The effect of dust on human health..and important health guidelines for dealing with dust waves

Weather of Arabia - The human body has various defense mechanisms to deal with the dust around us, but these mechanisms may become insufficient when the dust is dense and the dust particles are small, and then the dust enters through the mouth or nose.

Experts have identified two different types of dust that can be inhaled:

• Inhaled dust: These are the larger dust particles that can get stuck in the nose and mouth. Since they are larger in size, they remain outside the body, and may cause irritation to the nose, throat, eyes, and skin.
• Respirable dust: Small, airborne dust particles are more dangerous because they may be able to enter the lungs or travel directly into the bloodstream.

What is the link between dust and allergies?

A person may suffer from an allergic reaction when the immune system responds to a foreign substance exposed to the body, and dust contains multiple particles that stimulate the immune system to fight it, and the symptoms of dust allergy may vary in severity, but common symptoms include: red eyes, sneezing, runny nose, and rash Wheezing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

Also read: What do sandstorms carry other than dust and dust?

Effects of dust waves on human health

The effects and harms of dust on human health are mainly related to the size of particles carried by dust waves, which are as follows:

• Dust may contain microscopic solid particles or liquid droplets small enough to get deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems.

• Large particles may irritate the nose, throat, and eyes.

• Small particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter (called PM2.5) pose the greatest problem because they can get deep into the lungs and may reach the bloodstream.

• Particulate matter less than 10 micrometers in diameter (called PM10) can cause serious health effects in susceptible individuals if the concentration is high enough.

• Dust waves may carry natural particles, such as: microorganisms, pollen, and fungi, and in certain circumstances dust waves may contain bacteria and viruses carried by the wind from sewage or from the sneezing of infected people.

• Dust dust can irritate the respiratory system.

Also read: The effect of dusty weather on the eye and the most important methods of prevention

Health symptoms resulting from dust and dirt

• Irritation in the airways, coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing
• impaired lung function;
• Exacerbation of asthma, COPD, and other chronic lung diseases: wheezing, cough, shortness of breath, and increased frequency and severity of attacks
• In rare cases, small particles may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke in people who are exposed to it.

Important tips to avoid health hazards resulting from dust waves

• Stay indoors as much as possible and close windows and doors.
• Wear a face mask and cover the skin and eyes in case you have to go out, and change clothes when you return home.
• Avoid direct exposure to dust and dirt, especially for the elderly, patients with asthma, or those with chest diseases, and those who have recently undergone eye and nose surgeries.
• Avoid rubbing the eyes so as not to be exposed to infections.
• Washing the face, nose and mouth frequently to prevent dust from entering the lungs.
• Avoid prolonged or strenuous effort in areas with a high rate of dust pollution, in order to avoid inhaling larger amounts of dust.
• Use air purifiers indoors.
• Refer to the nearest health center when allergy symptoms appear, such as: watery eyes, coughing, asthma attacks, and a wheezing sound when breathing.
• Refer to the emergency department as soon as acute breathing problems and difficulties appear.
• Make sure to follow the weather bulletins constantly.

What should I do if I have health symptoms caused by dust?

• If you're having trouble breathing, seek medical attention - either from your GP or your local emergency department.
• People (adults and children) with asthma and lung disease should follow their asthma guidelines and use their medications as instructed by their doctor.
• If the dust causes itching in the eyes, nose and skin - wash it thoroughly with water and if symptoms persist seek medical attention.

Also read: How do sand and dust storms affect the weather?