home » Accessories » High humidity is harmful to health and destroys the apartment. High air humidity in apartments - about the effect of what to do with the room The effect of low humidity on a person

High humidity is harmful to health and destroys the apartment. High air humidity in apartments - about the effect of what to do with the room The effect of low humidity on a person

Almost all weather forecasts mention relative humidity. This indicator tells how much percentage of water vapor is in the air from the maximum possible amount under given conditions (temperature and pressure). Why do we need information about humidity in everyday life and how can humidity affect human health?

The human body for the most part consists of water, therefore, most of the processes in it take place with the participation of liquid. For the same reason, the moisture in the air affects the body. Everyone felt for themselves that high or low humidity changes the perception of temperature.

The humidity index, in which a person feels comfortable, ranges from 30 to 60%. It depends on temperature, level physical activity and even from age. For example, babies do not tolerate dry air very well, and moisture has a beneficial effect on their skin and mucous membranes, and makes breathing easier.

Let's consider separately the effect of high and too low humidity on the body and human health.

High humidity

Moisture-saturated warmth ideal conditions for the development of bacteria and all kinds of fungi, which can lead to the emergence and strengthening allergic reactions.
The high concentration of moisture does not allow the human body to maintain normal temperature- the thermoregulation mechanism does not work properly. The human body uses perspiration to cool itself. Sweat evaporates from the surface of the skin and removes excess heat. But if they have nowhere to evaporate? Then the body begins to work with increased strength, and this leads to the opposite result - overheating. Lethargy, vomiting, loss of consciousness, severe blood viscosity and, as a result, heart problems are possible. Even oxygen starvation of the brain is possible.
People suffering from atherosclerosis, hypertension, all kinds of diseases cardiovascular systems You should be especially careful in hot, high humidity conditions. There is the possibility of a sharp exacerbation of disease and uncontrolled seizures.
High humidity combined with low temperature is dangerous due to excessive hypothermia and frostbite. This can happen around 0 ° C, and not only with a minus.

Reduced humidity

With excessive dry air, the body begins to vigorously evaporate moisture, which can cause the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose and eyes to dry out.
For asthmatics, too dry air is also extremely harmful, they begin to feel worse, and exacerbations of the disease are possible.
A sufficiently long stay in dry air threatens with a decrease in immunity and frequent respiratory diseases. This happens due to the fact that overdried mucous membrane interferes with normal breathing, as a result of which the body does not receive enough oxygen.

Unfortunately, we cannot influence the air humidity outside. But in your home, office or apartment it is quite possible to create a comfortable microclimate. After all, constant humidity, both high and low, can lead to many negative consequences: poor health, fatigue, various diseases, up to tuberculosis and rheumatism.

Often the concept of "humidity" is associated with phenomena that have a negative connotation.

In fact, many of our ideas about moisture are erroneous and based on superficial knowledge of what it really is.

The purpose of the article is to examine the most common "false myths" about moisture, to understand that it is more important (and even more valuable) than we think.

In fact, there is often a need to create and maintain this air parameter using humidifiers.

It's foggy outside

One cubic meter of outdoor air at 0 ° C and 75% relative humidity contains 2.9 grams of water vapor; the same air heated to 20 ° C ( average temperature in the house) without added water vapor has a relative humidity of 20%, which is too low for wellness! Actually, the minimum relative humidity required for human comfort and health is about 45% -50%.

Relative humidity depends on temperature: the more the air heats up, the lower the relative humidity.

For example, in winter outside air at a temperature of 0 ° C on a foggy day(100% relative humidity), heated in a room up to 22 ° C, gives out a relative humidity of 23%. In places with very dry winters, say, with an outside temperature of 0 ° C and a relative humidity of up to 30%, when the air is heated to 22 ° C, the relative humidity drops to 7%.

As a result, even if it is foggy outside (there is a lot of moisture in the air), this is not a guarantee that the humidity level inside the heated room will be correct.

To achieve the optimum humidity, the air must be humidified.

Humidity and cold sensation

There is also a physiological effect of humidity that is often overlooked: the effect on the perception of heat or cold. We all know that sweating is an important part of the body's thermoregulation process: evaporation of sweat removes heat, thereby cooling us down.

In summer, when it's hot, increased sweating keeps our skin at a comfortable temperature. High humidity prevents evaporation (stuffiness), while dry air favors this process.

In winter, dry air promotes evaporation and thus cools the skin. The immediate effect of this phenomenon is that at the same temperature, the drier the air, the colder it seems to us.

Under typical heated room conditions "Apparent temperature"(i.e. subjective perception of temperature associated with personal comfort) increases by about 2 ° C if the relative humidity rises from 25% to 50%... In other words, if the humidity is at the correct level, in addition to all the other benefits, we can save on heating the room.

The effect of dry air on people and objects

Humidity is also very important for human health.

One of the problems caused by low humidity is the sensation of eye irritation. dryness of the cornea, which is often a serious problem for people who wear contact lenses. The amount of moisture in the air affects our skin, hands and face dry out and chapped at low humidity, primarily as they are in direct contact with dry air.

Another problem is dryness of the mucous membrane in the airways, which can lead to an aggravation of asthma and allergy sufferers, and generally reduces the body's defenses.

