Every year, before all of us get to enjoy the most awaited season of the year, we are welcomed by smog. Hanging over cities, smog poses a major risk to our health and well being.
According to a recent Lancet study, nearly 1.6 million deaths were reported in India in 2019 due to air pollution. However, globally, air pollution caused 6.7 million deaths in the same year.
Lately, smog has become a major issue of all metropolitan cities. It not only affects people’s health but their lifestyle as well. Since it has become an inevitable part of our life, we need to make sure that we take preventive measures which minimize its effects.
But before we move onto that, let’s discuss what smog really is:
What Is Smog?
Smog is a type of air pollution which is formed by the combination of multiple pollutants. These pollutants are released in the environment naturally as well as through human activities.
Even though smog has various chemicals, its two main components are particulate matter and ground-level ozone. Smog is mainly produced when large amounts of high sulfur coal is burned; however, recently, a new term “photochemical smog” has come into existence.
Unlike regular smog, photochemical smog is a combination of vehicle emissions and sunlight. It is commonly seen in populated cities with large numbers of vehicles.
Health Effects of Smog
Smog has various health effects; however, its effects may vary from person to person. Its severity depends on different factors like, how much it is inhaled, the age of the person, overall well being, etc.
Despite variation in these factors, too much exposure does cause damage.
Some side effects of smog include:
- Throat, eye and nose infection
- Burning of eyes
- Aggravated respiratory issue
- Emergency room visits for asthma patients
- Lightheadedness
- Death, in extreme cases
Precautionary Measures Against Smog
Now that we know the causes of smog, let’s see what are some of the precautionary measures that we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
Limited Outdoor Activity
It is recommended that you try to limit your outdoor activity during the smoggy season, especially during midday when ozone level is at its highest.
If you go out every day for a workout or jogging, try to choose another time or workout inside your home.
Indoor Air Purifier
It is essential that you breathe clean air and for this purpose, you can buy an indoor air purifier for your home. An indoor purifier is essential as it reduces the concentration of air pollutants in the air.
These filters remove smoke, dust, asbestos, pollen, pet dander, etc from the air allowing you to inhale healthy air. Along with this, it also saves you from multiple allergies.
There are various air purifiers available at OLX, if you are interested in buying one, do visit the website.
Wear Face Masks
As smog covers the whole city, the air quality keeps deteriorating and people are left with no choice but to inhale unhealthy air. Since none of us can avoid going out for a very long time, it is best that you start using a fabric face covering or a face mask.
These masks save us from hazardous health issues and prevent harmful gasses from entering into our lungs.
Detoxify Your Lungs
One of the biggest favors that you can do to yourself during the smoggy season is detoxifying your lungs. It may sound a little tricky but it is extremely easy. All you have to do is consume Jaggery.
Popularly known as Gurr, Jaggery can be added in your food or can be eaten raw as well.
Stay Hydrated
Another extremely easy method of detoxifying your lungs is keeping your body hydrated. It is suggested that you consume plenty of liquids, especially water, so that the pollutants present in your body could be flushed out.
Take Healthy Diet
People who specialize in the field of health, recommend adding detoxifying foods to your diet as it increases your immunity. Add vitamin C, omega fatty acids and magnesium rich foods to your diet.
Also, increase your fruit and nuts intake.
Keep Your Surroundings Clean
The idea of having plants and planting trees can never be stressed enough. It is ideal if you keep plants at your home as they play a vital role in keeping the environment healthier and breathable.
If you are interested in buying, there are various plants available on OLX as well.
Along with this, as per the recommendations of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you should mop your floor to reduce dust.
That is about it! We hope this guide will help you protect yourself and your dear ones from smog. If you have any other suggestions, feel free to drop them in the comments section below.
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