High humidity affects the human body. The effect of humidity on the human body
A person’s tolerance to environmental temperature depends on the relative humidity of the air, that is, the percentage ratio of the amount of water vapor contained in a certain volume of air to the amount that completely saturates this volume at a given temperature. When air temperature falls, relative humidity increases, and when air temperature rises, it decreases.
Relative air humidity of 40–60% at a temperature of 18–21 °C is considered optimal for humans. Air whose relative humidity is below 20% is rated as dry, from 71 to 85% as moderately humid, and above 86% as very humid.
Moderate air humidity ensures normal functioning of the body. In humans, it helps moisturize the skin and mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. Maintaining a constant humidity of the internal environment of the body depends to a certain extent on the humidity of the inhaled air. Combined with temperature factors, air humidity creates conditions for thermal comfort or disrupts it, promoting hypothermia or overheating of the body, as well as hydration or dehydration of tissues.
A simultaneous increase in air temperature and humidity sharply worsens a person’s well-being and shortens the possible length of his stay in these conditions. At the same time, there is an increase in body temperature, increased heart rate, and respiration. Headache, weakness appear, and motor activity decreases. Poor heat tolerance in combination with high relative humidity is due to the fact that, simultaneously with increased sweating in high environmental humidity, sweat does not evaporate well from the surface of the skin. Heat transfer is difficult. The body becomes increasingly overheated and heat stroke may occur.
High humidity is also an unfavorable factor at low air temperatures. In this case, there is a sharp increase in heat transfer, which is dangerous to health. Even a temperature of 0 °C can lead to frostbite of the face and limbs, especially in the presence of wind.
Low air humidity (less than 20%) is accompanied by significant evaporation of moisture from the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. This leads to a decrease in their filtering ability and to unpleasant sensations in the throat and dry mouth.
The boundaries within which a person’s thermal balance at rest is maintained with considerable stress are considered to be an air temperature of 40 °C and a humidity of 30% or an air temperature of 30 °C and a humidity of 85%.
Patients with hypertension and atherosclerosis are especially sensitive to high humidity. There is an increase in the number of exacerbations of diseases of the cardiovascular system with increasing air humidity.
The body's response to hypoxic exposure
Hypoxia – a condition that occurs as a result of insufficient oxygen supply to tissues.
The body's response to hypoxic effects can be considered using a model of hypoxia during mountain climbing:
Initially, in response to hypoxia, a person’s heart rate, stroke and minute blood volume increase compensatoryly. Additional capillaries in the tissues open, which increases blood flow, as the rate of oxygen diffusion increases;
There is a slight increase in breathing intensity. Shortness of breath occurs only with severe degrees of oxygen starvation. This is explained by the fact that increased breathing in a hypoxic atmosphere is accompanied by hypocapnia, which inhibits the increase in pulmonary ventilation, and only after a certain time (1 - 2 weeks) in hypoxic conditions does a significant increase in pulmonary ventilation occur due to the increased sensitivity of the respiratory center to carbon dioxide;
the number of red blood cells and the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood increases due to increased hematopoiesis;
the oxygen transport properties of hemoglobin change, which contributes to a more complete delivery of oxygen to tissues;
the number of mitochondria in cells increases, the content of respiratory chain enzymes increases, which increases energy metabolism in the cell;
behavior changes occur. For example, physical activity decreases.
The body's response to changes in atmospheric pressure
Atmospheric pressure is the pressure of atmospheric air on objects in it and on the earth's surface. Its distribution over the earth's surface determines the movement of air masses and atmospheric fronts, determines the direction and speed of the wind. Pressure plays an important role in the functioning of the body. The well-being of a person who has lived in a certain area for quite a long time is normal, i.e. The atmospheric pressure characteristic of this region should not cause any particular deterioration in well-being.
Changes in atmospheric pressure can lead to a variety of pathological manifestations. First of all, they relate to the cardiovascular system. Thus, under normal conditions, with an increase in atmospheric pressure, some changes in physiological indicators and sensations are observed: a decrease in pulse and respiratory rate, a decrease in systolic and an increase in diastolic blood pressure, an increase in the vital capacity of the lungs, a dull timbre of the voice, a decrease in skin sensitivity and hearing, a feeling of dry mucous membranes , increased intestinal motility, slight compression of the abdomen due to compression of gases in the intestines. However, all these phenomena are relatively easily tolerated. More unfavorable phenomena are observed during the period of changes in atmospheric pressure - increase (compression) and especially its decrease (decompression) to normal. The slower the change in pressure occurs, the better and without adverse consequences the human body adapts to it.
