Many individuals invest considerable time and energy in preserving their well-being. We hydrate, utilize fitness monitors, strive for optimal sleep, and take supplements. We recognize the importance of moderating sugar, alcohol, tobacco, unhealthy fats, and sodium—decisions within our control. Nonetheless, when it involves air, we must inevitably breathe continuously for survival.
This situation is generally acceptable, but with the rising frequency of wildfire smoke across the U.S., obtaining clean air is becoming increasingly difficult. In regions susceptible to wildfire smoke, it may permeate homes, impacting indoor air quality.
While avoiding doom and gloom, extended exposure to wildfire smoke is detrimental. It can result in headaches, dizziness, and eye irritation, and even lead to serious conditions like permanent lung damage, as indicated by Yale Medicine.
To address this, think about incorporating an air purifier into your residence. These small, often quiet devices can eliminate smoke particles from the air, enabling you to enjoy clean air while you carry on with your daily tasks.
### How detrimental is wildfire smoke to our health?
Several airborne pollutants can cause physical discomfort, such as elevated pollen counts in spring or smoke in a casino. The Centers for Disease Control indicates that wildfire smoke can trigger breathing difficulties, headaches, fatigue, coughing, and wheezing. Individuals with asthma, heart disease, or diabetes are at higher risk, as are children and expectant mothers.
Even if you feel alright, smoke particles can penetrate the bloodstream, according to Yale Medicine, potentially impacting organs such as the heart and liver. Prolonged exposure to PM 2.5 may elevate the risk of cancer, heart attacks, and cognitive problems.
Animals can also be impacted by smoke. The American Veterinary Medical Association points out that if humans can detect smoke, so can pets, particularly those with cardiovascular or respiratory issues.
### The advantages of an air purifier
If your area is subjected to wildfire smoke, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends keeping windows and doors sealed. Nevertheless, smoke can still infiltrate through openings and vents. A portable air purifier can assist in diminishing harmful particles indoors.
Air purifiers operate by taking in air and cycling it through a filtration system. High-quality models generally employ a HEPA filter (High Efficiency Particulate Air) alongside additional filters. A pre-filter catches dust and hair, ensuring the HEPA filter remains cleaner. HEPA filters can eliminate 99.97% of tiny particles that are not visible but can cause discomfort, including wildfire smoke, cigarette smoke, traffic pollution, pollen, and dust, according to the EPA.
### Comprehending particulate matter
When searching for air purifiers, you’ll observe they frequently mention capturing particulate matter (PM). PM is assessed by diameter, and the majority of purifiers monitor PM 10 and PM 2.5 levels. For reference, a human hair has a diameter of 50 to 70 microns, as per the EPA.
– **PM 10**: Comprised of dust, pollen, mold, and certain wildfire smoke particles.
– **PM 2.5**: These minuscule particles, prevalent in wildfire smoke, measure 2.5 microns in diameter.
Due to their minuscule size, PM can enter the bloodstream and deposit in the lungs, according to Yale Medicine.
### Do air purifiers assist with allergies and viruses?
HEPA filters are intended to eliminate harmful particles, lessening pollen, dust, and even some viruses. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America asserts that HEPA filters can reduce airborne allergens brought indoors through open windows, clothing, or pets.
During the cold and flu season, a HEPA filter can prove beneficial. Although not all virus particles are sizable enough for HEPA filters to capture, many travel in larger respiratory droplets, which can be filtered out. While an air purifier cannot assure you won’t fall ill after being exposed to someone who is sick, it may decrease the risk.