What is non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) disease. How can showering expose you to harmful bacteria. Who is most at risk for developing NTM lung infections. What are the symptoms of NTM disease. How is NTM diagnosed and treated. Can NTM be prevented.

Understanding Non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) Disease

Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) disease is a growing concern among health professionals. This lung illness, often misdiagnosed as asthma, is caused by microscopic organisms found in water that can breed in people’s lungs when inhaled as steam. Dr. Nicholas Proia, a pulmonologist from Youngstown, explains that these tiny bacteria remain suspended in the air due to their size, allowing them to be inhaled deep into the lungs.

While most people are not affected by these microorganisms, those who are unknowingly allergic to the bacteria can develop potentially lethal lung inflammation. This condition can gradually impair breathing capacity if left untreated.

Key Facts About NTM Disease:

• Caused by bacteria found in water, especially warm and treated water
• Can be inhaled through steam from showers, baths, and hot tubs
• Often misdiagnosed as asthma or other respiratory conditions
• Estimated 30,000 new cases in the U.S. each year
• Present in approximately 70% of U.S. households

The Surprising Source: Your Shower and Hot Tub

Initially, researchers believed NTM was primarily associated with hot tub steam, dubbing it “hot tub lung.” However, recent studies have shown that the average shower can also be a source of these harmful bacteria. Dr. Joseph Falkinham, a biology professor at Virginia Tech, estimates that NTM is present in 70% of U.S. households.

Why are showers and hot tubs ideal breeding grounds for NTM? These environments provide the perfect conditions for bacterial growth:

• Warm temperatures
• High humidity
• Treated water that kills other pathogens but allows NTM to thrive

Ironically, the more treated our water is, the more prevalent this particular bacteria becomes. While chlorine and other treatments kill many pathogens, mycobacteria are resilient and can survive these processes.

Identifying Those at Risk: Who is Most Susceptible to NTM?

Recent studies have shed light on the demographic most susceptible to NTM infections. Surprisingly, it’s not who you might expect.

High-Risk Group for NTM Infections:

• Middle-aged to older women
• Taller and thinner body types
• Individuals with pre-existing lung conditions

While the exact reasons for this susceptibility are not fully understood, researchers continue to investigate the connection between these factors and NTM infections. It’s important to note that anyone can potentially develop an NTM infection, regardless of age, gender, or body type.

Recognizing the Symptoms: When to Suspect NTM

NTM disease can be challenging to diagnose due to its similarity to other respiratory conditions. However, being aware of the symptoms can help in early detection and treatment.

Common Symptoms of NTM Disease:

• Persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Night sweats
• Chest pain

Katie Keating, a patient from New York, experienced several of these symptoms before receiving an NTM diagnosis. She visited multiple doctors, complaining of alarming symptoms such as being out of breath, having a constant cough, and rapidly losing weight. Her case highlights the importance of persistence in seeking a proper diagnosis when experiencing unexplained respiratory issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment: Navigating the Challenges of NTM

Diagnosing NTM can be complex, often requiring a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests. Dr. Proia describes the appearance of NTM in CT scans as murky images, indicating the body’s reaction to inhaling something it responds poorly to.

Diagnostic Methods for NTM:

1. Chest X-rays and CT scans
2. Sputum culture tests
3. Bronchoscopy
4. Blood tests

Once diagnosed, treatment for NTM typically involves a prolonged course of antibiotics. In some cases, treatment can last several months or even years. For severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged portions of the lungs.

Mary Lou Area, a patient from Texas, requires a special device to help clear her lungs regularly due to the severity of her NTM infection. Her case underscores the potential long-term impacts of the disease and the importance of ongoing management.

Prevention Strategies: Reducing Your Risk of NTM Exposure

While it’s challenging to completely eliminate the risk of NTM exposure, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of infection.

Tips for Minimizing NTM Exposure:

• Avoid prolonged exposure to steam in showers and baths
• Use ventilation fans in bathrooms to reduce humidity
• Clean and disinfect showerheads regularly
• Consider using bottled water for drinking and cooking
• Maintain hot water heaters at temperatures above 130°F (54°C)

It’s important to note that while contaminated water can pose a risk when inhaled as steam, it is generally safe to drink or cook with. However, some patients who have experienced NTM infections, like Mary Lou and Katie, choose to take extra precautions by avoiding showers and using bottled water.

