haze health myths: what you need to know - air purifier for asthma

We help break some common health-
Myths and misconceptions about smog.
The myth of Hong Xinzhe's health was broken.
Read on and learn more about taking the right precautions during this hazy period.
Picture: Shutterstock/gang LiuAs pollutant level index (PSI)
In Singapore, you may still feel itchy throat and eyes from time to time.
While it may take a while for the smog to disappear, you don't have to panic or start hoarding the mask.
The smog period here in June 2013 clearly led to a shortage of breathing masks, when PSI reached a record high of more than 400, which is said to be the worst record in 16 years.
In particular, the N95 mask of 3 m Company is one of the best sellers, attracting the long queue of pharmacies and the list of reservations.
Take proper health precautions, but don't let the fear spread.
Except through the National Environment Agency (NEA)
Regarding the website for PSI updates and health tips, you should know how polluted air really affects your health. We asked Dr.
Karen Cai, 40, a family doctor in well family clinics and surgery, helped to eliminate some common misconceptions about smog.
Myth 1: everyone should wear the N95 mask. Not true;
It depends on your existing health and the severity of the smog.
Breathing masks such as N95 (which meets US-
Standard)and EN 149 (
European standard)
It is to seal your face with contaminated air stickers, and the contaminated air can only penetrate into the mask itself.
According to the National Environment Agency (NEA)
On the website, this breathing mask, as a filter, can prevent at least 95 per cent of fine particles (
Depending on its size)
Inhaled by the wearer.
"Healthy people don't need to wear N95 masks unless PSI rises to more than 300," Dr. Cai told Yahoo Singapore . ".
"If PSI rises to more than 200, vulnerable people, including children, elderly people and pregnant women, should consider wearing N95 masks when they are outdoors for more than a few hours.
She added: "At present, the FDA has not approved the use of N95 masks (
US Food and Drug Administration)and HSA (
Health science administration of Singapore)
For children, although older children may be suitable for the smallest adult size.
"As a result, since the mask limits the flow of air in the mouth and nostrils, it may make breathing more difficult than usual.
All in all, these masks should only be worn when necessary.
Call based on your current health and the time you spend outdoors.
You don't need to wear a sealed mask like N95 in an indoor office.
For ordinary healthy people, these masks are unnecessary during short trips (
Including commuting to school or office)
When only the brief smoke is exposed. Myth 2: Short-
Smog can lead to asthma.
In short, this is not true.
Long-term exposure to smog.
"While smog has been worsening in recent days, we need to remember that the long-term harmful effects on health can only occur when this exposure is a year --
Dr. Cai explained.
She added: "short-term exposure to deteriorating air is unlikely to lead to the development of long-term health problems.
However, people who already have chronic diseases such as asthma, heart disease may deteriorate in this case.
The same is true for children, who should still go to school because the risk is still "very low" in the short term"
Dr. Cai said it was exposed to smog for a long time.
In general, parents should follow the guidelines set by the Ministry of Education (MOE)
Outdoor activities decrease When PSI is 101
200. family doctors are recommended.
Outdoor sports should be canceled when PSI rises more than 201.
Myth 3: everyone needs an air purifier or an air ion generator at home.
This is not correct either.
In hazy weather, the effectiveness of the air purifier does depend on the type of filter inside the device.
"Air purifier with HEPA (
Efficient particles absolutely)
"It is well known that filters are helpful because they are able to filter very tiny particles," explains Dr. Cai . ".
"A good structure is important because the poor sealing of the HEPA filter will offset the perceived effect.
"The air purifier should also be well maintained: The filter should be replaced regularly so that it can effectively remove contaminants in the air.
According to NEA, the effectiveness of the air purifier also depends on the size of the device.
For example, small air purifiers may be suitable for bedrooms, while larger spaces such as living rooms or offices may require larger air purifiers.
For more information, a list of some suitable portable air purifiers can be found on the NEA website.
At the same time, keep your windows closed when the PSI level rises.
Be sure to open the windows and keep your home in good shape once the weather is getting better --ventilated.
Myth 4: I need to see a doctor right away.
Don't rush to the nearest clinic, and don't panic because of a little excitement.
Typically, most symptoms should be relieved within one to two days, Dr. Cai said, because these symptoms are usually related to allergies.
"People with a history of eczema may have eczema --
"During the smog, their condition will improve, and so will those with allergies to their eyes, nose and throat," explains Dr. Cai . ".
It should be noted that you still know your body best.
If the side effects of smog affect your dayto-
During the day's activities, you should consult a doctor to relieve these symptoms.
"If your sleep and work are affected by the stimulation, you should go to the doctor," Dr. Cai said . ".
"Vulnerable groups and people with chronic heart and lung diseases should also seek medical attention as soon as possible.