Humidity, pollen and dirty air-conditioning units are largely to blame
If you’re reading this while sneezing and rubbing your eyes, you’re not the only one. High humidity, pollen and poorly maintained air-conditioning units are causing more allergic reactions, such as sneezing and coughing, during the summer, according to doctors. A potent cocktail of contributing factors has created a miserable period for some, as more time is spent indoors during the summer. Pollen, poorly maintained AC units and dust mites embedded in carpets and bedding can cause runny noses, itchy eyes and even breathing difficulties.
Poor air quality a driving force
Poor air quality due to pollution and dust is often worse in warmer weather. The air quality index combines measurements of five environmental pollutants to rate how safe it is to go outside, particularly for people with chronic respiratory conditions, and the more vulnerable such as the elderly and young children. An AQI green reading of 0-50 is considered safe, whereas colours from yellow, orange and red show the air is getting more polluted and can impact existing breathing problems. A purple reading of 201-300 AQI is very unhealthy, while the most dangerous rating of more than 300 (maroon) means outdoor exertion should be avoided by everyone.
Dr Kiran Kumar Rai, head of paediatrics at Burjeel Day Surgery Centre, Reem Island, said regular maintenance of air-conditioning units can help to reduce symptoms indoors.
“The main allergies [during the summer] are caused by air conditioning, particularly in children who are spending more time indoors,” he said.
“In other parts of the world, it usually happens in spring from pollen and flowering plants. Here, it is more likely a result of the indoor environment and also dust and sand in the air outside.
“It can be a problem when it is windy, as fine particles of dust can cause an allergic response,” Dr Rai said.
“People should try and stay inside at this time, or at least wear a face mask if they need to go out then.
“If there is fungal mould, particularly in the AC ducts at home or in the office, it will cause a reaction so they should be cleaned regularly.”
Hisham Jaber, co-founder of The Healthy Home, a company cleaning air-conditioning systems in the UAE said summer is a busy time.
“Most people don’t know that their home can be two to five times more polluted than outside, which can have very strong impacts on their health, and trigger asthma and allergies,” he said.
“Dust particles and other debris accumulate in the AC filters over time.
“Clogged filters no longer play their role and, as a result, allow dust to enter the house.
“Cleaner filters can play an important role in reducing the allergic irritation and discomfort commonly associated with seasonal transitions.”
Read Full Story: TheNationalNews