When atmospheric pressure decreases, opposite changes occur: breathing becomes more frequent and deepening, heart rate increases, a slight drop in blood pressure is observed, and changes in the blood are also observed in the form of an increase in the number of red blood cells. On the other hand, the nerve receptors of the pleura (the mucous membrane lining the pleural cavity), the peritoneum (lining the abdominal cavity), the synovial membrane of the joints, as well as vascular receptors react to fluctuations in atmospheric pressure. The adverse effect of low atmospheric pressure on the body is based on oxygen starvation. It is due to the fact that with a decrease in atmospheric pressure, the partial pressure of oxygen also decreases, therefore, with the normal functioning of the respiratory and circulatory organs, less oxygen enters the body.
The body's response to the action of electromagnetic fields (EMF) and radio frequency radiation
Experimental data from both domestic and foreign researchers indicate high biological activity of EMF in all frequency ranges (Vyalov A.M., 1971; Schwan H.P., 1985, 1988; Semm P., 1980; Milham S., 1985). At relatively high levels of irradiating EMF, modern theory recognizes the thermal mechanism of the effect of EMF on a biological object, in which the electromagnetic energy of the external field is converted into thermal energy and is accompanied by an increase in body temperature or local selective heating of tissues, cell organs, especially those with poor thermoregulation (lens, vitreous body) and others).
At a relatively low level of EMF (for example, for radio frequencies above 300 MHz - this is less than 1 mW/cm2), it is customary to talk about the non-thermal or informational nature of the impact on the body. The mechanisms of action of EMF in this case are still poorly understood.
The effect of radio frequency EMF on the central nervous system at an energy flux density (EFD) of more than 1 m W/cm 2 indicates its high sensitivity to electromagnetic radiation.
Changes in the blood are observed, as a rule, at PES above 10 mW/cm 3; at lower levels of exposure, phase changes in the number of leukocytes, erythrocytes and hemoglobin are observed.
With prolonged exposure to EMFs, physiological adaptation or weakening of immunological reactions occurs.
The severity of the identified disorders is directly dependent on:
wavelength;
radiation intensity and mode;
duration and nature of exposure to the body;
on the area of the irradiated surface and the anatomical structure of the organ and tissue.
Numerous studies in the field of biological effects of EMF will allow us to determine the most sensitive systems of the human body: nervous, immune, endocrine and reproductive. A.M. Vyalov (1971) also considers the hematopoietic system to be critical.
When exposed to low-intensity EMFs from the nervous system, significant deviations occur in the transmission of nerve impulses at the synapse level. Higher nervous activity is depressed and memory deteriorates. The structure of the capillary blood-brain barrier of the brain is disrupted, its permeability increases, which directly depends on the intensity of exposure (Gigoriev Yu.G. et al., 1999). The fetal nervous system exhibits particular sensitivity to electromagnetic influences in the later stages of intrauterine development.
A high-intensity electromagnetic field can contribute to nonspecific immune suppression, as well as the development of an autoimmune reaction, as a result of which the immune system reacts against normal tissue structures inherent in a given organism. This pathological condition is characterized in most cases by a deficiency of lymphocytes formed in the thymus gland (thymus), suppressed by electromagnetic influence.
Research by Russian scientists into the influence of the electromagnetic field on the endocrine system, which began in the 60s of the 20th century, showed that under the influence of the electromagnetic field, stimulation of the pituitary-adrenaline system occurs, accompanied by an increase in the content of adrenaline in the blood and activation of blood coagulation processes. Changes in the composition of peripheral blood (leukopenia, neutropenia, erythrocytopenia) were also observed.
Sexual dysfunction is usually associated with changes in its regulation by the nervous and endocrine systems, as well as with a sharp decrease in the activity of germ cells.
It has been established that the female reproductive system is more sensitive to electromagnetic influences than the male reproductive system. It is believed that electromagnetic fields can cause pathologies in the development of the embryo, affecting different stages of pregnancy. It has been established that the presence of contact of women with electromagnetic radiation can lead to premature birth and slow down the development of the fetus.
In recent years, data have appeared on the inducing effect of electromagnetic radiation on the processes of carcinogenesis (Pauly H., Schwan H.P., 1971, Semm P., 1980).
