How to use air purifier to protect respiratory tract

Air purifiers can become a source of potential pathogens, so they should be used properly, cleaned regularly, and filters replaced periodically.

Dr. Nguyen Van Ngan, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi , said that when the level of air pollution is high, many people equip themselves with air purifiers to keep their living space clean. The device consists of many filters, helping to filter animal hair, pollen, fine dust, odor-causing bacteria... Some types also integrate the ability to create humidity, catch mosquitoes, and create negative ions.

Families need to pay attention to cleaning or replacing the filter after a period of use. This principle also applies to air conditioners and fans.

Many people who use this device often close the door to ensure that the air filtration process is not interrupted. However, this can prevent the air in the room from circulating, creating favorable conditions for harmful microorganisms to survive longer, adversely affecting health. Dr. Ngan recommends that families should open windows and walkways at certain times of the day to allow better air circulation.

Air purifiers remove dust and suspended particles from the air but do not clean the dust on the floor. Therefore, families need to pay attention to cleaning their living space regularly, especially if they have pets.

Many families use air purifiers to protect their respiratory health. Photo: Freepik — Many families use air purifiers to protect their respiratory health. Photo: *Freepik*

Air purifiers help clean the air but do not completely remove allergens that cause disease or respiratory irritation. People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, bronchiectasis... need to avoid disease-causing factors and risk factors that trigger the disease.

Active or passive smoking reduces the resistance of the respiratory mucosa, making it susceptible to respiratory infections. Avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke helps reduce the risk of acute exacerbations of chronic lung disease, so ensure a clean living environment.

Many dust and allergens in the house are the main cause of acute attacks in people with chronic lung disease. Families should not keep pets in the house if someone has been diagnosed with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Damp walls or floors create favorable conditions for mold growth, making homeowners susceptible to respiratory infections. Families can use dehumidifiers and air conditioners to reduce humidity to below 50%.

Khue Lam

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