Examples of the negative impact of low humidity on objects and things can be cited endlessly. "Hygroscopicity" is a term specific to materials whose particles absorb moisture, which leads to a change in their size. Such materials include paper, fabrics, some types of plastic, wood, fruits, vegetables and other materials that tend to absorb or release moisture.

Besides, humidity affects physical characteristics materials such as viscosity (eg photoresist in microelectronics), mechanical strength / fragility (textiles, tobacco, woodworking) and electrostatic charges (paper, textiles and electronics).

Sources of moisture in our home

We have many sources of moisture at home, from clothes hung out to dry to boiling water used to make pasta.

Moreover, people enter and leave the house, windows open, walls exude moisture, not to mention the appearance of small cracks and holes. One little known fact is that a small amount fresh air that enters the house when the window is opened has little effect on the room temperature, but causes a strong decrease in the relative humidity.

In other words , water vapor "escapes" much faster than heat, due to physical properties gases.

The paradox is that airing the room in winter without additional humidification reduces the quality of the air, making it too dry.

Besides, water containers placed indoors or attached to radiators are useless, because too little water evaporates.

To check this, measure the humidity using a simple wall-mounted hygrometer, with and without an additional container with water - the difference will be negligible.

Air humidity, significantly affecting the heat exchange between the body and the environment, is of great importance for human life.

People usually feel better in humid air. Optimal for us is a relative humidity of 45 to 55% at a temperature of 18 to 24 ° C. Do you know what is common between the Sahara Desert and an ordinary apartment with central heating? Air humidity! Only 20-25%!

A person develops a sore throat, dry skin, a runny nose and general fatigue. But it's not just about comfort. Dry air is also a direct threat to health: the body is in dire need of oxygen, and hence fatigue, inability to concentrate, increased load on the heart.

The skin ages faster. Microbes can easily settle on dry mucous membranes of the nose and throat, which means that you catch colds more often. Not only our health depends on the air, but also our psychological attitude. In some rooms, we do not feel very well, although we cannot understand the reasons for this.

At the same time, a person, on average, spends more than 20 hours a day in enclosed spaces. Humans are highly susceptible to moisture. The intensity of moisture evaporation from the skin surface depends on it.

At high humidity, especially on a hot day, the evaporation of moisture from the surface of the skin decreases and therefore the thermoregulation of the human body becomes difficult.

In dry air, on the contrary, there is a rapid evaporation of moisture from the surface of the skin, which leads to drying out of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract.

In air with high relative humidity, evaporation slows down and cooling is negligible. Heat is more difficult to tolerate when the air humidity is high. Under these conditions, it is difficult to remove heat due to moisture evaporation.

Therefore, overheating of the body is possible, disrupting the vital functions of the body. For optimal heat transfer of the human body at a temperature of 20-25 ° C, a relative humidity of about 50% is most favorable.

Thus, the following conclusion can be drawn:

At low temperatures and high air humidity, heat transfer increases and a person is exposed to more cooling.
At high temperatures and high air humidity, heat transfer is sharply reduced, which leads to overheating of the body. High temperatures are more easily tolerated when the air humidity is low.
Most favorable for a person in the middle climatic conditions the relative humidity is 40-60%.
To eliminate the adverse effect of air humidity in rooms, ventilation, air conditioning, etc. are used.

that everyone wants to look attractive, long time stay young and beautiful. Our hair, in dry air, evaporating moisture, becomes thinner and cracks, splits at the ends and breaks off easily when combing. The hairstyle in this case looks terrible.
Heating devices operating in winter period, dry the air and cause moisture to evaporate from the skin. Dry air, like a sponge, seeks and absorbs moisture wherever it meets. Our skin is no exception.

In order to completely avoid dry skin in winter, it is enough not to expose it to the dry air that occurs during the operation of heating devices. For this, the relative humidity in the room must be at least 50%. In winter, it is usually no more than 20%. To maintain the desired level of humidity, you can hang out wet towels or put a bath with hot water on the battery.
Our body is two-thirds water, so the relative humidity of the air affects health and well-being. The lower the humidity, the faster the respiration evaporates, which helps to cool the body. The consequence of dry air is the body's susceptibility to colds.
Colds and runny nose spread by airborne droplets or through physical contact with a sick person. The main function of the skin is to act as a barrier to bacteria. If the skin and mucous membranes of the nasopharynx are dry (and they lose moisture when exposed to dry air), then the barrier becomes less effective.

Dry air weakens the immune system in general and exacerbates skin allergies. In addition, it causes dust to fly around the room, and dust particles enter the respiratory system, which can lead to lung disease.

In order to bind small dust particles, you need to either do wet cleaning daily or install a humidifier in the room. A humidifier helps to bind fine dust particles and prevents the spread of harmful bacteria.

The temperature for classrooms should not be lower than 16 - 18 ◦С for a sports hall - 16 ◦С; for recreation, corridors, flights of stairs, dining rooms - 14 ° C. The relative humidity in rooms and school premises should be 40 - 60%.

