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7 regular use household products harmful to lung health

7 regular use household products harmful to lung health

Many adults in the country experience one or more types of lung and respiratory disorders, often due to the presence of carcinogens in the atmosphere. In some cases, symptoms may even appear during early childhood. These harmful particulate matters can impact breathing and other respiratory functions. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the risks posed by common cleaning and hygiene products used in their households. Here are seven such products that can potentially cause lung problems:

Air fresheners
Aerosol sprays containing fragrances are commonly used around the house, especially inside the washroom. And depending on the size of the family, one might be using these products repeatedly. So, the exposure rate for air fresheners is high, and someone with existing lung problems will suffer from respiratory issues after coming in contact with such products. That’s mainly because fragrances contain scents added to compressed gases inside the can. Many of these scents are ethyl based and are quite toxic. Even the slightest exposure can worsen symptoms of respiratory and lung disorders, triggering a flareup.

Oven cleaners
Baking and grilling ovens collect a lot of the soot and fumes released while cooking. Oven cleaners effectively disintegrate the debris that collects inside the oven. It’s easy to scrub off what remains effortlessly using a steel wool scrubber. However, oven cleaners contain strong volatile organic compounds that trigger severe lung and respiratory problems. One will start to experience coughing, shortness of breath, and even chest pain with direct exposure to the fumes. The particulate matter inside these cleaners irritates the airways and tiny sacs inside the lungs that store and release oxygen.

Bleach
A homemade bleach solution is one of the cheapest disinfectants to make using just a few ingredients. The local supermarket or pharmacy will sell concentrated bleach that can be diluted at home by mixing water to create a potent surface cleaner. However, bleach releases strong fumes that are extremely toxic and should not be inhaled directly. Children are at a much higher risk compared to adults, especially to the chlorine fumes. These vapors worsen symptoms linked to conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases that affect one’s breathing. Long-term exposure to bleach also increases the risk of cancer.

Furniture and floor polish
Polish is another commonly used surface cleaner available in a concentrated form. Household furniture made from wood and other organic materials requires a coat of polish to restore that shine and look. However, the fumes contain some of the most poisonous substances known to man, added to the polish merely to increase the potency of the product. Furniture polish poisoning is a serious condition caused by the liquid variants of the cleaner. Someone already suffering from common lung and chronic respiratory disorders is at risk of having a pneumothorax (collapsed lung) with the minutest exposure to the toxin. Vision problems, fluid buildup in the lungs, and other breathing difficulties are all signs of poisoning.

Detergents and dishwashing liquids
Even some commercial-grade detergents used for washing clothes contain toxic compounds that shouldn’t be inhaled. Detergents are heavily laced with chemicals, disinfectants, and abrasive fluids designed to wash and clean clothes. The strong fumes are worse than secondhand exposure to other carcinogens released in the surroundings. Also, dishwashing fluids contain concentrated compounds formulated to scrub off dirt and debris from utensils and cookware products exposed to high heat. Inhaling these fumes will also irritate the airways and cause discomfort.

Disinfectants for the washroom
Disinfectants contain strong compounds used to neutralize any bacteria and lower the risk of infections. One of the volatile organic compounds used in the formulation of such cleaning products is ammonia. Inhaling fumes released by these chemical products can trigger and worsen respiratory symptoms. The concentration of ammonia in these products can cause nasal irritation and a burning sensation experienced in the throat and respiratory tract. Further, inhaling ammonia increases the risk of fluid buildup in the lungs, commonly caused by bronchiolar or alveolar edema.

