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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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 when 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.

Why a deep, dry cough is dangerous

A deep, dry cough is not a dangerous condition in itself, 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, obstructive pulmonary disease (eg, 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 deep dry cough

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 can 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: Rarely, 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 shortness of breath 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 can 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 tissue. 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 examinations to take

If you have a deep dry cough, especially if it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is recommended to consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate examinations. 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 abnormalities.

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 identify the allergens causing the cough.

Remedies

A deep, dry cough can be relieved using a variety of methods and remedies, including:

1. Cough syrups and preparations: There are various syrups and cough preparations available without a prescription that can help soothe 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 an indoor humidifier 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 alleviate a dry cough and relieve discomfort.

Which doctor to contact

In case of 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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Diseases

Olympus of Health both in the shower and in the fresh air

Contents

bronchitis

Fresh air is not contraindicated in both bronchitis and pneumonia, but, on the contrary, stimulates blood circulation in the bronchial mucosa

Natalia Polyakova

Head of the therapeutic day hospital, pulmonologist

Many well-known diseases are surrounded by so many myths and disputes that it is better not to try to understand them. But we’ll try. Bronchitis is one of the most common respiratory diseases. And today we are analyzing the mythology of bronchitis with the help of the head of the therapeutic day hospital, pulmonologist at the Olympus Zdorovya Family Medicine Center (experience – 15 years), Ph.D. Natalia Polyakova.

Bronchitis is not contagious

This disease is not viral and is not transmitted to others. But if bronchitis, as a complication, was caused by a virus (for example, respiratory syncytial or rhinovirus), then during the incubation period – 5-10 days (except for the influenza virus, where this period is a day) a person can infect others.

Cough and fever are the main objective signs of bronchitis

Temperature is not the main indicator. You can endure bronchitis without fever, with subfebrile values ​​(up to 38 degrees) or higher. A dry paroxysmal cough is possible, which after a while becomes wet.

But the main features are auscultation data. The patient’s breathing becomes hard, and when bronchospasm occurs, dry whistling rales appear. Therefore, it is very important to consult a doctor in time, and not to make a diagnosis on your own.

Antibiotics are essential in the treatment of bronchitis

Antibiotics can be dispensed with. It all depends on the etiology of the disease. If the cause is a viral infection, then antiviral therapy is used first. If bronchospasm occurs, then bronchodilator drugs are used. But if there are no significant improvements on days 4-5, leukocytes, stab neutrophils, and ESR are elevated in the general blood test, antibiotics should be prescribed.

To start treatment of bronchitis with antibiotics, bacteriological culture is required

Yes, ideally, it is necessary to do a bacteriological culture of sputum for microflora and determine the sensitivity of the antibiotic to it. But this analysis is carried out for a rather long time (up to 10 days), and often there is no time to wait for the result without prescribing antibiotics. Therefore, if there are indications for prescribing antibiotics, then most often starting antibiotic therapy is prescribed and observation is carried out. After culture results are obtained, treatment is adjusted if necessary.

In treatment, the main thing is “to cough up”

If there is sputum, then mucolytic drugs are needed to remove it from the bronchi. If there is no sputum, then they are not needed. Otherwise, there will be excessive irritation of the bronchi, which can lead to complications. With a dry paroxysmal cough, antitussive drugs can be used.

Exacerbations of chronic bronchitis are inevitable

No, they can be prevented. For example, Olympus of Health has special preventive programs both for patients with chronic diseases of the respiratory system and for those who have had the disease. Usually they include kinesiotherapy (a variant of exercise therapy, when the treatment factor is training on simulators, exercises with various devices), individual “breathing” training with an instructor and a series of health and physiotherapy procedures that are selected individually.