Insufficient humidity in the room may be indicated by appearance indoor plants... In dry air, plants begin to evaporate more water through the stomata on the leaves, and their water balance is disturbed:

Leaves wrinkle or curl.
The tips of the leaves turn brown and dry out. This can often be observed, for example, in the ficus Benjamin, nephrolepis, and also cyperus.
Young leaves do not fully develop.
The buds do not open or fall off.
Some pests are especially likely to attack plants if the air is too dry. These include primarily spider mites, thrips, and whitefly.

There are several ways to increase the humidity in the room.

Spraying is one way to increase the humidity in the room. With this simple and effective method you can increase the humidity in the immediate vicinity of the plant. It is best to spray the plant in the morning to dry the leaves during the day.

To increase humidity, humidifiers are used: an ultrasonic air humidifier, a cold fan humidifier (drives air through a wet filter), steam humidifiers are similar in principle to electric kettles. Plants can help themselves perfectly if they are grouped so that plants that evaporate a lot of moisture are next to those that prefer high air humidity.

High humidity also at any temperature is bad for human health. It can be caused by large indoor plants or not regularly ventilated. At higher temperatures, a moisture content of about 20% is preferred.

In weaving, confectionery and other industries for normal flow process requires a certain humidity (see table 1).

Table 1. Several processes and industries requiring air humidity control

Storing art and books requires maintaining the air humidity at the required level. Therefore, in museums you can see psychrometers on the walls.

Any food product is indicated with the acceptable relative humidity value for storage.

Optimal and permissible parameters of temperature and relative humidity in the premises of educational and preschool institutions are presented in table 2.

table 2

Note : air speed - no more than 0.1 m / s.

Knowledge of humidity in meteorology is essential for predicting the weather.

Each area has its own climate. We get so used to the climatic conditions of living in our region and rarely think about what harm or benefit they have on health. We propose to deal with this issue in this article.

So what is climate? This aggregate concept includes a list of natural factors, such as air temperature and humidity, altitude, wind strength, sunlight and others, characteristic of a particular area. Weather is understood as the state of the lower atmospheric layer in a specific area at a specific period of time. The weather is set under the influence of climatic factors, which, in turn, have a different effect on a person's well-being on health: they can strengthen the immune system, and they can cause diseases, but keyword here - influence!

In the course of its existence, the body adapts to changing environmental conditions due to adaptive reactions, and 2-3 weeks are enough to adapt to a new climate without stress. Moreover, a person is able to adapt to the most extreme conditions (a vivid example is glacial period), but this takes time, much more than a couple of weeks. And when this time is not there, adaptive reactions become destructive, for example, when a person goes on vacation to the tropics in winter: in addition to a sharp change in climate, biological rhythms fail (desynchronosis), and one thing aggravates the other.

Dependence on weather factors exists, and in some people it is very strong. The strength of the body's response to changes in environmental factors is called "meteotropic response". All people with increased sensitivity to climatic factors are divided into 2 categories:

Meteorological. Feel bad when the weather changes, changes in atmospheric pressure, sudden changes in temperature, etc. The condition returns to normal when the weather returns to normal.
People who do not tolerate a certain climate or a factor characteristic of the climatic zone: high humidity, strong wind, low temperature, etc. These factors cause a number of diseases. The condition improves only with a change in climate.

Increase weather dependence:

chronic diseases;
dysfunction of the heart and blood vessels;
stress;
hypodynamia;
children and old age;
characteristics of the individual.

Weather and climate have an impact even on those whose bodies do not respond to weather changes. Some "common" diseases are exacerbated during a certain period of the year: colds, viral diseases and inflammatory processes of the respiratory system most often occur in winter and in the off-season, and the height of intestinal infections occurs in the summer.

It is a well-known fact that with a number of diseases, a person becomes much easier after recovering in the recommended climatic conditions. Many methods of balneological treatment are based on this: health resorts and sanatoriums located in a certain area invite a narrow category of patients for recovery.

Today there is a separate direction in medicine - climatotherapy, rooted in history. The influence of weather and climatic factors on health began to be studied in the 18th century. Even then, many climatic resorts appeared, where people with tuberculosis and nervous diseases were treated.

Before the active development of synthetic pharmacology, the treatment of many diseases was carried out precisely in health resorts, which have now transformed from places of treatment into places of rest. However, the importance of climatotherapy is increasing every year, especially as many people are switching to natural, natural therapies, thereby reducing the drug burden on the body.

Mountain (not alpine!) Climate positively affects the state of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems and is recommended for patients with bronchitis, chronic inflammatory processes in the lungs, bronchial asthma, pulmonary tuberculosis, anemia, as well as for children and adults with reduced immunity. It has a positive effect on the treatment of diseases of the nervous system and is especially recommended for asthenics.
The sea climate enhances immunity and improves the adaptive capacity of the body. Recommended for patients suffering from diseases of the respiratory system, metabolism, nervous system, thyroid dysfunction and pathologies of the musculoskeletal system (in autumn and spring, when the air temperature is not yet high).
Forest-steppe climate with its characteristic moderate humidity and insignificant temperature difference, it is most favorable for patients with vascular and heart diseases.
The desert climate is characterized by dry air and high air temperatures. It causes intense sweating, and with sweat, salts come out, which has a positive effect on the standing of people with certain kidney diseases.
Forest climate middle lane predominantly coniferous forest optimal for the treatment of diseases of the respiratory system (including bronchial asthma) and the nervous system, hypertension, ischemic heart disease. Lots of essential oils heals the respiratory tract, improves blood circulation and has a positive effect on the immune system.