Prolonged contact with an electromagnetic field in the microwave range can lead to the development of a disease called “radio wave disease.” People who have been in the radiation zone for a long time complain of weakness, irritability, fatigue, weakened memory, and sleep disturbances. Often these symptoms are accompanied by disorders of the autonomic functions of the nervous system. From the cardiovascular system, hypotension, heart pain, and pulse instability are manifested.
The main sources of the electromagnetic field can be identified:
Power lines
Electrical wiring (inside buildings and structures)
Household electrical appliances
Personal computers
TV and radio broadcasting stations
Satellite and cellular communications (devices, repeaters)
Electric transport
Since the mid-90s of the last century, one of the most widespread sources of both industrial and non-industrial exposure to modulated EMFs has been mobile communication devices.
Studies carried out in 13 countries using the case-control method, within the framework of the International INTERPHONE project, found that when using cellular communication devices for more than 10 years, the risk of developing gliomas statistically significantly increases. Based on these data, in May 2011, IARC, when considering the electromagnetic field of the radio frequency range as a risk factor for the development of cancer, classified EMFs created by cellular communication devices as potential carcinogens for the risk of developing gliomas in users with long-term use of mobile phones “more than 10 years ( T.L. Pilat, L.P. Kuzmina, N.I.
Electromagnetic fields generated by personal computers are also seen as a potential risk factor for the health of users. Most of the data concerns computers equipped with video display terminals based on a cathode ray tube as a source of electrostatic and electromagnetic fields in the frequency range up to 400 kHz. According to available data, users have an increased risk of changes in the functional state of the central nervous system, the risk of developing diseases of the cardiovascular system, musculoskeletal system. A high incidence of pathology of the visual organ was noted, the leading role in which is played, first of all, by myopia (24–46%) and functional changes in the visual system in persons with normal visual status.
The body's response to noise
We encounter vibroacoustic factors: noise and vibration every day in transport (cars, trains, subways, etc.), in industrial premises, and in everyday life. It is known that in everyday life more than 30% of the population of large cities live in conditions of vibroacoustic discomfort.
The noise has been called the "gray plague" of the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. With the increase in labor productivity due to the creation of new machines and mechanisms, increasing their power, and introducing new technological processes, the noise is constantly increasing. From a physiological point of view They call all sorts of unpleasant, unwanted sounds that have a harmful, irritating effect on the human body, interfere with the perception of useful signals, and reduce its performance. From a physical point of view, noise is a random combination of sounds of varying frequencies and intensities. Sound intensity, measured in decibels (dB), is used to assess human exposure to noise.
Depending on the level and nature of noise, its duration, intensity and frequency of sounds, as well as the individual characteristics of a person, the consequences of exposure to noise can be very different.
Intense noise with daily exposure leads to an occupational disease - hearing loss, manifested by gradual hearing loss. Initially, it occurs in the high-frequency region, then hearing loss spreads to lower frequencies, which determine the ability to perceive speech.
In addition to the direct impact on the organs of hearing, noise affects various parts of the brain, disrupting the normal processes of higher nervous activity. This effect occurs even earlier than changes in the hearing organ. Typical complaints are increased fatigue, general weakness, irritability, apathy, memory loss, sweating, etc.
Under the influence of noise, changes occur in the human visual organs (the stability of clear vision and visual acuity decreases, sensitivity to different colors changes, etc.) and the vestibular apparatus; the functions of the gastrointestinal tract are disrupted; intracranial pressure increases, etc.
Noise, especially intermittent and pulsed noise, impairs the accuracy of work operations and makes it difficult to receive and perceive information. As a result of the adverse effects of noise on a working person, labor productivity and the accuracy of production operations decrease, the number of defects increases, and preconditions are created for the occurrence of accidents.
Approximate sound pressure levels of common environmental sounds:
10 dB - whisper;
20 dB - noise standard in residential premises;
40 dB - quiet conversation;
50 dB - medium volume conversation;
70 dB - typewriter noise;
80 dB - noise of a running truck engine;
100 dB - loud car signal at a distance of 5-7 m;
110 dB - noise of a running tractor at a distance of 1 m;
120-140 dB - pain threshold;
150 dB - airplane takeoff;
Approximately, the effect of noise depending on its level can be characterized as follows:
Noise level 50-65 dB may cause irritation, but its consequences are only psychological. The impact of low-intensity noise during mental work is especially negative.