The Growing Concern: Increasing Incidence of NTM

Healthcare professionals are becoming increasingly concerned about the rising number of NTM cases. Dr. Proia notes that more people than ever are getting infected, and there’s worry that not enough doctors are knowledgeable about the condition.

Several factors contribute to the growing incidence of NTM:

• Increased awareness and improved diagnostic techniques
• Changes in water treatment practices that favor NTM growth
• An aging population more susceptible to respiratory infections
• Potential environmental factors affecting lung health

As research continues, it’s crucial for both healthcare providers and the general public to be aware of NTM and its potential impacts on respiratory health.

Living with NTM: Long-Term Management and Considerations

For those diagnosed with NTM, managing the condition often becomes a long-term commitment. Dr. Proia emphasizes that even after successful treatment, patients remain susceptible to reinfection. “If you expose yourself again, you will get it again,” he warns. “It’s not as if you’re cured from it or vaccinated against it. It will get you again.”

Long-Term Management Strategies for NTM Patients:

• Regular follow-up appointments with pulmonologists
• Ongoing monitoring of lung function
• Adherence to prescribed antibiotic regimens
• Pulmonary rehabilitation exercises
• Lifestyle modifications to minimize exposure risks

Patients like Mary Lou Area have had to make significant changes to their daily routines to manage their condition. This may include using specialized devices for lung clearance, avoiding potential sources of reinfection, and maintaining a heightened awareness of respiratory symptoms.

While living with NTM can be challenging, many patients find that with proper management and care, they can maintain a good quality of life. Support groups and patient education programs can also play a crucial role in helping individuals cope with the long-term impacts of NTM.

Advancing Research: The Future of NTM Prevention and Treatment

As awareness of NTM disease grows, so does the focus on research to better understand, prevent, and treat this condition. Scientists and medical professionals are working on several fronts to address the challenges posed by NTM.

Current Areas of NTM Research:

• Developing more effective diagnostic tools
• Investigating new antibiotic combinations for treatment
• Studying the genetic factors that may influence susceptibility
• Exploring innovative water treatment methods to reduce NTM prevalence
• Investigating potential vaccines or preventive therapies

Dr. Joe Falkinham’s work at Virginia Tech is just one example of the ongoing research efforts. His studies on the prevalence of NTM in household water systems have provided valuable insights into the environmental factors contributing to NTM infections.

As research progresses, there’s hope for more targeted treatments and prevention strategies. This could lead to improved outcomes for patients and potentially reduce the incidence of NTM infections in the future.

Public Health Implications: Raising Awareness About NTM

The increasing prevalence of NTM disease has significant public health implications. As more cases are identified, there’s a growing need for widespread education and awareness campaigns.

Key Public Health Initiatives for NTM:

• Educating healthcare providers about NTM diagnosis and treatment
• Developing guidelines for water management in healthcare facilities
• Implementing public awareness campaigns about NTM risks
• Encouraging research funding for NTM studies
• Establishing support networks for NTM patients

By raising awareness about NTM, public health officials hope to improve early detection rates and reduce the impact of this disease on individuals and communities. This includes informing the public about potential risks associated with everyday activities like showering and using hot tubs.

Additionally, there’s a need for collaboration between various sectors, including healthcare, environmental agencies, and water management authorities, to address the complex issues surrounding NTM prevention and control.

The Global Perspective: NTM as an Emerging Health Concern

While much of the research on NTM has focused on cases in the United States, it’s important to recognize that this is a global health concern. NTM infections have been reported in countries around the world, with varying prevalence rates and species distributions.

Global Considerations for NTM:

• Differences in NTM species prevalence across geographic regions
• Variations in water treatment practices and their impact on NTM growth
• Climate change effects on environmental conditions favoring NTM
• Challenges in diagnosis and treatment in resource-limited settings
• International collaboration for research and data sharing

Understanding the global landscape of NTM infections is crucial for developing comprehensive strategies to address this emerging health threat. It also highlights the need for international cooperation in research, surveillance, and public health initiatives.