The most popular sanatoriums are located in places with the intersection of several resort areas, which significantly increases the effectiveness of the treatment of a wide range of diseases. The combination of mountain and maritime climate (Black sea coast Caucasus, Abkhazia, South coast of Crimea).

People with increased meteosensitivity cannot live and work in conditions Far north and the equatorial climate - the body will experience tremendous stress! It is recommended to undergo preventive treatment in health resorts located in climatic zone accommodation.

Let's consider the influence of certain climatic factors on the state of health.

Influence of temperature factors on the body

The intensity of thermoregulation and metabolism directly depends on the air temperature. For example, when T is below 18 degrees, our energy is spent on heating the body, and the metabolic rate increases compensatory. At elevated temperatures, metabolism is slowed down, superficial vessels are dilated for better heat transfer, water evaporation increases both from the pulmonary alveoli and from the skin surface: all these mechanisms help to avoid overheating. The optimal, physiological level for the body is considered to be 18-20 C.

Temperature depends on the height above sea level, latitude, seasons, therefore it is never constant, and the human body constantly adapts to its change, reacting to the differences in a purely individual way.

Consider the positive and negative impact different temperatures on health

Positive	Negative	How to avoid negative influences
High temperatures
blood circulation improves due to the penetration of heat into the body to a depth of 5 cm and vasodilation; improves metabolism and tissue nutrition. Increased vascular permeability determines easier penetration of nutrients into tissues and removal of metabolic products from the intercellular space; the analgesic effect is realized by reducing the sensitivity of the nerve endings located in the superficial areas of muscle tissue and in the skin.	overheating reduces immunity. Long-term exposure elevated temperatures reduces the activity of lymphocytes. That is why in hot summer months there is a high incidence of ARVI; worsens general state... The central nervous system reacts to high temperatures (above 28 C) with weakness, drowsiness and loss of strength; skin inflammatory reactions develop due to the expansion of pores and increased secretion of fat and sweat, i.e. optimal conditions are created for the penetration of bacteria into the skin.	avoid overheating, especially for children and the elderly; wear natural clothing, protect your head from the sun. Linen clothing is optimal and is known to cool when worn; observe the drinking regime: constantly drink clean drinking water, but in small portions.
Low temperatures
the body is hardened. A short exposure to cold has a stimulating effect on the immune system and reduces the risk of developing respiratory pathologies. The stress that develops in the body due to low temperatures, leads to the release of cortisol, which enhances metabolism and increases the activity of the immune system; decreases sensitivity to cold. In conditions low temperatures the vessels of the skin are compensatory narrowed, reducing the loss of heat; slows down the processes of cellular aging and accelerates the production of collagen; the growth of pathogenic flora stops. Microbes that live in soil, food and water stop multiplying at temperatures below 0 C; body weight decreases. In the cold, metabolism is activated and the breakdown of fats is accelerated.	the body's defenses are reduced with prolonged hypothermia. In areas sensitive to cold (mucous membrane of the bronchi, throat and nose), vasospasm occurs, and this leads to the development of an inflammatory reaction; cold allergy like urticaria may develop. This is due to the deposition of insoluble proteins in the skin, which are formed against the background of the action of low temperatures. It is characteristic for people with helminthic invasion, systemic lupus erythematosus, liver and biliary tract pathologies.	avoid hypothermia; prepare with hardening procedures gradually: take a contrast shower, use douche, contrast rubdown, gradually lowering the temperature of the water.

Recently, nature loves to "joke", so snow in May or warm January is already perceived calmly. But the body is not used to such leaps. Abnormal warming, which occurs in winter, develops due to the invasion of warm air masses: atmospheric pressure decreases, humidity increases, oxygen level in the air decreases. Therefore, even healthy people during this period feel overwhelmed and drowsy, and some have exacerbated chronic diseases. During this period, it is recommended to rest more, avoid stress, and refuse heavy food.

Effects of moisture on health and immunity

Air humidity is formed by microscopic particles of water dissolved in the environment. Humidity directly depends on the air temperature: the higher it is, the more moisture is in suspension. Normal rates are 60-80%. Low humidity less than 55% negatively affects mucous membranes and skin, which dry out and lose their protective properties. High humidity interferes with the normal evaporation of sweat, which makes a person difficult to tolerate heat and increases the risk of heatstroke. In addition, at high humidity, subzero temperatures are also poorly tolerated.

Positive effect of normal humidity

Normal humidity supports the local immunity of the respiratory tract, which means it protects against the penetration of pathogens into the respiratory system.
Improves the synthesis of bronchopulmonary secretions. The cilia of the ciliated epithelium remove mucus to the outside, along with bacteria, allergens and dust.

Negative impact

High humidity:

dramatically increases the risk of overheating and hypothermia: frostbite of the legs, arms, face and other parts of the body may be already at a temperature of -5-10 C;
increases the risk colds as it weakens the immune system. Also, unnecessarily wet air always has a high content of viruses, bacteria and fungal spores;
leads to a deterioration in the condition of people with diseases of bones and joints, lungs;
coupled with high fever causes fatigue, irritability and discomfort.