In addition, the psychological impact of noise depends on the individual’s attitude towards it. Thus, the noise produced by the person himself does not bother him, while small extraneous noise can cause severe irritation. At noise level
65-90 dB its physiological effects are possible. The pulse and blood pressure increase, the blood vessels narrow, which reduces the body's blood supply, and the person gets tired faster. Functional changes in the state of the nervous system occur (irritability, apathy, memory loss, sweating, etc.). With prolonged exposure to intense noise, significant changes in the ultrastructure of mitochondria (inhibition of oxidative processes) and disruption of the functional structure of synapses are observed. Persistent and irreversible changes develop in the auditory analyzer (hearing impairment).
Exposure to noise levels 90 dB and higher leads to disruption of the hearing organs, and its effect on the circulatory system increases. With such intensity, the activity of the stomach and intestines deteriorates, feelings of nausea, headache and tinnitus appear.
At noise levels above 110 dB sound intoxication occurs;
At sound pressure
145 dB
Damage to the hearing aid may occur, including rupture of the eardrum.
The physiological effect of noise depends on three main parameters:
on the duration of noise exposure;
on noise intensity;
depending on the frequency characteristics, the more high frequencies predominate in the noise, the more dangerous it is (for example, a mosquito).
The humidity level in which a person feels comfortable ranges from 30 to 60%. It depends on temperature, level of physical activity and even age. For example, babies tolerate dry air very poorly, but moisture has a beneficial effect on their skin and mucous membranes and makes breathing easier.
Let us consider separately the effects of high and too low humidity on the human body and health.
High humidity
- Moisture-saturated heat is ideal conditions for the development of bacteria and all kinds of fungi, which can lead to the occurrence and intensification of allergic reactions.
- A high concentration of moisture does not allow the human body to maintain a normal temperature - the thermoregulation mechanism does not work properly. To cool itself, the human body uses sweating. Sweat, evaporating from the surface of the skin, removes excess heat. But what if they evaporate to nowhere? Then the body begins to work with increased force, and this leads to the opposite result - overheating. Possible lethargy, vomiting, loss of consciousness, strong blood viscosity and, as a result, heart problems. Oxygen starvation of the brain is even possible.
- People suffering from atherosclerosis, hypertension, and all kinds of diseases of the cardiovascular system should be especially careful in the heat and high humidity. There is a possibility of a sharp exacerbation of diseases and uncontrolled attacks.
- High humidity combined with low temperature is dangerous for too much hypothermia and frostbite. This can happen around 0°C, and not just with a minus.
Low humidity
- When the air is excessively dry, the body begins to intensively evaporate moisture, which can cause drying out of the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose and eyes.
- For asthmatics, too dry air is also extremely harmful, they begin to feel worse, and exacerbations of the disease are possible.
- Staying in dry air for a long enough time threatens a decrease in immunity and frequent respiratory diseases. This happens due to the fact that dry mucous membranes interfere with normal breathing, as a result of which the body does not receive enough oxygen.
Unfortunately, we cannot influence the air humidity outside. But it is quite possible to create a comfortable microclimate in your home, office or apartment. After all, constant humidity, both high and low, can lead to many negative consequences: poor health, fatigue, various diseases, including tuberculosis and rheumatism.
The composition of air has a great influence on human health. Depending on this parameter, his performance and emotional state may change. One of the main indicators is the moisture content in air masses. Its value decreases under the influence of various household appliances and heating systems. As a result, the body begins to age faster, the skin becomes dehydrated, and the risk of allergic reactions increases. In this article we will look at interesting facts about air humidity and the importance of this characteristic for human life.
Human sensations when humidity changes
In the summer, excessive moisture has a negative impact on people's health. Air masses contain large amounts of moisture. As the temperature increases, they “absorb” water. The person has difficulty breathing and his blood pressure may increase. In winter, as temperatures decrease, humidity decreases. The body begins to give off heat. The importance of humidity in human life cannot be overestimated.
If the external temperature is high, but the composition of the air masses is characterized by a low moisture content, the heat can be tolerated quite easily. When the values of this parameter increase, a person may experience unpleasant conditions:
- body temperature rises;
- weakness and headache appear;
- pulse quickens;
- breathing becomes more frequent;
- There is profuse sweating.
In the presence of low temperature and high humidity, the human body, on the contrary, will become hypothermic. In order for living conditions to be comfortable, the percentage of moisture should be in the range of 30-60%. Otherwise, health problems may arise. The skin dries out and the body becomes dehydrated. Dry mucous membranes allow the penetration of pathogenic viruses and bacteria.