Beauty products
Even commonly used beauty and wellness products like hairsprays, aerosol perfumes, antiperspirants, talcum powders, and other products that contain fumes increase airway irritation. Inhaling these fumes regularly will cause the symptoms of known conditions like asthma, common COPD, and lung diseases to flare up. Some aerosol products also increase the risk of cancer due to inhaling a certain type of carcinogen present in the products.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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7 effective tips for protecting the eyes while traveling

Traveling often or traveling long distances comes with its own challenges. Be it air, train, or road journeys, stress, and discomfort can trigger certain issues. While most people don't intentionally neglect or avoid taking care, it's possible to overlook a few simple practices and hygiene habits that could have ensured the body felt better rested. Thus, here are a few essential tips for protecting your eyes outdoors as well as indoors during your next trip. Apply a warm compress Long-distance travel can be quite stressful for the eyes. So, applying a warm compress over the eyelids upon arrival at the destination helps soothe sore muscles and improves fluid movement near the tear ducts. Apply the compress for a good 10 to 15 minutes and let the heat gently overcome the strain. This technique will help protect your eyes from developing an infection due to changes in temperature, climate, and even surroundings at a foreign location. It's also better to wash your eyes with cold water gently to remove any dirt and debris that accumulates during the journey. Give importance to hydration Your eyes are self-cleansing and primarily rely on bodily fluids to prepare the lubricant that allows the eyeball to move freely. Every time you blink, the eyelids coat the surface with this natural liquid for improved vision. Doctors recommend drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated to support this function. Natural tears also protect the eyes from particulate matter and external pollutants. Staying hydrated even lowers the risk of dry eyes, a common condition where the tear ducts stop producing these fluids. Ophthalmologists even suggest using hydrating eye drops that help replenish the lubricants regularly in an extremely dry and temperate environment. Have an extra pair of glasses Glasses not only help correct and improve vision but also protect your eyes while traveling from debris, pollution, and UV exposure. But accidents can happen at any time, and the last thing you'd want to deal with on holiday is to find a replacement for a pair of broken glasses. After all, compromised vision is not the best way to spend your vacation days. Always carry an extra pair and even have contacts handy. Even if there are ophthalmologists and opticians who can help prepare a pair of prescription glasses within a day, it's better to carry backup and avoid unnecessary expenses. Don't ignore vision problems If you suddenly experience double vision, blurry vision, or flashes that cause distress, don't wait to consult with an ophthalmologist. It could be a sign of an injury or underlying condition that results in eye distress. This is even more important when you are on vacation and are traveling frequently. Some eye injuries don't necessarily cause pain, especially when it's something like internal bleeding that results in the accumulation of blood within the eyeball. So, never ignore the signs of injury, as these can rapidly progress into something more serious. Remove makeup before bed If you are wearing eyeliner or mascara during the day, these makeup products lead to styes at the edge of the eyelids near the tear ducts. Not cleaning out this gunk can result in hardening and crusting of the style near the ducts, affecting natural lubrication. If left unchecked, there is also an increased risk of infection. So, doctors recommend removing all makeup before bed. If a style has developed, keep the area clean and lubricated; also, consult an eye specialist for any prescriptions if required. Wear protective glasses One of the biggest risk factors for eye injury and damage during travel is exposure to UV radiation, especially if you are planning a vacation at tropical hotspots closer to the equator. Always carry and wear good, polarized glasses or special UV protection sunglasses when you are planning to spend a day at the beach. Just as you would make an effort to protect your skin with SPF sunscreen, it's equally important to shield the eyes from such harmful exposure. Protective eyewear is also necessary in snowy places as the UV reflection at such locations is more intense and directly reflected off the snow-covered surface directly onto the eyes. Use a sleep mask Air travel can be quite stressful for the eyes, simply because the altitude changes cause the eyes to dry out mid-flight. Either keep some prescription eye drops handy in flight or wear a relaxing eye mask when you nap. The protection prevents dry air from drying out the tear ducts and causing inflammation or swelling of the eyelids. If you are wearing contact lenses, don't forget to remove them before taking a nap and applying the eye mask. Always be prepared for any emergencies while traveling. It is advisable to make a list of the doctors and health specialists available at the location you're traveling to in case of emergencies.  

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