This unclean spot in the bathroom may lead to skin and lung damage

One doctor became clear about how important it is to your health to maintain a clean bathroom.

Dr. Scott Walter revealed that people should clean shower heads in the bathroom to avoid damaging their skin and lungs.

“I learned[this]at a dermatology conference this year, and here’s why: biofilms,” the Denver-based dermatologist shared in a viral TikTok video. With 5.5 million views.

In the 45-second clip, Walter describes biofilms as “bacterial colonies, in fact, they’re more like a fortress, because they’re very impenetrable, and they live inside our shower heads, according to studies.”

A biofilm is a collection of microbial cells that are irreversibly attached to a surface and surrounded by a matrix of primarily polysaccharide matter, according to Journal of Emerging Infectious Diseases. And it can’t be removed with a “gentle rinse,” according to the post.

Bacterial biofilms can cause skin diseases and respiratory problems that often develop in areas neglected during the cleaning process.

Walter adds that people with weakened immune systems, such as smokers or those with lung disease, should be aware of the bacteria in the bathroom.

“When you shower, those bacteria, yeast and fungus are released into a fine mist,” the dermatologist continues. “These can get into your lungs, and they can affect your skin and other places in your body.”

Walter said the bacteria “can be linked to skin diseases and other conditions,” and then referred to this list on his TikTok account: “Malassezia: scalp; Acanthamoeba: ocular; Pseudo: ears. M. avium: the digestive system. Legionella/Mycobacterium: lung; Folliculitis and Post-Operative Infection.”

The Post has reached out to Walter for comment.

Other bacteria found in showerheads are mycobacteria — a harmful organism linked to a type of lung infection known as non-tuberculous mycobacteria — according to Medline Plus.

Study from American Society for Microbiology The bacteria were found “in shower heads and inhalation of volatile mycobacteria while showering”. Although bacteria seem to be more common in metal shower heads than in plastic, Walter revealed a cleaning solution that can eliminate the presence of bacteria.

in Follow-up videoA dermatologist teaches followers how to clean shower heads with white vinegar using two methods.

First, he dipped the shower head in a bowl of white vinegar and advised letting it soak for four hours or overnight. In the second method, he wrapped the showerhead in a plastic bag filled with white vinegar and tied a rubber band around the showerhead.

according to shower head shopThe shower head should be cleaned at least once a month, which the average person doesn’t do.

The disturbing information shocked many TikTok followers, who were disappointed to find they had another item that needed to be cleaned up.

“One. One more. Thing. L. “Clean,” one observer sighed.

One woman joked, “I was here the other day letting water pool in my mouth for fun.”

Another added, “I’ll pretend I didn’t see this.” “So we need to clean everything all the time. I can barely keep up with my dishes.”