ANDREEA GROZA

We witness pollution in major cities directly affecting the respiratory mucosa, finding its way into the nose and lungs. Chronic inflammation occurs, and on chronic inflammation, allergens are even more aggressive.

Prof. Dr. Codruț Sarafoleanu, an ENT specialist: "These particles adhere very well to allergens and increase the severity of allergic reactions. This pollen, wrapped in a layer of dust, will certainly be more aggressive, which is why our respiratory manifestations are more severe.

In the nose, we have a filter and a very important heat exchanger. This nasal filter can no longer cope with this large flow of tar and pollutants, which is why inflammatory diseases occur as the first stage.

Signs that should draw attention include nasal congestion, possibly in one nostril, persistent nosebleeds, swallowing disorders, hoarseness in the case of the larynx. Any hoarseness lasting more than three weeks should be investigated by a specialist".

In addition to pollution associated with a city, there is an exponential increase in self-pollution. We are talking about cigarettes. But also about vaping devices.

Prof. Dr. Codruț Sarafoleanu, an ENT specialist: "There is still the idea that these cigarettes, which do not produce smoke, only heat, these vaping devices are less harmful. There are already studies showing that they can also cause tongue, oral cavity and larynx cancers.

It is an illusion for smokers that these devices are less harmful. If they smoke and feel like they haven't had anything happen to them in 2 years, they become increasingly bold and increase their cigarette consumption".

Before reaching the throat, cigarette smoke hits the oral cavity.

Dr. Marius Balaban, Dentist: "Smoking in all its forms: vaping, smoking, smoking pipes. Any problem, any bleeding, any inflammation can be a sign of more serious long-term issues. If an ulceration, a scratch appears, we can become aware of it".

Serious diseases of the oral cavity, nose, pharynx and larynx are observed in 30-year-olds. The explanation is pollution. And self-pollution, meaning smoking.