Air humidity plays a huge role for humans. High moisture content leads to increased heat transfer. The body can quickly overheat. With prolonged exposure to such an environment, immunity decreases. There is an exacerbation of heart disease, hypertension and atherosclerosis. This situation has a negative impact not only on the human body. The appearance of dampness contributes to the accelerated proliferation of fungal formations. Building structures are being destroyed. Furniture and interior items deteriorate.
The impact of changes in air moisture content on furniture and household items
Not only our well-being depends on the composition of air masses. The value of humidity in everyday life is subject to special consideration. Wood products react very subtly to changes in the percentage of moisture content. The condition of furniture, interior structures and musical instruments is deteriorating. With high humidity, wooden coverings become deformed and change their shape.
Dry air is no less dangerous for household items. This becomes especially noticeable when cold weather sets in and the central heating is turned on:
- the furniture surface is cracking;
- the parquet begins to delaminate;
- musical instruments are more difficult to tune.
Dry air negatively affects the condition of artistic works of art. The paint is peeling off the surface of the paintings. That is why special devices are installed in large museums and exhibition halls that record changes in the composition of air masses.
Humidity and metrology
Water covers the entire surface of the earth. It is found in any living organism. The atmospheric composition includes 15,000 km3 of moisture. It represents the following formations:
- water drops;
- snow crystals;
- water vapor
The amount of water vapor affects weather and climate conditions. Oceans, seas, lakes and rivers occupy a huge area. Despite this, the water content in the atmosphere over different parts of the planet is not the same. As a result of the movement of air in certain places on the earth's surface, the liquid evaporates faster than its condensation occurs.
Humidity in meteorology is characterized using several parameters:
- Absolute humidity refers to the density of water vapor contained in air masses;
- what is called relative air humidity is the ratio of the pressure that water vapor creates at certain temperatures to the vapor pressure in a saturated state.
Relative humidity, in other words, shows the level of saturation of water vapor.
Methods for measuring moisture content
Moisture content can be determined using various measuring instruments:
- The psychometric device includes alcohol thermometers – “dry” and “wet”. Using the temperature difference and a lookup table, calculate the relative humidity;
- The device with weighing structure contains u-shaped tubes and adsorbent material. The air being tested passes through it. When pumping air mass, the weight of the material increases or decreases. Based on its change, the percentage of moisture is determined;
- Relative humidity is measured using hair and film hygrometers;
- for ceramic devices, the resistance changes with an increase or decrease in air composition;
- In a condensation gyroscope, the temperature of condensate on a mirror surface is measured. It is pre-cooled. The resulting value is compared with the ambient temperature.
An air humidity table is used to measure moisture content using dry-bulb and wet-bulb thermometers. The temperature difference corresponds to the relative humidity value.
Folk signs
When the weather changes, the moisture content in the air mass changes. Folk signs related to air humidity say that if clear and dry weather is expected, smoke from the stove will rise vertically. Before it rains, it spreads along the surface of the earth.
If there is severe frost and dry air, the wood in the stove burns with a bright flame and burns out in a short time. With a pale, dim flame, a large amount of soot produced and insufficient draft, there is a high probability of high moisture content in the air masses.
In the evening, in the absence of wind, the air temperature drops. Above the ground you can often see vaporous moisture - fog. You can also judge the upcoming weather by his behavior. According to signs, rising fog indicates future rain. If it lies on the surface of the ground, dry weather can be expected. Night and morning fog in the valley, which disappears with sunrise, indicates good weather ahead. The same forecast can be made in the presence of heavy morning dew.
If the moisture content in the air masses increases, many flowers experience contraction of inflorescences. The smell of rowan becomes sharper. Coniferous trees have drooping branches. When the air is dry they rise.
Temperature irritations are perceived by us as sensations of heat or cold. A person feels heat not only from the arrival of solar energy and air temperature, but also from humidity and wind. Thermal sensation depends not only on the arrival of solar energy and air temperature. As numerous scientific studies have shown, the comfort zone, that is, such external conditions under which a healthy person does not experience heat, cold, or stuffiness and feels best, is not something standard for all people, regions of different climates and all times of the year. It depends on the way of life, age-related socio-economic conditions.
The effect of air temperature on the human body depends on air humidity. At the same temperature, a change in the water vapor content in the surface layer of the atmosphere can have a significant impact on the state of the body. When air humidity increases, preventing evaporation from the surface of the human body, heat is difficult to tolerate and the effects of cold intensify. When the air is humid, the risk of airborne infection is higher. Due to precipitation, the daily variation of temperature and air humidity changes. Biometeorological studies have shown that precipitation itself has a beneficial effect on humans: mortality decreases, infectious diseases and complaints caused by meteorological phenomena decrease. A healthy person feels comfortable and cheerful during precipitation.
