New Delhi: The AQI of Delhi has been a major concern for years, but in recent months, the city’s air pollution problem has intensified due to stubble burning in neighboring states, industrial emissions, construction dust, and vehicle pollution. As Delhi’s AQI is hitting hazardous levels day by day, the residents face various health concerns including eye irritation, wheezing, and respiratory issues from prolonged exposure to the polluted air. They can adopt several measures to improve indoor air quality which minimizes the adverse impact of outdoor pollution.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Sachet Dawar, Faculty of Medical Respiratory of Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences College & Hospital, NIIMS, shared some simple tips to improve indoor air quality.
Here are some essential and effective ways to improve air quality indoors.
Invest in Air Purifiers: Air purifiers filter out pollutants, allergens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Investing in good air purifiers with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) can be one of the most effective ways to improve air quality indoors. To maximize the impact, purifiers should be placed in high-use areas including the living room and bedroom.
Keep Windows and Doors Closed During High AQI Hours: Generally, fresh air circulation is recommended for indoor spaces. It can be a good choice to avoid opening windows when AQI levels are high, usually in the early morning and evening. The ideal time for ventilation can be the time when AQI is less severe.
Minimise Indoor Pollutant Sources: Smoking, burning candles, or cooking with open flames are some indoor sources that release pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. These harmful pollutants may trigger rhinitis, bronchitis, or sinusitis. Using electric or induction appliances and low-odor cleaning products while avoiding indoor smoking and artificial fragrances can contribute to a healthier environment indoors.
Maintain a Clean Home: Maintaining a clean home is essential to improve air quality indoors. Dust and allergens can contribute to the degradation of air quality inside the house. Regular cleaning and vacuuming with a high-efficiency filter will prevent dust from settling on the surface and improve the overall air quality indoors.
Incorporate Indoor Plants: Plants can reduce volatile organic compounds in the air. Certain indoor plants including areca palm, spider plant, snake plant, and peace lily are known as air purifier plants as they purify the air by increasing oxygen levels and decreasing carbon dioxide levels.
Create a “Clean Zone”: Designating a room or area as a “clean zone” can be beneficial to increase the exposure to toxin-free air. Make sure that this area is installed with an air purifier and has a cleaner atmosphere with minimal or no allergens.
Maintain Humidity Levels: Dry air can increase the risk of respiratory issues and dry eyes. Use a humidifier to maintain an ideal humidity level to prevent the associated health risks. Ensure that the humidifier is cleaned regularly to avoid bacteria and mold growth.
Delhi’s AQI fluctuates drastically, especially during winter. To combat the negative impact of the fluctuation, it is important to adopt a combination of strategies to ensure a healthy environment indoors. We may not have complete control over outdoor pollution but it is very essential to create a healthy and safe space indoors to protect health during Delhi’s pollution crisis.
As Delhi’s AQI is hitting hazardous levels day by day, the residents face various health concerns including eye irritation, wheezing, and respiratory issues from prolonged exposure to the polluted air. They can adopt several measures to improve indoor air quality which minimizes the adverse impact of outdoor pollution. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