Low humidity:

leads to drying out of the mucous membranes, which is manifested by sharp eyes, nosebleeds, nasal congestion, frequent colds;
increases the risk of respiratory diseases: mucus, thickening and stagnating in the nose and bronchi, becomes a good environment for the multiplication of viruses, bacteria and the accumulation of allergens;
leads to disruption of ionic equilibrium, and positively charged ions become predominant in the body;
worsens the condition of allergy sufferers and asthmatics.

To prevent the negative impact of this factor on health, you should:

maintain normal indoor humidity. To track indicators, there are special devices - hygrometers. In dry air, it must be humidified by airing or using a special humidifier, and with excessive moisture, it must be slightly dried;
regularly ventilating the premises - this contributes to the formation of a healthy environment.

Effect of atmospheric pressure on immunity

A conventional indicator is adopted as a unit of atmospheric pressure, which denotes air pressure per unit area. Normal indicators are 760-770 mm Hg. When the weather changes, most often there are slight fluctuations in atmospheric pressure, which are balanced by the internal pressure. Air moves out of the zone high pressure to the low zone in order to balance the difference, and as a result, anticyclones, cyclones, fogs, etc. appear.

Significant leaps that occur with atmospheric fronts upon collisions of air currents with different temperatures, they can cause attacks of dizziness, migraines and jumps blood pressure... These negative manifestations associated with a slowdown in blood flow, which is compensated by the release of adrenaline and an increase in blood pressure. For meteorological people, the adrenaline rush causes unpleasant sensations. Thus, positive influence neither high nor low atmospheric pressure exerts.

Negative influence

Low atmospheric pressure (less than 750 mm Hg), which occurs during a cyclone	High atmospheric pressure (above 780 mm Hg), which develops during an anticyclone
General weakness, drowsiness, loss of strength, migraine, shortness of breath, digestive dysfunction (diarrhea and abdominal pain) are common manifestations that develop in people with low blood pressure, pathologies of the lungs and bronchi.	Deterioration of the well-being of allergy sufferers, asthmatics, hypertensive patients due to high air pollution and a large amount of impurities in it, which are manifested by heartaches, headaches, general weakness.
An additional load on the heart, blood vessels and brain due to the increase in the level of dissolved gases in the blood and tissues.	Persistent vasospasm (more often in a combination of high pressure and low temperatures), leading to a jump in blood pressure in hypertensive patients. And coupled with thickening of the blood, this carries a direct risk of stroke and heart attack, large quantity cases of which are just recorded at high atmospheric pressure.
Decreased heart rate, which leads to the development of tachycardia.	Decreased resistance to infections¸ which develops against the background of a decrease in leukocytes in the blood.

For meteosensitive people, it is not so important what pressure is established, but the very fact of a change in this weather factor (differences of 10-20 hP during the day are considered strong). To avoid changes in your state with surges in atmospheric pressure, especially for people with increased meteosensitivity, you should:

get enough sleep and avoid overwork;
do light gymnastics in the morning to improve blood circulation;
take a contrast shower, which improves the condition of the blood vessels;
follow a light, low-calorie diet and saturate the diet with potassium-containing foods: spinach, nuts, mushrooms, dried fruits;
it is very important for patients with chronic pathologies to follow all the doctor's recommendations and not miss taking medications.

Effect of wind speed on health

The wind familiar to us is the movement of air masses, during which the upper and lower layers of air are mixed, which reduces gas pollution and makes breathing easier. The optimal indicator is 1-4 m / s: with such a wind, heat exchange and thermoregulation occur at a physiological level.

Positive influence

Wind within 1-4 m / s reduces dustiness and air pollution in megalopolises, reduces the concentration of harmful chemicals and smog.
Coupled with warm weather(20-22 C) improves moisture evaporation from the skin, has a tonic effect on the body, activates internal reserves;
At a wind speed of 4-8 m / s, the functioning of the nervous, immune and endocrine systems improves, the body's resistance to infections improves;
Reduces the risk of overheating in the heat.

Negative impact

A wind of more than 20 m / s causes difficulty in breathing: it acts on the mechanoreceptors of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract and causes a reflex narrowing of the vocal cords and bronchi. Increases heat transfer, so cold is more noticeable in windy weather;
Causes anxiety and anxiety;
Increases the risk of colds. Wind, and especially drafts, cause muscle and vascular spasm in a local area of the body, after which inflammation, pain syndrome develops, and optimal conditions are created for the reproduction of bacteria. It is according to this scenario that neuralgia, runny nose, mild colds, exacerbation of chronic rheumatism, radiculitis often develop;
Dries up mucous membranes and skin, which worsen their protective properties... The skin begins to peel off, dries up, cracks, and the pathogenic flora easily penetrates microdamages.

avoid drafts;
dress for the weather.

Impact of air pollution on immunity

Residents of megalopolises breathe air polluted with particles of exhaust gases, emissions from factories and enterprises, coal combustion products, and dust. Together, these substances create a dangerous aerosol in the air, which increases the risk of developing coronary heart disease, thrombosis, bronchial asthma and other allergic diseases, inflammatory processes mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and oncological diseases... Smog poses a particular health hazard - a fog of harmful chemical particles that "hangs" over major cities in a weather without wind.

