Tag

Respiratory System

All articles tagged with #respiratory system

health-environment1 year ago

Gas Stoves Emit More Harmful Nanoparticles Than Vehicle Exhaust: Study

A study by Purdue University found that cooking on gas stoves emits more nano-sized particles into the air than vehicles running on gas or diesel, potentially increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses. These tiny nanoparticles, called nanocluster aerosol, can reach deep into the respiratory system and spread to other organs. The study suggests using kitchen exhaust fans while cooking on gas stoves and highlights the need to consider nanocluster aerosol as a distinct air pollutant category. The research, conducted in a specially designed "tiny house" lab, revealed that adults and children could be breathing in 10-100 times more nanocluster aerosol from gas stove cooking indoors than from car exhaust while standing on a busy street.

health-and-science1 year ago

"The Dangers of Snorting Asbestos and Other Risky Behaviors"

A Redditor's mate accidentally snorted a line of asbestos at a house party, sparking questions about the effects of snorting everyday substances. According to ENT doctor Florian Bast, snorting asbestos can potentially increase the risk of lung cancer, but the timeline for any side effects is slow and survival is possible. Snorting salt, sugar, flour, drywall, concrete powder, Lemsip cold and flu powder, snow, coffee, desert sand, and talcum powder can cause nasal discomfort and irritation, but generally won't lead to fatality unless inhaled in large amounts over time. Dr. Bast has treated patients who snorted various foreign bodies, including super glue, chili, and even ants.

health1 year ago

"Tragic Loss: Michigan Chef Succumbs to Rare Fungal Lung Infection"

A 29-year-old Michigan chef died after battling blastomycosis, a rare fungal disease that "ravaged" his lungs. Ian Pritchard contracted the illness, which spread from his lungs to his central nervous system, skin, and joints. The infection, caused by breathing in spores of the fungus blastomyces found in moist soil and decaying wood, typically develops within two to 15 weeks and has no cure. Pritchard's family is in shock over their sudden loss, and a GoFundMe page has raised almost $20,000 for them.

health-and-wellness2 years ago

Understanding the Urgency: Decoding the Dangers of 'Down the Wrong Pipe'

This article explores the phenomenon of coughing "down the wrong pipe," explaining that it occurs when food or liquid enters the windpipe instead of the esophagus. While it is usually harmless and can be resolved by coughing, in some cases it can lead to choking or aspiration pneumonia, which requires immediate medical attention. The article provides tips on how to prevent this from happening and when to seek emergency care.

health2 years ago

"Decoding the Meaning of Unusual Booger Appearance: When to Seek Medical Attention"

The color of your boogers can indicate potential health problems. Yellow or green mucus may suggest an infection, while brown mucus could be a sign of respiratory system issues or environmental influences. Red boogers may indicate irritation or injury, and black boogers could be due to a fungal infection or smoking. Clear mucus is generally considered normal and healthy. It's important to pay attention to changes in mucus color and seek medical assistance if accompanied by persistent symptoms like coughing, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or fever.

health2 years ago

Hantavirus Outbreak Claims Two Lives in New Mexico

Six residents in New Mexico have been diagnosed with hantavirus, with two fatalities reported. Deer mice are the main carriers of the virus, which can be contracted through the respiratory system or by touching mice droppings or urine. The virus cannot be transmitted between people. Symptoms can resemble the flu or a stomach bug and can develop within a week of exposure. The New Mexico Department of Health recommends several prevention measures, including trapping mice, sealing up homes, and avoiding contact with rodent droppings.

health2 years ago

Elderly individuals emit more airborne particles, study finds.

Research has found that people over 60 years old emit unexpectedly high aerosolized respiratory particle emissions, with subjects aged 60 to 76 years old emitting over twice as many aerosol particles at rest and during exercise and five times as much aerosol volume. The study highlights that age significantly affects aerosol particle emission, and one size may not fit all when planning mitigation measures, especially for indoor fitness facilities or elder care facilities during heightened infection waves or future pandemics.

health2 years ago

Phlegm: Causes and Remedies.

Phlegm, also known as sputum, is a slimy substance found in the throat and lungs that helps trap harmful particles and lubricate tissues. Excess phlegm can be caused by infections, allergies, or chronic respiratory illnesses. The color of phlegm can indicate health issues, with clear phlegm being normal and yellow or green indicating a bacterial infection. Home remedies to reduce phlegm include drinking fluids, using a humidifier, gargling with salt water, and using expectorant medication. Seek medical care if phlegm persists for more than three or four weeks, or if accompanied by chest pain, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.