of physiological causes. Here are some of them:

1. Respiratory tract irritation: Exposure to irritants such as smoke, polluted air, chemicals or allergens may irritate the respiratory tract and cause a dry cough.

2. Dryness of mucous membranes: Lack of moisture in the environment or dry indoor air can lead to dryness of the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract. This can cause irritation and dry cough.

3. Foreign Objects: Small objects, dust or particles that enter the respiratory tract can cause a dry cough in an attempt by the body to expel them.

4. Vocal cord tension: Intensive use of the voice or prolonged speaking may overexert the vocal cords and cause a dry cough.

5. Reaction to changes in air temperature: Sudden changes in air temperature, especially when cold air is inhaled, may cause a dry cough in some people.

6. Dry throat: Some people may experience dry throat, which can cause a dry cough, especially at night or on waking.

Pathological causes of deep dry cough

Deep dry cough can also be caused by various pathological causes. Here are some of them:

1. Asthma: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that can lead to a dry and hoarse cough, especially at night or after exercise. Cough may be accompanied by shortness of breath, shortness of breath and chest tightness.

2. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): COPD is a progressive lung disease that is usually associated with smoking. It leads to narrowing of the airways, often accompanied by a dry cough, poor lung function, shortness of breath, and trouble breathing.

3. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): GERD is a condition in which the contents of the stomach rise back up into the esophagus, causing mucosal irritation. This can lead to a dry cough, especially after eating or lying down.

4. Drugs: Some drugs, such as ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors used to treat high blood pressure, can cause a dry cough as a side effect.

5. Interstitial lung diseases: This is a group of diseases characterized by inflammation and scarring of lung tissue. Dry cough may be one of the symptoms of these diseases, such as idiopathic fibrosing alveolitis or sarcoidosis.

6. Pneumonia: Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs that can cause a dry cough and then progress to a cough with sputum and other symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath and chest pain.

7. Lung cancer: In rare cases, a dry cough can be a symptom of lung cancer, especially in the advanced stages of the disease.

Accompanying symptoms

A deep, dry cough may be accompanied by various symptoms, which may vary depending on the cause of the cough. Some of the typical accompanying symptoms may include:

1. Difficulty breathing: Shortness of breath or labored breathing may accompany a deep, dry cough, especially if it is caused by a lung disease such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

2. Chest pain or discomfort: Some people may experience chest pain or discomfort with a deep, dry cough, especially with lung disease or inflammation.

3. Fatigue: Persistent or prolonged dry cough may cause fatigue and weakness, especially if it interferes with normal sleep or daily activities.

4. Weakness or loss of appetite: Some people may experience general weakness or loss of appetite due to a deep dry cough, especially in chronic or systemic diseases.

5. Wheezing or wheezing in the chest: The presence of wheezing or wheezing in the chest may be associated with airway narrowing or obstruction, which is often seen in asthma or other lung conditions.

6. Fever: If a deep, dry cough is accompanied by a fever or fever, this may indicate an infectious disease such as pneumonia or influenza.

7. Weight Loss: Rarely, a deep, dry cough accompanied by weight loss may be a sign of a more serious condition, such as lung cancer.

What are the scenarios

The scenarios for a deep dry cough can be varied and depend on the underlying cause of the cough and related factors. Here are some possible scenarios:

1. Self-limiting cough: In some cases, a deep dry cough may be temporary and self-limiting, especially if caused by physiological causes such as irritation of the airways or dry air. In such cases, the cough may disappear on its own or after appropriate measures are taken to alleviate the symptoms.

2. Worsening cough: If a deep, dry cough is caused by an underlying condition such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or pneumonia, it may continue and worsen over time. In such cases, it is necessary to consult a doctor for adequate treatment and control of the condition.

3. Occurrence of other symptoms: In some diseases, a deep, dry cough may be one of the first symptoms, followed by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, weakness, fever, loss of appetite, or weight loss. This may indicate the progression of the underlying disease or the development of complications.

4. Spread of Infection: If a deep, dry cough is caused by an infectious disease such as influenza or pneumonia, the infection may spread to other parts of the respiratory system or to organs and tissues in the body. This may require special treatment and supervision by medical professionals.

5. Favorable prognosis: In cases where a deep dry cough is caused by temporary or mild factors, such as temporary irritation or dryness of the mucous membranes, the prognosis is usually favorable. If appropriate measures are taken to relieve the symptoms and eliminate the cause of the cough, the symptoms may disappear completely.

