Air purifier side effects: 5 potential health dangers of using excessive air purifier | TheHealthSite.com

Written By Satata Karmakar | Updated : October 28, 2024 1:54 PM IST

Air Purifier: Winter is here, and pollution too! Every year, during this time, the air quality drops to hazardous in the capital and nearby areas. This year is no different! In the last few days, AQI has touched 400, making it difficult for the commoners to even breathe. At this time, what comes in handy and helpful is an air purifier. A gadget that helps purify the indoor air that you are breathing, making it toxic-free and safe for the lungs to inhale. Air purifiers efficiently remove harmful particles in the air, such as dust, pollen, smoke, and pet dander. Thus lessening the indoor air pollution, which is particularly helpful for those with allergies or asthma. Many models are equipped with HEPA filters, capable of trapping 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, making air purifiers a vital ally in maintaining a healthy home.

Although air purifiers can improve indoor air quality, overusing them may lead to various health concerns. In this article, we tell you the dark side of using an air purifier.

Even though using an air purifier is important to keep the air quality on the right track inside the house, excessively using this gadget can make a few things worse. Check out these side effects of air purifiers:

One major issue is developing respiratory problems. Being in an environment with overly filtered air can deprive our immune systems of essential airborne microorganisms they need, which can heighten the risk of infections and allergies.

Excessive use of air purifiers can also dry out the air in our homes. Many, especially those using HEPA filters, can lower humidity levels, resulting in dry skin, irritated sinuses, and breathing discomfort. People may notice more coughing or throat irritation due to the lack of moisture in the atmosphere.

Some air purifiers, particularly those that use ionization technology, may create ozone as a byproduct. Ozone can irritate the respiratory system and cause serious health problems, especially for those with existing respiratory issues. Long-term exposure to elevated ozone levels can worsen asthma symptoms and lead to chronic lung conditions.

Additionally, certain purifiers can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during use. These emissions may come from the materials the device is made of or its filters. VOCs can trigger headaches, dizziness, and even lasting health effects with extended exposure. It's important to select air purifiers that are certified for minimal emissions of harmful substances.

To enjoy the advantages of air purifiers while curtailing risks, using them in moderation is crucial. Apart from this, one must know which one to select for staying safe. When picking an air purifier, it's essential to look at the technology it uses. Choosing models that don't produce ozone and have low VOC emissions can significantly lessen health risks. Regularly changing filters and properly maintaining the unit according to the manufacturer's directions will also ensure it operates effectively and safely.