With the weather warming up outside, people feel that relaxing indoors to beat the heat is an ideal solution. However, in reality this is not true! The air you breathe indoors can be extremely hazardous leading to increased incidences of viral infections and aggravate asthma attacks. It could be gradually killing you and your family. Humidity in homes permits the growth of molds. These microorganisms act as irritants in both allergic and non-allergic people. Sneezing, sniffing, wheezing, coughing and swelling of the throat are the most common summer problems. These summer allergies can put a real crimp in your daily lifestyle, especially for asthmatics and children suffering from breathing orders.
Given the usual modern homes that we live in, a lot of indoor chemicals, gases, natural toxins, dust and clutter gets piled up in our houses. Moreover, humid conditions foster the growth of dust mites which are usually found in places like mattresses, pillows and carpets giving rise to dust allergies. More and more people install air conditioners and air coolers to beat the scorching heat, not knowing that it does more harm than good. The air conditioners keep running all day long, recirculating the same air which contains small particles and pollutants such as molds, smoke, house dust and pet dander. These conditioners do not filter the air nor purify it. Keeping in mind that asthmatic's and children are extremely sensitive to dust, inhaling these indoor allergens can worsen their breathing conditions and lead to a major asthma event.
A few precautionary measures that can go a long way to help you keep your indoor air quality healthy and protect you from upper respiratory tract infections that can lead to asthma
" Control moisture - Nooks and corners of your home where the moisture gets collected easily should be regularly cleaned and dried
" Avoid the use of air fresheners as they can trigger allergy symptoms and aggravate existing allergies and worsen asthma. While they make your rooms smell better, at the same time they also emit volatile chemicals into the air
" Install air purifiers with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters. Installing an air purifier with a high efficiency particulate air filtration (HEPA) filter is another option for purifying the air. Air purifiers can trap small particles and pollutants such as molds, smoke, house dust and also remove foul odor, thereby significantly improving indoor air quality
" Make sure to consider the room size- while opting for an air purifier. There are a variety of technologically advanced air purifiers available in the market that offer customized solutions. Choose an air purifier with a recommended room size larger than your room dimension
" Prioritize hygiene. It will help in protection from viral infections that trigger asthma. Frequently wash your hands, it is one of the best and simplest ways to prevent the spread of any contagious disease
" Consult doctors immediately when experiencing symptoms such as nasal dripping, watery & itchy eyes, constant coughing and allergic conjunctivitis
" Lastly and importantly vacuum your home regularly and get it tested by an air quality testing expert
With the help of these few lifestyle changes, take care of your lungs and breathe healthy, beginning this World Asthma Day!
Guest Author
The author is chief scientific officer- water purification technology at Eureka Forbes Limited