What diseases cause deep dry cough

Deep dry cough can be associated with various diseases and conditions. Some of the more common illnesses that can cause a deep, dry cough include:

1. Bronchial Asthma: A chronic inflammatory disease of the airways characterized by bouts of shortness of breath, shortness of breath and dry cough.

2. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A progressive disease caused by airway obstruction and usually associated with smoking. COPD can present with a dry cough, shortness of breath, and increased fatigue.

3. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): A disease in which the contents of the stomach rise up into the esophagus, causing irritation of the mucous membrane. GERD can be accompanied by a deep, dry cough, especially after eating or when lying down.

4. Pneumonia: Inflammation of the lungs, usually caused by infection. Symptoms of pneumonia can include a dry cough, fever, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

5. Interstitial lung diseases: A group of diseases characterized by inflammation and scarring of lung tissues. These diseases can cause a deep, dry cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

6. SARS and flu: Respiratory viral infections such as colds and flu can cause dry cough in the initial stages of the disease.

7. Lung Cancer: In advanced lung cancer, a deep, dry cough may be one of the symptoms, along with other signs such as hemoptysis, weight loss, and weakness.

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What tests to do

If you have a deep dry cough, especially if it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is recommended to see a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate tests. Specific investigations will depend on the suspected cause of the cough, the patient’s medical history, and the clinical examination. Some general tests that may be recommended include:

1. Physical examination: The doctor will perform a physical examination, including auscultation of the lungs and heart, to check for signs of inflammation, obstruction, or other abnormalities.

2. Laboratory blood tests: A complete blood count can help identify infections or inflammation in the body.

3. Chest x-ray: A chest x-ray can help identify changes in the lungs, such as inflammation, infection, or swelling.

4. Computed tomography (CT) of the chest: A CT scan provides more detailed images of the chest and helps identify structural abnormalities, tumors, or other pathologies.

5. Lung Function Tests: These tests help evaluate lung function, including air volume, breathing rate, and the ability of the lungs to deliver oxygen to the blood. They can help determine the presence and degree of airway obstruction.

6. Bronchoscopy: This is a procedure in which a doctor inserts a flexible tube with a camera (bronchoscope) through the mouth or nose to look at the bronchi and lungs. This allows you to identify structural abnormalities, tumors or inflammation in the airways.

7. Allergy Tests: If an allergic reaction is suspected, special tests may be done to look for the allergens causing the cough.

Treatments

Deep, dry coughs can be relieved using a variety of methods and products, including:

1. Cough syrups and preparations: There are various cough syrups and preparations available without a prescription that can help alleviate and relieve a dry cough. Some contain dextomethorphan, which reduces the activity of the cough center in the brain, or guaifenesin, which helps thin secretions in the airways.

2. Moist air: Using a humidifier indoors or taking a hot shower can help moisten the mucous membranes in the airways and relieve dry coughs.

3. Drinking enough liquids: Hydrating the body by drinking enough water and other liquids helps to soften the mucous membranes and relieve dryness in the airways.

4. Lozenges and chewing gum: Sugar-free lozenges and chewing gum may stimulate salivation and moisten the throat, which may temporarily relieve a dry cough.

5. Avoidance of irritants: Avoid smoke, allergens, air pollution and other irritants that can aggravate dry cough.

6. Chest Warming: Using a heating pad or heated towel on the chest can help relieve dry coughs and relieve discomfort.

Which doctor to contact

If you have a deep dry cough, it is recommended to consult a general practitioner or family doctor. They may conduct an initial assessment, ask questions about symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical examination.

Depending on the suspected cause of the cough and the results of the initial evaluation, the physician may recommend consultation or referral to other specialists, including:

1. Pulmonologist (lung doctor): If chronic lung disease such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or interstitial lung disease is suspected, a consultation with a pulmonologist may be required.

2. Otorhinolaryngologist (ENT): If a cough is suspected to be caused by problems with the throat, nose, or airways, including GERD, reflux cough, or sinusitis, an ENT consultation may be required.

3. Infectionist: If a deep, dry cough is accompanied by signs of infection such as fever, chest pain, or worsening general condition, an infectious disease specialist may be consulted.

4. Allergist: If an allergic reaction or an allergic cough is suspected, the doctor may recommend a consultation with an allergist.

5. Oncologist: If a deep, dry cough persists, gets worse, or is accompanied by other worrisome symptoms such as hemoptysis, weight loss, or fatigue, a consultation with an oncologist may be required to rule out lung cancer or other malignancies.

It is important to seek professional advice and advice on the diagnosis and treatment of a deep dry cough.

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