Humidity Effects: This is what humidity does to the body | – Times of India

Monsoon season in India may bring respite from the ongoing heat stroke and sharp rise in the temperature. However, it may impact the human body in various ways. While high humidity can make the environment uncomfortable, it also has both positive and negative effects on health. Excessive moisture in the air can cause frizzy hair, increased sweating, and exacerbate asthma symptoms, while low humidity can result in dry skin and worsen allergy symptoms.Managing humidity levels within the home using devices like dehumidifiers and humidifiers can alleviate some of these issues.
High humidity often results in frizzy hair. The high moisture levels in the air cause hair to curl and appear frizzy. Supermarket aisles abound with products designed to “control the frizz,” but these solutions may not always work, especially in extreme humidity.

Loss of moisture

High humidity levels can also lead to increased sweating. When humidity is high, the body feels hotter than the actual temperature, triggering an increase in sweating. Excess humidity hampers sweat evaporation, leaving moisture on the skin and making individuals feel warmer. Utilizing a whole-home dehumidifier, which integrates with the HVAC system, helps to reduce indoor moisture levels. Properly sized air conditioning systems also assist in reducing humidity by condensing water vapor and draining the moisture out of the home.

Can exacerbate breathing problems

Both low and high humidity levels can impact asthma and allergy symptoms. As humidity drops, nasal passages become dry, potentially aggravating allergy symptoms and causing nosebleeds, which could lead to sinus infections if not monitored. Increased indoor humidity using a humidifier can provide relief, but it’s crucial not to overdo it. On the other hand, high humidity can worsen asthma by making breathing more difficult and promoting the growth of mold spores and other asthma triggers.

Overheat in body

Another significant effect of high humidity is the risk of overheating. While humidity does not increase the actual temperature, it tricks the body into feeling hotter. Excessive sweating and the inability to cool down can lead to critical health issues such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Symptoms include exhaustion, headaches, fever, chills, and disorientation, and in severe cases, it can be fatal. Staying indoors during extremely hot days and using dehumidifiers and air conditioners can help manage the risk. Opting for indoor exercises like yoga or treadmill running can also prevent overheating.
Maintaining appropriate indoor humidity levels can help mitigate these effects. It’s important to manage humidity extremes for a comfortable living environment. Using dehumidifiers and air conditioners, particularly in summer, and humidifiers during drier months can maintain an optimal balance.