There are various myths about dirty blood circulating in society. There are those who think that dirty blood is blood that comes out during menstruation, there are also those who consider it the cause of boils and acne. However, what exactly is dirty blood and what does it have to do with health?
In the medical world, the terms clean blood and dirty blood are known. Clean blood contains high oxygen levels, while dirty blood contains metabolic waste products from body tissues and no longer contains oxygen.
Medical Conditions Related to Dirty Blood
There is no medical evidence that states that dirty blood can cause various health problems. However, there are several health conditions that are often associated with dirty blood, including:
1. Menstruation
Women who are menstruating are not in a 'dirty' condition. Menstrual blood that comes out is not dirty or dangerous from a medical point of view. Blood and tissue that comes out during menstruation comes from the thickening of the inner lining of the uterus which is necessary for the pregnancy process.
When a woman is not pregnant, the uterus thickens and the unfertilized egg is shed outside the uterus in the form of menstrual blood. The thickness or color of menstrual blood can vary based on the number of days of menstruation and hormone levels.
2. Acne
The appearance of acne cannot be attributed to dirty blood. There are four factors that influence the appearance of acne, namely excess oil production, clogged pores, buildup of dead skin cells, and bacterial infections on the skin.
Well, acne occurs when the pores in the skin are clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This condition can make bacteria grow, resulting in inflammation which is often called acne.
The onset of acne can also be influenced by hormonal factors, taking certain medications, stress, or being on a certain diet.
3. Boils
Contrary to popular belief, boils are also not caused by dirty blood. Boils occur when bacteria infect hair follicles on the skin, causing inflammation.
Boils generally appear as red, tender lumps that get bigger as they fill with pus and are painful.
However, never squeeze or pop the boil yourself, as this can only make the infection spread. Consult a doctor if the appearance can be accompanied by fever and occurs for more than two weeks.
4. Allergies
Allergies are also often associated with dirty blood. However, this myth cannot be proven true. Allergies are an exaggerated response of the body's immune system to foreign substances.
Symptoms that arise due to allergic reactions can be different for each person, ranging from nasal congestion, sneezing, red and watery eyes, itchy skin, swelling, to asthma attacks.
Allergens or allergy triggers for each person are different. Some of the most common allergy triggers are pollen, dust, mold, certain foods or drinks, and medications. Sometimes, stimuli from outside the body, such as cold temperatures, can also trigger allergy symptoms.
The myth of dirty blood can cause health problems, in fact it is not medically proven even though it is still believed by some people. If you experience symptoms of various health problems above, immediately consult a doctor to get the right treatment.