The influence of wind is varied. In cold weather, the wind has a cooling effect on the human body, carrying away the heated layers of air adjacent to the body and pressing more and more portions of cold air against it. In cool weather, the insidious property of high air humidity takes its toll. If the weather is windy, then the feeling of heat worsens even more, since the wind constantly carries heated and dried layers of air away from the body and brings in new portions of moist and cold air, which enhances the process of further cooling of the body.
The most comfortable conditions for a person are observed at a perceived air temperature of 16-18 ° C, determined by the relative humidity value - 50%.
The topic of my research: "Humidity. The influence of humidity on human health"
Goal: Learn about the effect of air humidity on human health and surrounding objects.
Familiarize yourself with humidity.
Identify optimal humidity parameters.
Establish the relationship between air humidity and human health and environmental objects.
Conduct an experiment to determine air humidity. Compare the results with the optimal parameters. Observe the condition of children in the classroom without a humidifier and with a humidifier.
Make a device for measuring air humidity.
Suggest options for normalizing air humidity.
Hypothesis: I hypothesize that humidity greatly affects human health.
Research methods: observation, experiment, literature study.
Theoretical background.
I live in the city of Koryazhma, Arkhangelsk region. Our city is located on the banks of a river, our area is swampy, which means there should be enough water in the air.
Of course, water is an important part of the environment. We will talk about air humidity.
Humidity is a measure of the water content in the air.
There is also the concept of relative humidity - the amount of water in the air in the ratio there is/may be.
The influence of air humidity on human health.
Humidity is an important indicator of the comfort of the atmosphere in residential premises.
Air with humidity: up to 55% is considered dry, from 56% - 70% - moderately dry, from 71% - 85% - moderately humid, over 85% - very humid.
Both high and low humidity are dangerous.
To prove my hypothesis, I conducted four experiments.
Experiment 1: Measuring Humidity
Experiment 2. Measuring humidity under different conditions.
Experiment 3. Psychrometer.
Experiment 4. Observe the condition of children in the classroom with and without a humidifier.
And I saw that the humidity in the apartment was below normal. It can be lowered by ventilation, increasing the temperature, and also increased if you additionally supply water to the radiator or turn on the humidifier. And we wondered, together with our parents, why in our apartments we pay attention to temperature (we want it to be warm), to pollution (we want it to be clean) and do not pay attention to humidity, if this is such an important parameter that affects our health. And how can we influence humidity at home?
Humidity is a measure that characterizes the content of water vapor in the air. It is known that a person is 80-90% water, but not everyone realizes that the level of humidity in the atmosphere plays a significant role in human life.
The moisture content in the air can affect a person's overall well-being. Deviation of this parameter from normal values can imperceptibly and gradually reduce a person’s immunity, worsen skin condition, and increase fatigue; this has a particularly negative effect on young children. We all notice how humid air is beneficial for health, and we strive to spend weekends or holidays relaxing on the seashore, river or lake. A normal level of humidity has a beneficial effect on our well-being. The optimal level is 45-65% relative humidity. Being indoors, we disrupt the natural balance of humidity that is maintained by nature. And if in summer this is practically not noticeable, then in winter the difference in relative humidity indicators outdoors and indoors becomes very significant. This happens because when the outdoor air is heated by the heating system, the level of relative humidity drops, since the amount of moisture in the air did not change when it was heated, and the ability of the air to absorb moisture increases in proportion to the temperature increase. As a result, moisture begins to evaporate at an increased rate from our body, which leads to dry throat (and in general to dry mucous membranes of the nose and respiratory tract due to constant interaction with dry air), dry skin (primarily hands and face), dry lips, etc.
Table 1. Problems with deviations from optimal humidity
air humidity atmosphere health
Symptoms of poor health due to excessive dryness:
chapped skin and lips, nasal irritation, sore throat, breathing problems.
symptoms of deterioration in health due to excess humidity, allergic reactions, problems with asthma, rhinitis.
Repeated day after day, this unfavorable situation can lead to undesirable consequences, namely:
Fatigue
Since dry air makes it difficult for the body to receive oxygen, staying in such an atmosphere causes poor health, fatigue, and does not promote concentration.
