pneumonia

[shamrock]

Guys theres a trip to these old caves coming up in our frid group, but someone said I shouldnt go cas I could catch pneumonia. Is this because its real damp there or does anyone know?

 

[shamrock]

Oh and does pneumonia do real bad damage?

 

[anonymous]

Shamrock,

My initial thought to the CAVE is no it will not. It is cold (I think 55 degrees) in there which would really mean less bacteria. I do think the issue is the bats, more specifically their waste. Their excrement is infected with a fungus called Histoplasma capsulatum. Even though the infection is treatable, it does effect the lungs so maybe not such a good idea for us?

Of course I always say what use is it to have life if you never live, your decision?


luke

 

[shamrock]

Thanks for the reply. I hate to think of bats pooing everywhere-yuck! I havnt made up my mind yet but thanks for the info!

 

[anonymous]

Another thought is if you're allergic to molds, etc, it may not be a good idea to go or at least take a good antihistamine before you go.

 

[shamrock]

Sorry, whats an antihistamine?

 

[anonymous]

Histamines are part of your bodies defense system. When you are exposed to something: virus, allergen whatever, your body releases histamines. Histamines make you cough, wheeze, sneeze and basically all the symptoms of a cold. It is funny the virus doesn’t cause you to feel crappy it is our defense to it. Anti-histamine stabilizes the cell so it won't release histamine. Over the counter ones are Benadryl and Pseudophederine

luke

 

[anonymous]

oh and by the way, taking pseudophed will not keep you from beng infected with bat crap

luke