The effect and harm of dust on the human body

Arabia Weather - We are all exposed to the harmful effects of dust in its various forms. Although the human body has defense mechanisms to combat the dust around us, dust can, in some cases, pose a challenge to our health, especially if its size is small or the quantities are large. Let's take a look at some of the most prominent harms that dust may cause to your body:

The harmful effects of dust on the human body

Dust harms the respiratory system

Fine particles known as inhalable dust are easily inhaled through the nose and pharynx, where they accumulate in the lungs, which can cause serious respiratory problems. Inhaling dust can lead to allergic rhinitis, causing sneezing, runny nose, coughing and difficulty breathing, as well as headaches caused by sinus congestion.

An individual's exposure to dust also risks developing asthma, especially with certain types of dust such as flour, wood, and reactive dyes that may cause persistent bouts of coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. Dust accumulation in the lungs can also lead to pneumonia and exposure to silicosis, and the situation may develop into serious conditions such as lung cancer, which is life-threatening.

The damage caused by dust to the respiratory system is considered serious, and therefore preventing this damage is necessary to maintain the health of the body.

Dust damage to the skin

Dust particles accumulate on the skin, causing many allergic reactions, such as itching, peeling, redness, and dryness. It is worth noting that some types of dust contain carcinogenic chemicals, which can lead to serious health consequences.

Dust damage to the eyes

Exposure of the eyes to large amounts of dust can result in several uncomfortable effects, including itching accompanied by increased tear production, and general discomfort. This leads to allergies inside the eyes, as dust can play a role in triggering allergic conjunctivitis, which is characterized by runny nose, itching, and redness inside the eye.

Transmission of some infectious diseases

Dust carried in the air plays a role in transmitting some infectious diseases, including:

• Meningitis: Dust contributes to the transmission of meningococcus, which causes meningitis, a condition that affects the soft tissue surrounding the brain, leading to damage. Dust particles carry these cocci and contribute to their transmission, especially in environments with a high incidence of this disease.
• Valley fever disease: Dust transmits some of the fungi that cause valley fever disease. These fungi can be present in the ground and carried by fine particles in the air, which enhances the transmission of the disease.
• Spread of the influenza virus: Studies indicate that dust particles can carry the influenza virus, which increases its spread in the environment. When these particles are inhaled, transmission of the virus to individuals exposed to polluted air can occur.

Understanding the role of dust in transmitting these diseases highlights the importance of taking preventive measures, such as using face masks and keeping the environment clean, to reduce the transmission of these infectious and disease-causing agents.

Tips to prevent dust from damaging your body

Tips to prevent dust damage to the skin:

1. Covering the face with a scarf: It is recommended to cover the face with a scarf when going out in case of increased dust to limit direct exposure.
2. Wash your face regularly: Wash your face with a suitable cleanser to get rid of dust and dirt daily to keep the skin clean.
3. Drink sufficient amounts of water: Drink large amounts of water to help rid the body of toxins and maintain fresh skin.
4. Healthy skin nourishment: Nourish the skin with appropriate nutrients to reduce damage caused by dust and environmental pollution.

Tips to get rid of dust inside the eyes:

1. Wash your hands and avoid rubbing: Wash your hands well and avoid rubbing your eyes to avoid scratching the cornea, then try to look for where the dust is.
2. Washing eyes with water: Wash eyes well with clean water to get rid of any stuck-on dust.
3. Remove dust by eye roll: Look near and inside the upper and lower eyelids, and try to remove stuck-on dust by eye roll if discomfort persists.
4. Go to the doctor: If you are unable to remove the dust, go to the doctor immediately to receive the necessary medical care.

General tips to reduce dust damage to the body:

1. Stay indoors: Avoid exposure to outdoor dust clouds as much as possible.
2. Consultation with a doctor: Consult a specialist doctor if symptoms increase.
3. Avoid prolonged effort in dusty areas: Avoid prolonged effort in areas with heavy dirt contamination.
4. Stay away from bodies of water: Avoid bodies of water and open swimming places to avoid exposure to accumulated dust particles.
5. Wear a mask and respirator: Wear a face mask and respirator if you work in areas exposed to heavy dust.

Read also: How does cold weather affect various organs of the body?

Source: webteb