Diseases of the mucous membranes
As a result of dry air, the ear, nose, throat and bronchial areas are affected. The mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, the so-called respiratory epithelium, lose their protective function. However, after restoration of normal humidity, regeneration of the protective qualities of the epithelium is possible. The mucous membrane of the eye also loses its protective functions, opening the way for bacterial infection. Dry air also causes additional irritation for those who wear contact lenses, since accelerated drying of the lenses causes discomfort, and with prolonged exposure has an adverse effect on the condition of the eyes in general.
Deterioration of the child's health
One of the main factors in caring for a child is the humidity of the air he breathes. For a healthy child, the humidity should be at least 50%, for a patient with a respiratory infection - at least 60%. If the air in the room is too dry, the child's mucous membranes dry out, his nose gets stuffy, and he often wakes up at night. Mucus accumulates in cavities and becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. In an infant, the mucous membrane of the oral cavity dries out and, as a result, pain may occur when sucking the breast.
Dry skin
Lack of moisture in the air accelerates the evaporation of water from the skin. It becomes dry, prone to inflammation, rough and begins to flake.
Dust
Humidity “binds” dust. Dry air and, in addition, the heat generated by heaters, on the contrary, lead to dust flying throughout the room. This is especially contraindicated for asthmatics and allergy sufferers. At the same time, electrostatic charges on clothing and objects increase.
Cracks in wooden objects
If the air in the room is constantly dry, furniture, parquet and other wooden objects gradually lose their original appearance. They begin to dry out and cracks appear over time. Out-of-tune musical instruments are also the result of insufficient air humidity.
Drying indoor plants
Lack of humidity leads to drying out of many house plants and flowers, the leaves of which are sensitive to humidity levels. Dry air can cause the edges of leaves to turn yellow and buds and flowers to drop.
Thus, information about relative humidity and air humidification during the autumn-winter season is relevant for every person, both at home and, if possible, at work. If you have children, then maintaining optimal humidity levels is your priority.
The effect of high humidity on human health
Car air conditioners will help create the right microclimate in your vehicle and provide protection from negative environmental factors.
The indoor microclimate plays a fairly important role for all the people who are inside it. A person’s well-being will depend on the microclimate. In this case, the optimal air temperature must be ensured. Also, do not forget about air humidity. After all, high humidity negatively affects the general condition of a person.
Taking this into account, it is recommended to use special equipment indoors to maintain an optimal microclimate. Vehicles are no exception, in which modern automobile air conditioners are increasingly used today.
You should especially avoid situations when the temperature in the room decreases, and the air humidity level, on the contrary, increases. In this case, people staying indoors may experience various diseases associated with hypothermia.
Elevated air temperatures along with humidity exceeding the maximum permissible standards also have an adverse effect on the body. The premises must provide an optimal combination of air temperature and humidity levels. It is especially necessary to monitor the microclimate in the car interior, because traffic safety will depend on the comfort and well-being of the driver. High-quality car air conditioners are perfect for normalizing humidity levels.
You can purchase modern car air conditioners at a fairly reasonable price. Moreover, air conditioners can be installed on almost any vehicle.
With a car air conditioner, the car owner will be able to provide himself and his passengers with a comfortable ride in any weather. At acceptable levels of humidity and air temperature, the driver and passengers will be able to easily endure trips over any distance.
In addition to the function of regulating the level of humidity and temperature, modern car air conditioners provide air purification. Such functions guarantee comfort and well-being.
Also, do not forget that high humidity promotes the development and proliferation of fungi, which can cause various diseases in humans. That is why it is worth taking care of protection from humidity as quickly as possible, thereby protecting yourself from its adverse effects. After all, as you know, it is better to prevent any disease than to then undergo long courses of treatment and take many different medications. An excellent means of protection and prevention for vehicle interiors are high-quality automobile air conditioners.
By reducing the humidity level to an acceptable limit, you can get rid of dampness in the room and, accordingly, provide yourself with protection from inflammatory processes in the respiratory system, allergies and other diseases that can be caused by dampness in a room or car interior. Therefore, you should not save on purchasing a car air conditioner, because health is most valuable.
How does air humidity affect humans?
Water is the source of life. Not only by absorbing it in its pure form or as part of various drinks, we provide all the moisture our body needs. In addition, our skin, eyes, and even the respiratory tract need sufficient moisture.
