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Dampness promotes fungal spores and bacteria, which become airborne when you touch damp walls or turn on the fan. When inhaled, they can enter your lungs, causing various diseases
Prolonged exposure to dampness can lead to ailments such as a sore throat, cough, and sneezing. (News18 Hindi)
Dampness in homes is common during the winter and rainy seasons, but prolonged dampness can be dangerous to your health. It can lead to a variety of allergies, especially for children and the elderly, who may face more severe issues.
In conversation with Local18, Dr Nikhil Modi, senior pulmonologist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, explains how persistent dampness in homes poses health risks to individuals. He explains that many people take dampness and seepage lightly, unaware that it is making them sick. They often do not realise that their health issues are a result of prolonged exposure to dampness in their homes.
Diseases Caused by Dampness
When there is dampness in homes, fungal spores develop, which can promote the growth of bacteria. These bacteria or fungal spores become airborne when you touch damp walls or turn on the fan, and when breathed in, they can enter your lungs through the respiratory tract, causing various diseases.
Dr Modi highlighted that prolonged exposure to dampness can lead to ailments such as a sore throat, cough, and sneezing. For individuals with asthma, living in damp conditions can be particularly harmful. Those with sinusitis can also experience worsened symptoms. Healthy individuals may not develop asthma, but they are still at risk of developing symptoms like cough, sore throat, sneezing, and allergies.
How to Prevent It
To prevent the health risks associated with dampness, Dr Modi suggests improving ventilation in the home. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate, which helps dry out the dampness. If the dampness persists, it is advisable to repaint the affected areas and take measures to eliminate it entirely, ensuring it does not return.
Rising Cases of Flu
Dr Modi also mentioned that many patients visiting his outpatient department (OPD) are suffering from flu-related issues such as cold, cough, fever, and sore throat. This increase in cases spans all age groups. The worsening air quality in Delhi is also contributing to breathing difficulties, leading to more young patients seeking medical help.
