Concerns About Lung Health After Using a Friend's Pipe
Hey everyone, I'm a 42-year-old woman, 5'8" tall, weighing 168 pounds, residing in Florida. I do have a history of lupus, but I'm currently in remission and not taking any medications. Recently, I visited a friend's place, where she brought out a glass pipe that had an iridescent finish. Unfortunately, I couldn't see inside it clearly. After just one use, I felt a severe burning sensation in my lungs. My friend casually mentioned that she hadn’t cleaned it in three years, although she claimed she replaces the water regularly. When I managed to inspect the inside with my phone's flashlight, I was shocked to find it caked with grime. The following morning, I woke up feeling extremely unwell, and this discomfort has persisted for several days. I'm experiencing fatigue, a persistent cough, and significant lung pain. I can't help but wonder, is this just a coincidence? Or could I be facing a serious issue due to possible mold and bacteria that were in that pipe?
Answers (1)
3/27/2025, 11:30:47 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're understandably concerned about your lung health after using a potentially unhygienic smoking device. The symptoms you're describing—persistent cough, lung pain, and fatigue—could be related to exposure to irritants, including mold or bacteria. It's important to address these symptoms carefully, especially given your previous health history with lupus.
Explanation
When sharing smoking devices, especially those that haven't been cleaned, there is a risk of inhaling harmful substances or pathogens that may cause respiratory irritation or infections. This is particularly concerning in your case, given the presence of grime and possibly hazardous materials from the device.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. Look for any worsening, especially increasing cough, difficulty breathing, or any new symptoms such as fever or chills.
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Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help soothe your throat and maintain hydration, which can support your overall health.
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Rest: Allow your body time to recover. Fatigue can be an indication that your body is working hard to handle irritation or infection.
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Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of smoking and other environmental irritants (like dust or strong odors) that can further aggravate your lungs.
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Seek Further Evaluation if Needed: If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if you develop more serious signs such as a high fever or difficulty breathing, it’s important to consider professional medical assessment.
Taking these steps can help you manage your present symptoms while prioritizing your lung health. If you notice significant deterioration or prolonged discomfort, please consider seeking medical advice to rule out any serious conditions. Take care, and I hope you feel better soon!
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