Air pollution is an environmental issue that warrants attention. It can have negative effects on health, disrupting daily activities, such as dry skin, coughs and cold, shortness of breath, and more.
In recent times, air pollution levels have increased in several regions of Indonesia.
Worsening air quality and pollution today have been particularly evident in populated areas, including Jakarta.
Therefore, understanding the various harmful effects of air pollution on health is essential as a precautionary measure.
To better understand the effects of air pollution, let’s explore the article below.
What Is Air Pollution?
Air pollution refers to the contamination of air by harmful particles and substances.
When the pollution levels exceed the normal range, it can affect environmental aesthetics, comfort, and pose a risk to the health of humans, animals, or plants.
This condition can occur because of several uncontrolled human activities, such as vehicle emissions, the burning of fossil fuels, industrial processes, and mining activities.
Effects of Air Pollution
Air pollution that continues to worsen today often raises public concern.
This is because over time, prolonged air pollution can lead to various health impacts, including:
1. Coughs and Colds
Although generally considered mild symptoms, coughs and colds are one of the health effects of air pollution that can disrupt daily activities.
This condition can occur when an individual experiences rhinitis or allergic reactions to air pollutants, such as particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂).
2. Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath is one of the most common health effects of air pollution.
Inhaled pollutants can irritate the respiratory tract, triggering shortness of breath and even chest pain.
Additionally, air pollutants can increase the risk of other respiratory disorders, such as asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
3. Dry Skin
The next effect of air pollution on health is skin irritation. This condition is marked by dry, flaky, red, and irritated skin.
Moreover, for people who have an allergy to air pollution, the effects that may appear include red rashes, hives, and itching.
4. Red Eyes
When air pollutants come into contact with the eyes, they can cause irritation, leading to red, dry, or watery eyes.
To prevent this condition, you are recommended to wear sunglasses or other protective eyewear during activities in areas with high levels of air pollution.
5. Neurodegenerative Disease
Neurodegenerative disease is a neurological condition caused by a decline in the brain’s function.
Common examples of neurodegenerative diseases include Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia. These conditions can be triggered by several factors, one of which is air pollution.
Tips to Protect Yourself from Air Pollution
To avoid the harmful effects of air pollution, it is recommended to follow the steps below:
1. Applying Sunscreen
Applying sunscreen regularly can prevent the skin from dryness and dullness caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) sun rays.
To use sunscreen, you can apply it evenly to all exposed skin 15–10 minutes before going outdoors.
It is also important to make sure to use a product with a minimum SPF 30 for optimal protection.
2. Drinking Enough Water
Another effective tip for dealing with air pollution is to drink enough water.
Drinking enough water helps keep your respiratory tract and lungs well-maintained.
Proper hydration may also help the body naturally eliminate unwanted substances.
3. Wearing a Mask During Outdoor Activities
Concerned about today’s environment conditions and air pollution may cause respiratory problems?
To prevent this, you can wear an anti-pollution mask whenever you have outdoor activities.
This is because anti-pollution masks are considered effective in filtering air and harmful substances from being inhaled into the body.
Those are several effects of air pollution on health that you should be aware of.
As previously stated, drinking enough water is one of the effective ways to minimize the impacts of air pollution.
Staying well hydrated helps support the body’s metabolism to function optimally in removing pollutants and toxins that enter the body.
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