Navigating Monsoon Allergies: Improving Indoor Air Quality with Air Purifiers

Muzaffar Izamuddin, Design Manager, Environmental Care at Dyson, shares some tips to help you manage monsoon allergies. The monsoon season comes with increased humidity, dampness, and other related conditions that can result in heightened allergic reactions in susceptible individuals, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, congestion, and itchy eyes.

Increase in allergens during monsoon?

• Respiratory allergies:With increased indoor time, especially during the monsoon season, there is a greater likelihood of exposure to various triggers that can lead to respiratory allergies. The combination of damp surfaces and higher levels of indoor pollutants due to cooking, pet dander, tobacco smoke, mold and other outdoor allergens that become trapped indoors can significantly contribute to developing and exacerbating these allergies.
• Pollen allergies:Monsoon season heralds a significant rise in pollen levels, triggering symptoms for individuals sensitive to pollen. Between the months of June and September, many individuals with pollen allergies experience a surge in their symptoms, leading to physical problems including sneezing, itchiness, nasal congestion, red and swollen eyes, wheezing and a runny nose. These symptoms are based on the level of pollen count for that day.
• House dust mites and mold allergies: House dust mites, the most common allergen, tend to thrive in the increased humidity of this season, particularly where humidity levels are around 70 per cent, and temperatures rise above 25 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the elevated relative humidity indoors creates favourable conditions for mold growth.

Tips for managing monsoon allergies

Managing monsoon allergies involves taking proactive steps to reduce exposure to allergens and alleviate symptoms. Here are some expert tips from Muzaffar Izamuddin, Design Manager, RDD Environmental Care, Dyson,to help you manage monsoon allergies:

1. Keep indoor spaces clean:Regularly clean your home to minimise dust, mold, and other allergens. Vacuum carpets, sweep floors, and dust surfaces frequently. Use a damp cloth when dusting to prevent allergens from becoming airborne.
2. Control humidity levels:Use dehumidifiers or air conditioners to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50%. Lower humidity helps discourage mold growth and reduces the presence of dust mites.
3. Use air purifiers:Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to capture allergens like pollen, dust mites, and mold spores. Place them in commonly used areas or bedrooms to improve indoor air quality.

Why air purifiers? Air purifierscan be helpful in reducing the allergens present in indoor air, including mold spores and other airborne particles. They work by filtering the air and trapping these allergens, improving the overall air quality. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are often recommended for capturing small particles, such as mold spores. Air purifiers typically feature a multi-stage filtration system, which includes a HEPA filter that captures small particles such as allergens, dust, and mold spores.

Dyson Air Purifiers – Armour against allergens

4. Prevent mold growth:Address areas prone to moisture accumulation, such as bathrooms, basements and kitchens. Repair leaks promptly, ensure good ventilation, and use mold-resistant materials in these areas. Clean and dry any wet surfaces or items promptly.
5. Keep windows closed: During high pollencounts or when it's raining heavily, keep windows and doors closed to prevent allergens from entering your home. Air purifiers with HEPA filters can help circulate and filter the air.
6. Wash hands and clothes:After spending time outdoors, wash your hands and change clothes to remove any pollen or allergens that may have accumulated on your skin or clothing.
7. Consult with a healthcare professional: If your allergies persist or cause significant discomfort, consult an allergist or healthcare professional. They can recommend suitable medications or allergy shots to manage your symptoms effectively.