The air we breathe contains positively and negatively charged ions, the percentage of which depends on the season, the purity of the atmosphere, atmospheric pressure and other factors. Positively charged particles negatively affect a person, causing headaches, fatigue, general malaise and increase the risk of heart attack. Negatively charged ions accelerate wound healing, improve mood and well-being.

Positive impact

Naturally contaminated air has a positive effect on health.

Sea salts. The air on the coast of the sea is distinguished by high humidity and a special composition: it is saturated with salts and minerals from sea water. Such an air environment has a beneficial effect on the bronchi and lungs, reduces the likelihood of croup and exacerbation of bronchial asthma.
Some phytoncides, which are secreted by conifers (young pines, spruces, thuja, fir), as well as poplar and birch, have a detrimental effect on bacteria and fungi and stop their growth.
Negatively charged ions. There are especially many of them in the air after a thunderstorm, as well as near mountain waterfalls, on the banks of water bodies. Ions with a negative charge accelerate the recovery of the body after infections and injuries, normalize the condition of the mucous membranes lining the respiratory tract, and have a positive effect on the central nervous system.

Bad influence

Carbon monoxide and nitrogen monoxide causes oxygen starvation, leading to malaise and headaches. The main contribution to the formation of these compounds is made by vehicles and emissions. industrial enterprises.
Sulfur dioxide is a compound that irritates the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and eyes and reduces their protective properties. Causes conjunctivitis, bronchitis, heart and vascular disease. It is actively formed during the combustion of coal at thermal power plants and enters the air with industrial emissions.
Soot is a carcinogen. Its particles less than 5 microns are deposited in the alveoli and are no longer removed from there, causing lung disease. Formed by combustion of rubber, plastics, hydrocarbons.

How to avoid negative influence:

use high-quality, certified air purifiers and ionizers in the premises, not forgetting to change filters in a timely manner;
carry out scheduled replacement of filters in air conditioners;
walk as often as possible in parks remote from highways, or outside the city;
undergo speleotherapy sessions with a course of 10 procedures 2 times a year, especially for people suffering from allergic diseases of the nervous and respiratory systems;
regularly ventilate living quarters.

The effect of solar radiation on immunity

The aggregate of all the energy coming from the sun is called solar radiation. Highest value for the body has ultraviolet radiation, which, depending on the spectrum, penetrates to different depths in the tissue, having different effects on the body. More details about the effect of ultraviolet radiation are described in our separate article, we will focus on the main points that relate to immunity.

Positive influence

Sunlight is necessary for normal human life - not enough sunny days leads to a deficiency of serotonin and endorphins and depression, which negatively affects the immune system. Sufficient amount sunlight improves mood and stimulates brain activity.
It activates the work of all organs and systems, accelerates blood circulation and metabolism.
It activates the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin, which is involved in the metabolism of phosphorus and calcium, and a number of other processes.
Accelerates the treatment of skin diseases such as psoriasis, eczema, acne.
Has a detrimental effect on pathogenic microorganisms.
The warmth of the sun warms up and relaxes the muscles, relieves soreness.
Visible sun rays are directly involved in the work of the visual analyzer, provide color vision - are reflected from various subjects, fall on the retina and turn into nerve impulses, which are already analyzed by the brain.
Synchronize biorhythms, providing alternation of sleep and wakefulness.

Negative impact

The negative impact is associated with excessive exposure to sunlight on a person.

May lead to sunstroke, a dangerous condition that can be fatal.
Causes exacerbation of chronic diseases.
Suppresses immunity.
Causes sunburn and photodermatitis.
Reduces visual acuity.
Accelerates skin aging and dehydrates it.
Increases the risk of developing skin cancer and accelerates the progression of an existing cancer.

How to avoid negative influence:

exclude exposure to the open sun from 11 to 16 hours;
observe the drinking regime: at least 1.5-2 liters of clean water during the day;
use UV-protective products for the skin both while sunbathing and during daily activities, protect the head, body and eyes from direct sunlight: wear wide-brimmed hats, Sunglasses, natural clothes light colors;
follow the rules of a healthy tan.

Influence of the composition of water and soil on immunity

A person receives various minerals, macro- and microelements with water and food, the composition of which largely depends on the rocks of the soil: water passes through its layers and is saturated with elements, plants grow on the ground and also receive various components from it. The composition and amount of chemical elements often changes in a negative direction due to human economic activity.

Positive impact

Iodine ensures normal functioning thyroid gland, in particular, the production of iodine-containing hormones that regulate metabolic processes in the body. With iodine deficiency, an endemic goiter develops in the body.
Fluorine increases density bone tissue and teeth, and the lack of an element is the cause of caries.
Cobalt is involved in the synthesis and assimilation of vitamin B12, while its deficiency leads to a deficiency of this vitamin.

