Protecting Yourself From Air Pollution!

If you’ve read the newspaper recently, you would no doubt have read about the alarming air pollution levels. Whether it is of exhaust fumes from cars and factories or smoke from burning stubble air pollution is a cause of great concern. The effects of this can be seen in the growing number of asthma and other respiratory diseases. These diseases affect adults and children alike, however, it is the younger generation and elderly people are most susceptible.

How does Pollution affect your health?
When it comes to air pollution, particulate matter is the greatest worry. This can be described as a mixture of solid and liquid particles that remain suspended in the air. Inhaling air with this particulate matter leads to them being deposited on the lining of the respiratory tubes and organs. This can hinder the normal functioning of the respiratory system and act as catalysts for reactions that can harm your health. Along with the lungs, inhaling this particulate matter can also affect the heart and other organs. It also increases susceptibility to allergic reactions and diseases such as asthma.

Protecting yourself from air pollution
Simply talking about how there need to be stricter laws about car emissions and the burning of waste will not help you. Here are a few things you can do to protect yourself and your family from the ill effects of air pollution.

1. Carpool: Exhausts from cars and other vehicles are one of the biggest causes of air pollution. Do your part to reduce air pollution by restricting the amount you use your car. Try taking public transport to work or carpool with colleagues. Similarly, avoid making individual trips every time you need something from the market. Make a list and when it’s long enough, then step out.
2. Limit indoor pollution: Do not smoke indoors. When cooking, keep the exhaust fan on so that the smoke produced does not collect indoors. Avoid spraying air fresheners etc. While they may temporarily make the air smell fresh, in the long run, they contribute towards air pollution.
3. Check the weather before you step out: Just as you can see the daily temperature on your phone, a number of sites also tell you the pollution levels in your city. Avoid stepping out in the early morning and during peak traffic hours as this is when pollution levels are highest. When the air pollution levels are high, keep your windows closed as well.
4. Cover your nose: Invest in a face mask. This will help filter the air you breathe and keep particulate matter from entering your system.