As our understanding of NTM disease continues to evolve, it’s clear that this condition represents a significant challenge in the field of respiratory health. From the surprising source of infection in our daily showers to the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, NTM disease requires attention from healthcare providers, researchers, and the public alike.

By staying informed about the risks, symptoms, and prevention strategies associated with NTM, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their respiratory health. Meanwhile, ongoing research and public health initiatives offer hope for improved management and prevention of NTM infections in the future.

As we continue to unravel the mysteries surrounding NTM disease, it’s crucial to approach this health concern with a balance of awareness and perspective. While the potential risks associated with everyday activities like showering may seem alarming, it’s important to remember that for most people, these activities remain safe and beneficial. The key lies in being informed, recognizing potential symptoms, and seeking prompt medical attention when necessary.

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.

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Copyright 2016 WOIO. All rights reserved.

Is Your Shower Making You Sick?

Local News

October 9, 2012 / 10:15 PM
/ CBS Texas

DALLAS (CBSDFW. COM) – A hot, steamy shower can feel great, but you may be getting covered in a daily dose of bacteria that could make you sick.

Take off any showerhead and you can see the bacteria. It’s called nontuberculous mycobacteria, or NTM.

Dallas resident Nancy Harris was exposed to the bacteria.  She was already diagnosed with emphysema when she learned she also had NTM. “I didn’t have the strength I normally had and I had trouble breathing,” says Harris. “A lot of coughing. A lot of coughing up spewdom.”

“The organism enters the lungs, usually the patients present with weakness, persistent cough, they have night sweats, their oxygen, CO2 is very weak,” says Dr. Joseph Falkinham, a biology professor with Virginia Tech.

And Baylor Medical Center pulmonologist Dr. Mark Millard says we’re surrounded by the bacteria which thrives in warm and moist places, like shower heads and hot tubs.

“Just when you thought it was safe to go to sleep at night, take a shower, enjoy your own hot tub, well no, we find there’s something else lurking in the dark,” says Dr. Millard.

As our household water became cleaner over the years – most bacteria were killed off.  But NTM bacteria have proven extraordinarily resilient.  And we’re surrounded by the organisms.  You can find them in showers, bath water, we even drink them and cook with them.

But not to worry.

“Your drinking water is okay,” says Dr. Millard. “When it comes out of a shower head and aerosolizes. So maybe don’t take a deep breath in the shower. I’m not going to recommend that. It’s good to breathe.”

Researchers at the University of Colorado found that up to 30% of shower heads are contaminated with the bacteria.

But Dr. Millard points out the majority of people never get NTM.  The ones who do tend to have a history of lung and bronchial problems or compromised immune systems.  And while NTM can be fatal, it is treatable.

Nancy Harris has been taking medication for the past year and will soon find out if she’s completely clear of the disease.   And when that happens, she plans to celebrate.  “If my last culture comes back negative, I’ll probably have a sizeable party at my home.”

Many people with NTM are often misdiagnosed because it mimics so many other diseases, including tuberculosis and even lung cancer.

>>Click Here for more information and specialists<<
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First published on October 9, 2012 / 10:15 PM

© 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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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

Cold or flu	Runny nose, sore throat, headache, fever.
Bronchitis	Severe cough with phlegm, chest pain or discomfort, fatigue, fever.
Bronchial asthma	Dry cough, shortness of breath, wheezing in the chest, panic.
Pneumonia	Severe cough with sputum, chest pain, fever, weakness, loss of appetite.

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.

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Both in the shower and in the fresh air – Health Olympus

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Finding out the truth about bronchitis

Fresh air in both bronchitis and pneumonia is not contraindicated, but, on the contrary, helps to stimulate 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

You can do without antibiotics. 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. 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.

If you have bronchitis, you can’t take a shower or go outside

These are some of the strangest myths. Probably, they are associated with the fear of getting some kind of complications. In fact, you can take both a shower and a bath. The main thing is not to do this in hot water (over 39 degrees), then wipe yourself dry and dry your head with a hairdryer.