Negative impact

An excess of fluoride of more than 1.5 mg / l leads to the development of fluorosis: damage to the tooth enamel. This situation is typical for soil with mineral deposits, and also happens during the activities of enterprises producing nitrates, superphosphates, and aluminum.
Heavy metal salts such as zinc, lead, cadmium, mercury, which enter the soil and water with smoke and waste water industrial enterprises accumulate in the body and lead to severe poisoning.
Radioactive elements. The greatest contribution to the chemical pollution of water and soil was made by the Chernobyl accident. Radon, uranium, thorium, lead, radioactive iodine and other radionuclides emit gamma rays and irradiate humans, and also enter the body with water, food and cause cancer.
Soil contamination with bacteria, fungi, worm eggs and protozoa leads to the fact that they enter the body by contact-household, food and air, causing a number of diseases: helminthic invasions, dysentery, viral hepatitis, typhoid fever.

How to avoid negative influence:

try to buy environmentally friendly products;
drink purified (filtered) or bottled water, especially when in other countries. If this is not possible, it is allowed to boil tap water (as a temporary solution);
wash hands before eating with soap and food before eating.

Effect of altitude on immunity

With an increase in altitude, the concentration of oxygen in the air decreases. To restore the level of oxygen saturation of the blood, compensatory mechanisms are triggered: the heart rate and respiration rate increase, the level of red blood cells in the blood increases.

Positive impact

Mountain air is considered the cleanest: it is devoid of dangerous impurities, saturated with negatively charged ions. People living in mountainous areas have elevated level erythrocytes and the rapid response of the immune system to the introduction of the causative agent of the disease: immunoglobulins are synthesized at an increased rate. A priori, highlanders have minimized contacts with pathogens and their immunity is not weakened, unlike urban residents.
Clean air, uncontaminated soil and organic products have a positive effect on overall health.
The high level of solar radiation activates the synthesis of vitamin D, which, according to the latest research, is involved in stimulating the growth of immune cells that destroy cancer.

Negative impact

At an altitude of 4000 thousand meters above sea level and more, all cells of the body suffer from oxygen deficiency - the so-called altitude sickness occurs. Brain cells are most sensitive to hypoxia, therefore a person feels headache, dizziness, depression of mood. The myocardium suffers from a lack of oxygen - ischemic heart disease develops.
A decrease in atmospheric pressure leads to a spike in blood pressure and increases the risk of a heart attack.
Increase in solar radiation and attenuation magnetic field accelerates cell aging and slows down their regeneration.

How to avoid negative influence:

not to climb to an altitude of more than 4000 above sea level without special training;
when hiking in mountainous terrain, one should gradually adapt to new conditions, getting used to each new height ( middle period adaptation 3-14 days);
you can not climb the mountains with exacerbation of chronic diseases and the presence serious pathologies heart and blood vessels.

Effect of magnetic field on immunity

The static geomagnetic field is created by our planet and has an impact on health. The body also has its own magnetic field. The balance of magnetic fields leads to balance in the body and the maintenance of health. But there are weather-dependent people, and for them geo magnetic storms caused by sun outbreaks are hazardous to health.

Positive impact

The magnetic field is involved in maintaining daily biorhythms.
Strengthens the immune system (a decrease in the magnetic field increases the tendency to frequent diseases).
Improves vascular permeability, delivery nutrients and oxygen to the tissues.
Improves the functioning of the central nervous system.
Slows down the growth of tumors, in particular colon cancer.

Negative impact

Geomagnetic storms that occur 2-4 times a month:

Disrupt daily biorhythms, in particular, disrupt the synthesis of hormones that control daily activity and cause insomnia.
They change the emotional background - they cause bouts of anger, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.
Slow down the reaction rate and increase the risk of injury. At this time, the number of road accidents, accidents and incidents doubled.
They disrupt the work of the heart, causing tachycardia and increasing the risk of myocardial infarction (especially 1 day after the onset of storms). The vascular system is the most vulnerable: receptors in the walls of blood vessels pick up fluctuations in the magnetic field and resonate with them. This leads to a narrowing of the blood vessels in the brain, a slowdown in blood flow, an increase in blood pressure and blood viscosity, and these are the risks of dangerous acute heart diseases.

Some doctors and scientists believe that fluctuations in the magnetic field have a positive effect on biological processes: for many thousands of years, a person's internal clock has been coordinated with the rhythms of the sun and stars. Those. fluctuations in the magnetic field and solar flares are a kind of winding mechanism for the body and internal clock and keep the body in good shape. But such a positive effect is realized only if a person is completely healthy, and, alas, there are not many of them.

How to avoid negative impact during geomagnetic storms:

accept medications with a preventive purpose;
take acetylsalicylic acid preparations to reduce blood clotting;
take tincture of motherwort or valerian;
do not overeat, be away from fatty and hard-to-digest food, drink non-carbonated mineral water, vegetable juices;
do not wear clothes from natural fur or 100% synthetics (attracts electricity);
track forecasts of meteorologists: as a rule, they report the approach of a geomagnetic storm 2 days in advance.

Meteosensitive Note! There are places where magnetic storms and solar activity are especially strong: the upper atmosphere at an altitude of 9-11 km above the ground (when flying in an airplane) and in the north (Scandinavian Peninsula).