With insufficient air humidity, the skin inevitably begins to dry out, and as a result, it is more susceptible to various irritants, susceptible to allergens, and also ages much faster. All this is due to the fact that dry air tends to become saturated with moisture and begins, like a sponge, to “suck” it from all possible sources. Our skin is also under attack. Moisture is actively evaporating from the surface of the skin, the body uses all its reserves, resulting in constant thirst and dry mouth - another unpleasant consequence. Various specially developed creams and tonics help moisturize the skin. But dealing with dry skin in this case means trying to eliminate the consequences, only the symptoms, and not the root cause itself. And in this case, you are doomed to constantly replenish a drying source; it is better to immediately pay attention to maintaining the necessary humidity in the room, because we spend most of our time there.
Just as has already been said, the eyes also suffer from dry air, since in such conditions the evaporation of tears, which is extremely necessary, begins to increase too much. Tears moisturize the eyeballs, wash away foreign particles from them, in addition, tears have a strong antibacterial effect due to the content of lysozyme. As a result of the eyes functioning “dry,” eye fatigue increases, pathogenic viruses develop, and vision deteriorates. People who wear contact lenses suffer most from dry eyes, because for them, hydration of the eyeball is extremely important.
The list of examples of the consequences of excessive dry air on humans is endless. This also worsens allergies and respiratory diseases. Dry air destroys the protective barriers of the human body. Having a detrimental effect on the nasal mucosa and skin condition, it lowers a person’s immune strength, making him more susceptible to infectious diseases.
The concept of air humidity is defined as the actual presence of water particles in a certain physical environment, including the atmosphere. In this case, it is necessary to distinguish between absolute and relative humidity: in the first case we are talking about the pure percentage amount of moisture. According to the law of thermodynamics, the maximum content of water molecules in the air is limited. The maximum permissible level determines the relative humidity and depends on a number of factors:
- Atmosphere pressure;
- air temperature;
- presence of small particles (dust);
- level of chemical pollution;
The generally accepted measurement measure is percentage, and the calculation is carried out using a special formula, which will be discussed below.
Absolute humidity is measured in grams per cubic centimeter, which for convenience are also converted into percentages. As altitude increases, the amount of moisture may increase depending on the region, but once a certain ceiling is reached (approximately 6-7 kilometers above sea level), the humidity drops to around zero values. Absolute humidity is considered one of the main macroparameters: planetary climate maps and zones are compiled on its basis.
Humidity level determination
(A psychometer device - it is used to determine humidity by the temperature difference between a dry and wet thermometer)
Humidity by absolute ratio is determined using special instruments that determine the percentage of water molecules in the atmosphere. As a rule, daily fluctuations are negligible - this indicator can be considered static and does not reflect important climatic conditions. In contrast, relative humidity is subject to strong diurnal fluctuations and reflects the precise distribution of condensed moisture, its pressure and equilibrium saturation. This indicator is considered the main one and is calculated at least once a day.
Determination of relative air humidity is carried out using a complex formula that takes into account:
- current dew point;
- temperature;
- saturated steam pressure;
- various mathematical models;
In the practice of synoptic forecasts, a simplified approach is used when humidity is calculated approximately, taking into account the temperature difference and the dew point (the mark when excess moisture falls in the form of precipitation). This approach allows you to determine the required indicators with 90-95% accuracy, which is more than enough for everyday needs.
Dependence on natural factors
The content of water molecules in the air depends on the climatic characteristics of a particular region, weather conditions, atmospheric pressure and some other conditions. Thus, the highest absolute humidity is observed in tropical and coastal zones and reaches 5%. Relative humidity is further affected by fluctuations in a number of factors discussed earlier. During the rainy season with conditions of low atmospheric pressure, relative humidity levels can reach 85-95%. High pressure reduces the saturation of water vapor in the atmosphere, lowering its level accordingly.
An important feature of relative humidity is its dependence on the thermodynamic state. The natural equilibrium humidity is 100%, which, of course, is unattainable due to the extreme instability of the climate. Technogenic factors also influence fluctuations in atmospheric humidity. In megacities, there is increased evaporation of moisture from asphalt surfaces, simultaneously with the release of large amounts of suspended particles and carbon monoxide. This causes a strong decrease in humidity in most cities around the world.
Effect on the human body
The limits of atmospheric humidity that are comfortable for humans range from 40 to 70%. Prolonged stay in conditions of strong deviation from this norm can cause a noticeable deterioration in well-being, up to the development of pathological conditions. It should be noted that a person is especially sensitive to excessively low humidity, experiencing a number of characteristic symptoms:
- irritation of mucous membranes;
- development of chronic rhinitis;
- increased fatigue;
- deterioration of the skin condition;
- decreased immunity;
Among the negative effects of high humidity, one can note the risk of developing fungal and colds.