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Pollution has increased significantly in many areas of the country. To get relief from this, people are using air purifiers. These are installed in homes and offices. But before using them, it is important to know that they can also harm health. AIIMS doctor has told about this. He has said that it is important to keep some things in mind while buying a purifier. Not doing this may result in loss instead of profit. There is especially a risk of serious impact on the lungs.
Dr. Himanshu Bhadani in Pediatric Department at AIIMS pointed out that air purifier There are some to clean the air, but there are some that release ozone gas. This gas enters the lungs through breath and causes harm to the body. Dr. Himanshu says that ozone is the same gas that prevents the harmful UV rays of the sun from falling directly on the earth, but the ozone gas that comes out from any equipment and is in the surrounding environment is considered dangerous for the body. Even in small quantities, this gas can be a health hazard.
What effect does ozone have on the lungs?
Dr. Bhadani says that electric charge is used in the purifier, in which ozone gas is also formed which dissolves in the air and goes into the lungs. This also causes the problem of burning sensation in the chest. Continuous exposure to ozone can cause breathing problems and even swelling in the lungs. WHO also has guidelines that ozone air inside the house causes serious damage to the lungs.
Which people are at greater risk?
Dr. Bhadani says that children below 1 year of age are most at risk from air purifiers containing ozone. Because their immunity is weak and the lungs are also developing. Ozone exposure in such children can reduce their lung capacity. Apart from children, patients suffering from asthma, COPD and bronchitis are also seriously affected. Their problems may increase compared to before.
How to recognize if your purifier is releasing ozone?
If ionizer is written on the purifier, then understand that ozone comes out from it. Do not buy any such device. Instead, buy only purifiers with HEPA written on them. Ozone is not released from these and they are not hazardous to health in any way.