Hidden dangers in the air we breathe!
We are all aware of the fact that air pollution is in its highest rates in history and know about the harmful effects that it can cause. However, when we think about air pollution, we think of crowded cities whose air has been tinted grey due to emissions from vehicles and factories. While smoke and industrial gases are a big issue, they are far from the only airborne particles that can cause you harm and lead to serious health conditions. In this era where wearing a mask while going out has become the norm, let us talk about some of the dangers that hide in our houses and the air we breathe.
Allergens and dust particles
The most common of the airborne particles are dust particles, pollen and allergens. Allergies due to pollen, pet hair, dust mites and dust affect a large number of people and cause severe discomfort to them. These particles can also lead to asthma attacks, emphysema, bronchitis, lung infection and more.
Bacteria, virus and other microbes
There are many bacteria, virus and other microbes that habitat the air around us and can cause severe and life-threatening health conditions if they manage to find their way into our body. Some of the more common airborne infections include measles, chickenpox, common coronavirus and even the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. These airborne infectious agents posses a big threat to young children and the elderly.
Smoke and secondhand smoke
The dangers of smoking and even inhaling secondhand smoke is something that we are all aware. Studies show that secondhand smoke is more dangerous and damaging to an individual that previously thought and might even be worse than smoking. Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke can cause lung cancer, adversely affect the cardiovascular system and cause coronary heart disease and stroke. It also affects young children and cause a bevy of health conditions in them.
Radon gas
Radon gas is definitely not something that comes into our mind when we talk about indoor air pollutants. Radon gas is naturally formed due to the reactions of traces amounts of uranium in the water, rocks or soil. It can then make its way into your house or office through cracks in the floor or through the gaps for wiring or plumbing. Radon gas is lead to lung cancer and other serious health conditions.
Volatile organic compounds
Volatile organic compounds or VOC are compounds that can quickly turn into gas or vapours. They are released through the burning of wood, gasoline or natural gases. It can also be realised from other everyday items like spray cans, glues, air fresheners, cigarettes, moth balls, solvents among other chemicals. Expose to these compounds might lead to a large range of issues including irritation of the eye and throat, headache, dizziness, memory problems, damage to the kidneys and even cancer.
Stale air
In a closed room without ventilation, it is easy for the air to go stale and unbreathable. As the carbon dioxide levels in the air keeps increasing, it can lead to issues like nausea, dizziness, fatigue and can even drastically decrease cognitive functions.
We all want the best for ourselves and our family. We want them happy, healthy and free of any diseases or infection. Therefore, it is important to make sure that they have access to clean and pure air. There are a few steps that can help you achieve this. While moving away from the pollution and crowd of the city and settling in the mountains might seem like a good idea, it is rarely feasible to most. Simpler methods like keeping your house clean and dust free, indoor plants etc. can go a long way when it comes to maintaining air quality. But the best way to assure clean and pure air is to invest in an air purifier. Air purifiers are able to absorb and neutralise harmful particles in the air and filter it. With newer models coming out in a regular basis, you can easily find a model that fits your needs and doesn’t break the bank.
If you are interested in buying an air purifier or wants to know more, check out my upcoming article on why you need an air purifier on my blog journeywithqnet.com.
