What are the causes and danger of pneumonia? To answer these questions, let's see what duties in the body are "entrusted" to the lungs.
The most important and well-known function of the lungs is the delivery of oxygen into the blood and the removal of carbon dioxide from it. But this function is far from the only one. Lungs prevent the penetration into our body of viruses and bacteria contained in the inspired air; are responsible for the temperature of our body, cooling or heating the air entering into them; participate in the exchange of salts and fluid in the body, synthesize some proteins and fats, produce substances necessary for blood clotting. All these "services" of our lungs are vital for us, and, therefore, lung health is an indispensable condition for health and the whole organism.
It is generally believed that pneumonia is a consequence of hypothermia. However, it is not. This disease, as a rule, is a complication of other diseases, and first of all, catarrhal and acute respiratory-viral infections. Any inflammatory processes in the body cause the formation of a huge number of toxins entering the blood, and the lungs actively participate in their removal. Such a load leads to malfunctions in their work and causes the process of inflammation.
But one should not think that the danger of pneumonia is threatened only by the sick. It exists in the most ordinary conditions of life. The disease can be a consequence of the general passivity of man, the habit of spending most of the time in poorly ventilated premises of offices and apartments. Dryness and air pollution (especially in conjunction with smoking) can cause changes in the properties of mucus or sputum, secreted by the bronchi, which significantly hampers the ventilation of the lungs, trapping in them a mass of bacteria, the reproduction of which also leads to inflammation.
What signs can indicate the development of pneumonia? There are a number of symptoms of the disease that should alert you. Cough lasting more than a week; inability to take a deep breath (such an attempt causes pain and coughing attacks); dyspnea; high temperature, which can not be "knocked down" by traditional drugs; obvious pallor of the skin. But it is important to know that the symptoms of the disease for a while may not manifest at all.
What to do if you observe all or several of the above symptoms in yourself or your loved ones? Be sure to contact your doctor as soon as possible. If you suspect a serious illness like pneumonia, do not risk your health and even life, prescribing self-medication. This disease is caused by pathogenic bacteria, among which may be partially or completely resistant to any known antibiotics. And only a doctor, given the complexity of the disease, can prescribe the necessary treatment for you.
Uncomplicated forms of pneumonia can be treated at home, but only under the supervision of a specialist. Complicated forms of the disease, taking place against the background of respiratory or heart failure, require treatment in a hospital. In any case, treatment should be started as early as possible in order to prevent a prolonged and chronic form of the disease.
Obviously, in the fight against pneumonia without the use of strong drugs, antibiotics, expectorants, as well as inhalations, physiotherapy, special gymnastics, massage and much more can not do.
It is important to note that the treatment of pneumonia requires a special diet that helps the body cope with the disease. Significantly reduces the intoxication of the body with such a disease abundant drink. First of all, it is tea with honey, juices, kissels and fruit drinks. Very useful are various dairy products and in general everything that contributes to the increase of immunity and resistance of the organism.
Traditional medicine also offers a large number of effective agents for external and internal use in the treatment of pneumonia. These are all kinds of rubbing, wrapping, compresses, inhalations and a variety of infusions of herbs and plants, and other natural components. Traditionally, inflammation of the lungs uses animal fat as part of various recipes. All these funds actively contribute to the alleviation of the patient's condition and prevent the development of the disease. However, recipes of traditional medicine can be applied only as a supplement to the treatment prescribed by a doctor. Do not forget about the importance and necessity of preventing pneumonia, aimed at overall strengthening and recovery of the body.
We hope that you are not threatened with pneumonia, treatment, medication in which you must follow the old one as directed by the doctor. Be healthy!