Recently, a netizen shared their experience of developing a fungal lung infection simply by sniffing a pair of freshly removed socks. This incident has sparked considerable attention and discussion among internet users.
So, how could stinky socks be related to a lung infection? Why is it dangerous to smell socks? What hazardous components are present on socks that could lead to such consequences?
Source: A certain social media platform
Why shouldn't you smell dirty socks? The socks we wear accumulate sweat, salt, urea, and bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus.
For those who experience itchy and smelly feet, it's highly likely they have contracted a fungal infection, commonly known as "athlete's foot". Wearing shoes for extended periods creates a closed environment, which fosters further fungal growth.
When individuals sniff their socks or feet closely, the fungi on them may enter the nasal cavity and proceed to the lower respiratory tract and lungs. If the body's immune function is compromised, it could lead to fungal infections in the lower respiratory tract, such as fungal pneumonia.
So, the seemingly innocuous act of sniffing socks can come at a steep cost, resulting in persistent coughing, chest CT scans showing patchy shadows and cavities, requiring hospitalization for detailed examinations like bronchoscopy, followed by lengthy treatments involving regular oral antifungal medications and periodic follow-ups.
These items should not be smelled. Today, let's discuss besides smelly socks, what other items should we be cautious about not smelling in our daily lives?
Firstly, let's understand the functionality of the human nose. As a powerful olfactory organ, it not only helps us discern odors but also serves a protective function. Don't underestimate the importance of the abundant nose hairs inside the nasal cavity, as they filter dust and purify the air.
The nasal cavity contains rich blood vessels and mucous glands, which help warm, moisten, and purify the inhaled air. From the nasal cavity downwards lie our throat, trachea, and lungs, all interconnected.
Therefore, when we inhale harmful odors, they can easily reach the lungs from the nasal cavity, causing deep-seated harm. Thus, we shouldn't constantly pick our noses or pluck nose hairs, as it could interfere with the nose's filtering function against harmful gases.
Although the nasal cavity provides some protection, harmful substances are still quite cunning, and there are many items in our lives that we should avoid contact with:
For example, Little Red lives in a suburban villa, and during the rainy season, many mold spots appeared on the walls of the basement rooms. Without wearing a mask or taking other protective measures, she directly used a small shovel to remove the mold spots. As a result, she inhaled a lot of fungi during the removal process. Combined with her busy daily work and weakened immune system, it led to a pulmonary cryptococcal infection.
Then there's Little Blue, who enjoys playing the flute in his spare time. However, he neglects to maintain his flute, and mold has grown inside it. Without paying attention, he accidentally inhales the mold while playing the flute, resulting in a fungal infection.
Wall mold. Image source: a certain social media platform.
So, it's important to clean items regularly and promptly discard items with mold. Also, take precautions such as washing hands frequently, wearing masks, maintaining regular sleep patterns, avoiding staying up late, and seeking medical attention promptly if you have respiratory symptoms.
Some odors can be harmful to the body. Many people feel dizzy or nauseous when they smell gasoline. When volatile gasoline enters the respiratory tract, it competes with oxygen for red blood cells in the alveoli, leading to symptoms like difficulty breathing and dizziness.
Most people dislike the smell of smoke, yet smokers often don't mind it. We're all aware of the dangers of secondhand smoke. Smokers have a higher risk of lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) than non-smokers. Secondhand smoke is also a common pollutant that harms children's health, causing asthma, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), bronchitis, pneumonia, and other diseases.
Harmful gases such as formaldehyde and benzene may be present in the air after a new decoration. Their odors can cause tearing, sore throat, coughing, and prolonged exposure can lead to various cancers and blood diseases. Therefore, it's not recommended to move in immediately after renovation. Instead, it's advisable to ventilate the space by opening windows and use items like green plants and activated carbon to remove odors and harmful gases.
Stationery emitting strong fragrances may attract children to purchase, but scented erasers and pens, especially some "three-no" inferior products, contain harmful chemicals such as phenol, formaldehyde, mercury, and alkanes to varying degrees. Prolonged use can lead to symptoms like headaches, nausea, and respiratory inflammation. Parents should be vigilant when choosing stationery for their children.
There are also odors from products like nail polish, which often contain harmful chemicals such as benzene, formaldehyde, and xylene. These substances can damage human health, causing skin allergies, headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Additionally, some artificially synthesized camphor pills contain dichlorobenzene, which can cause fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and diarrhea.
As the ancient saying goes, "Fragrance intoxicates the heart," but in our daily lives, we still need to pay attention to many details. Even items with strong fragrances may be harmful. Let's all stay vigilant and take precautions.
