The lungs as a respiratory organ are one of the organs that are most concerned about. There are various kinds of diseases that can infect this organ, one of which we are more familiar with is Pneumonia which in layman's language is known as Wet Lung. Pneumonia occurs due to abnormalities in the tissue in the lungs as a result of infection with microorganisms. Pneumonia can be recognized by several symptoms such as experiencing shortness of breath, coughing, coughing up phlegm, chest pain, high fever, loss of appetite, to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Pneumonia knows no age group and can affect anyone from toddlers, to children, adults, and the elderly.
In general, this respiratory disease can be caused by several things, such as poor nutrition and body health and the main cause is an infection due to the development of bacteria, viruses, and fungi which can be transmitted to other people. In addition, prolonged use of a ventilator can also trigger pneumonia. So, what about the myth that cold air causes pneumonia?
It should be noted that cold and damp rooms and poor ventilation can facilitate the proliferation of bacteria, viruses, and fungi and anyone can get this respiratory disease, especially those who have low immune systems due to a lack of white blood cells where these cells become a defense shield against various diseases. bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The thing that is misguided among the people is that many people believe that cold and damp air is the main factor. What actually happens is that the wind or cold air inhaled by the nose feels colder. This cold air triggers excessive mucus production. Unfortunately, it is this excessive mucus production that traps bacteria, viruses, and fungi to develop.
So, it is not cold or damp air that is the main cause of contracting pneumonia. However, cold and damp rooms and poor ventilation make it easier for bacteria, viruses, and fungi to grow.
After knowing the facts, understanding the causes of pneumonia opens up new insights, so that we can be vigilant and increase our desire to maintain optimal health. Eating nutritious food and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the easiest way to protect ourselves from various kinds of diseases both now and in the future. Protect your lung health!
The article was written by dr. Herman, Sp.P (Lung and Respiratory Specialist at EMC Sentul Hospital).