Influence of climate on children

Everyone knows that adaptive reactions to climate and weather changes (acclimatization) in children are more complicated and take a long period of time. A growing organism is the most vulnerable in this regard. Changing geographic latitudes leads to a crash in the immune system, and the respiratory system is the first to be hit.

Many children are imperfect defense mechanisms, and the younger the child, the stronger the reaction is the temperature drop, the intensity of solar radiation, the change in humidity, atmospheric pressure and other natural factors. And most often such a "blow" to the body occurs during a long-awaited vacation.

In order not to end up in a hospital ward instead of a pleasant rest, you should adhere to a number of recommendations:

Climate. Ideal seaside resorts with low humidity and not off scale temperatures: the northern shores of the Caspian Sea, Anapa, Gelendzhik, Italy, Greece and France.

This is the most soft conditions for acclimatization.

Timezone . The time difference should not exceed 2 hours. It is especially dangerous when the hands of the clock are moved much forward - the excitability of the central nervous system increases and hormonal imbalance may develop.
Duration of the trip... All pediatricians say that you shouldn't travel for less than 3 weeks. This is true - at least 5 days will be needed for adaptation, even if it goes unnoticed.

How to reduce the negative impact of climatic factors on immunity

The influence of a combination of climatic factors affects the well-being of different people in different ways. In the body of relatively healthy people, when the weather changes, the restructuring of physiological processes to the changed conditions occurs in a timely manner. In people with chronic diseases, the elderly and weather-sensitive, adaptive responses are weakened, so the body reacts to climate change. Nevertheless, meteorological dependence, even in an extreme degree of manifestation, is not a disease, but requires increased attention to yourself and your health.

To reduce meteorological dependence and improve adaptive responses to changing weather conditions recommended:

exercise regularly, at least 2-3 times a week, while reducing significant physical activity;
stay more outdoors in "clean" zones: in the forest, park;
tempered by choosing optimal way in accordance with the state of health;
periodically take vitamin and mineral complexes (vitamins A, E, C are especially important) or monitor the vitamin and mineral completeness of food;
get enough sleep, taking at least 7 hours a day to sleep;
take a course of general massage once every six months;
take soothing herbal remedies to reduce the excitability of the central nervous system (mint, lemon balm) or inhalation with mint and lavender, and in case of loss of strength - tinctures of Eleutherococcus, Schisandra fruit or ginseng;
give up alcohol and smoking, limit coffee and strong tea, replace them with herbal teas or high-quality green teas with honey;
include in the menu dishes from seaweed, fish, beans, lentils, beets, cranberries. It is recommended to drink freshly squeezed vegetable and fruit juices 30 minutes before meals, clean water with the addition of lemon juice.

However, these measures do not always bring relief, and people have to change their place of residence, move to another climatic zone.

01.10.2015

How much do we know about the effects of humidity on human health? Probably, most of us will immediately be able to remember how bad we feel in the heat, if there is high humidity outside. And someone more knowledgeable will say that low air humidity is also bad: especially if you catch a cold and start coughing. So where is the middle ground that you need to know about in order to avoid the negative effects of humid air on your health? Let's try to figure it out together.

Influence of low humidity

We all know that man is almost 90% water. Too dry air always causes peeling of our skin, dries out mucous membranes, due to which they become covered with microcracks. All this becomes the cause of infectious and inflammatory processes. It is also important that low humidity has a negative effect on heat exchange in the body. If the humidity level drops to 10%, then even perfectly healthy people will experience a feeling of dryness in the nasopharynx, the eyes will begin to ache and redden due to dryness, and some may even have nosebleeds.

For people who suffer from respiratory diseases (bronchial asthma, bronchitis, etc.), due to the low level of humidity, their well-being can greatly deteriorate, and attacks will become more frequent. And if you have bronchitis, it is because of the dry air that it can develop into pneumonia. Agree, not a very bright prospect.

As for the positive effect of humidity on human health, it is low level moisture in the air makes people feel more comfortable at very high temperatures. Yes and very coldy at low humidity it is much more comfortable than at high humidity.

Influence of high humidity

People who suffer from hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and atherosclerosis know better than anyone else about this side of the issue. When the humidity rises to 80% or more, they usually have worsening bouts of illness.

If we talk about absolutely healthy people, then at high humidity and an air temperature of + 25 ° C, the transfer of heat from the skin is disturbed, as a result of which the body can overheat. This is manifested by a feeling of stuffiness, heavy breathing, a deterioration in health, a decrease in working capacity. It has been proven that a person who is constantly in rooms with very high humidity is highly susceptible to the development of infectious and colds, kidney diseases, rheumatism and tuberculosis. In addition, in rooms with high humidity, mold and mildew actively develop, which infect the air we breathe.

Optimum humidity

To reduce the negative effect of humidity on human health, it is necessary to follow sanitary recommendations for the optimal level of air humidity. It is recommended to keep it at the level of 40-70%. This is an extremely important criterion for the microclimate. WITH special attention you need to treat this indicator if there are children in the house. A newborn baby in particular needs moist air around, otherwise his skin will dry out. In addition, moist air makes it easier for the baby to breathe and prevents mucus from drying out in the nose. Dry air for a baby is dysbiosis, impaired renal function, the appearance of allergic reactions, the development of chronic diseases.

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