The temperature that has been dropping significantly in the past few days, and the severe cold that awaits us in the next few hours according to the weather forecast, has started as- already previewing us into the winter season: as always happens in such circumstances, people are starting to use the home heatingbut sometimes they are carried away.
Creating a comfortable environment within the walls of your home does not mean raising the level of the thermostat beyond certain thresholds, on the contrary: if you exceed the heat, unlike what would expect, health problems may begin,“especially for the changes in temperature when you go outside and for the vasodilation due to the heat”. It explains the best way to manage heat to avoid more serious problems for our body Giorgio SestiProfessor of Internal Medicine at the Sapienza University of Rome.
“The ideal temperature in winter, indoors, should be between 18 and 22 degrees, on average 20 degreesavoiding too dry air”in fact, explains the expert toAdnKronos. It is very important to keep the minimum level of humidity in the home, and even those who do not have a humidifier can easily remedy this by placing a container of water over the radiators as was done before . In fact, air that is too dry can trigger a series of problems, especially in those who already suffer from respiratory problems, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: “Dry air, of course, dries out the mucous membranes which, however, must be kept moist to perform their function. “specifies Dr. Sesti.
Adequate level of moisture and generally between 40 and 50%, but even in this case it is better not to be higher: “No more, otherwise we create a tropical climate that becomes a greenhouse”advising the professor,“An environment with proper humidity is necessary, especially at night, because if the mucous membranes dry out, you can breathe badly while you sleep, you can snore and the quality of your reduce sleep with general negative effects on the body. “.
Heating the rooms you live or work in, as well as hitting your bills, exposes you to drastic temperature changes even if you look out on a balcony for a few minutes and then go back to the house: a temperature of 24 degrees inevitably causes one vasodilatationtherefore going out into the cold outside, where the temperature is maybe 8 degrees, generates consequences such as changes in blood pressure, dizziness or respiratory disorders. “Elderly people who lie down or sit for a long time in very hot environments are at risk of falling when they get up suddenly due to vasodilation”the expert says, “When you stand up straight quickly, the blood does not go to the brain and you may feel dizzy.”
In addition to the correct temperature and humidity levels, however, it is better not to overlook another correct behavior, namelyventilation the daily life of the environment, even if you are small
encouraged to do so because of the cold: “Air exchange is a practice that should not be neglected to prevent viruses and bacteria from ascending and facilitating their spread. “Dr. Sesti explains in the conclusion.
2024-11-20 13:25:00
#Temperature #house #heat #bad #health
How can I balance maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature while ensuring proper ventilation?
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First Section: Understanding the Ideal Indoor Temperature and Preventing Health Issues
Interviewer: Can you please explain the ideal temperature range for indoor heating during the winter season and how it affects our health?
Professor Sesti: Certainly, the ideal indoor temperature during winter should be maintained between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius, with an average of about 20 degrees Celsius. Exceeding this temperature can cause a host of health issues, especially for the elderly or those with respiratory problems. It’s essential to keep the indoor air from getting too dry, with a humidity level of around 40-50%. In this regard, using a humidifier is recommended, but you can also place a container of water near the radiators. Avoid creating a “tropical climate” with excessive humidity as it can produce negative effects on your respiratory health.
Interviewer: Could you elaborate on the specific health risks associated with extreme temperatures, both hot and cold?
Professor Sesti: Absolutely. Extreme cold temperatures can lead to respiratory problems, chest tightness, and even increase the risk of cardiovascular issues such as arrhythmias and heart attacks. Conversely, prolonged exposure to high indoor temperatures leads to vasodilation, which can cause changes in blood pressure, dizziness, and respiratory disorders when going outside into cold temperatures.
Second Section: Ventilation and Air Quality
Interviewer: How important is ventilation in maintaining good air quality during the winter months?
Professor Sesti: Proper ventilation is crucial to maintain good air quality indoors. Not only does it prevent the accumulation of carbon dioxide and other harmful gases, but it also helps to remove viruses and bacteria that may be present in the air. It’s important to air out the rooms regularly, especially after cooking or cleaning.
Interviewer: What are some practical ways to maintain adequate ventilation without compromising indoor temperatures?
Professor Sesti: Ensuring proper insulation of windows and doors can help maintain indoor temperatures while still allowing for adequate ventilation
