The Institute of Hygiene informs about air pollution with solid particles

On March 21-22, moderately favorable meteorological conditions for the dispersion of pollutants will prevail in the country. The concentration of solid particles in the ambient air of cities will remain elevated – the probability of exceeding the daily limit value of PM10 will increase.

The reasons for the increase in air pollution are unfavorable weather conditions for pollutant dispersion (dry, rainless weather has prevailed), the main reason is the intensity of transport and the pollution it raises (dust is raised abundantly from dry streets, roadsides, yards, etc.).

Health risks associated with particulate matter

The norms of solid particles in Lithuania are regulated by national and European Union (EU) legal regulations, which determine the permissible limits of the concentration of solid particles in the air. According to EU directives, the permissible concentration of solid particles is determined to protect human health.

Permissible concentration limits for KD10 are 50 μg/m³ daily average values ​​(cannot be exceeded for more than 35 days in a calendar year) and 40 μg/m³ annual average values, while KD2.5 concentration limits are 20 μg/m³ annual average values. These rates are subject to change and adjustment based on the latest research results and health impact assessments.

Solid particles enter the human body through the respiratory tract. Health risks are associated with solid particles with a diameter of 10 (KD10 ) and 2.5 (KD2.5) microns. The smaller the diameter of the particles, the deeper they reach the respiratory tract, where they settle and can begin to accumulate, forming a favorable environment for the development of a chronic disease.

Larger PM10 particles – those with a size of up to 10 μm in the air – are retained in the upper respiratory tract and are usually removed from them by sneezing or coughing, while the smallest PM2.5, with a size of up to 2.5 μm, pose a greater threat because they settle in the lungs and a certain part of the particles enters the blood and tissues through the alveoli of the lungs, causing chronic poisoning, allergic reactions of the body, and systemic damage to tissues and cells.

Depending on the concentration of solid particles in the ambient air, they can irritate the respiratory tract (nose and throat sting, cough appears, breathing becomes difficult), and as a result, chronic respiratory diseases (especially bronchial asthma, obstructive bronchitis, etc.) and chronic heart or course of vascular diseases.

Long-term exposure to solid particles can become the cause of chronic ailments, especially lower respiratory tract diseases (asthma, bronchitis), cause an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, weaken the lung function of children and adults, disrupt heart function, and provoke a stroke.

Solid particles in the ambient air enter the human body not only through the respiratory system, but can also enter through the mucous membrane of the eyes (causes conjunctivitis) or irritate the skin (clogs the sweat glands, so purulent processes can begin).

Exposure to particulate air pollution, especially long-term exposures, can be significant to health, but short-term exposures also have adverse health effects.

In the case of short-term exposure (lasting a few hours or days), a significant increase in the concentration of pollutants can cause acute health changes: irritation of the upper respiratory tract, resulting in a stuffy nose, throat, cough, difficulty breathing, and those suffering from respiratory, cardiovascular or vascular diseases may experience a deterioration in health ( attacks of bronchial asthma, obstructive bronchitis, cardiac disorders).

With long-term exposure, even a small increase in solid particles can become the cause of chronic ailments: respiratory diseases (asthma, bronchitis, emphysema), weakened lung function, heart failure, lung cancer can develop.

Effects of air pollution on humans

Air pollution affects everyone, but this effect is not the same. Children, especially babies, pregnant women, elderly people and people with asthma and other diseases of the respiratory and circulatory system are more sensitive to the negative effects of polluted ambient air. In children, this effect can manifest as reduced lung function, respiratory tract infections, asthma exacerbations, etc.

Even healthy people may experience temporary symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, cough, chest tightness, shortness of breath, headache, and fatigue.

It is important to protect yourself from air pollution. In the event of an increase in ambient air pollution, residents are advised to limit work activities and physical activity outdoors. Sports and exercise are better indoors or in places away from busy streets. While in the room, it is better not to open vents and windows, and use air conditioners with filters to ventilate the rooms. Close windows tightly when driving vehicles. Avoid busy streets when traveling by bicycle.

Masks with a special filter can help protect against inhalation of solid particles.

The air pollution index can be tracked On the website of the Environmental Protection Agency or in various mobile apps.