We may not find time to exercise regularly or eat healthy. We pardon ourselves for these goof-ups and carry on. However, we would do anything not to let an unhealthy environment build in our homes. Till the time we can, we go to any length to eliminate any possible health risk at our home.
This being said, health risks crop up from nowhere no matter how cautious we are. Let me take you through 7 common health hazards that may be developing under your nose.
1 – Poisonous moulds
You must have heard about the phrase “Wrecker-in-Chief” or “Arch Assassin”. These phrases perfectly suit the personality of moulds. These are microscopic beings which excel in moist areas. Soon, they begin to infest our wall pores, floor tiles and kitchen sinks.
The mycotoxins present in them produces poisonous air which is harmful for our nerves and lungs. Moulds can be the reason for simple skin rashes to acute memory loss in humans.
2 – Lead
It is odd how lead, so inconspicuous in nature, can become an enemy when found in homes. It can be present in paint, plastic toys or even the water you drink. It can cause pain in joints, hypertension and even infertility (if inhaled or consumed in higher proportions).
Children are more vulnerable against it and can develop symptoms of anaemia or brain damage on consuming lead regularly. A lead test, and nothing short of it, is prerequisite.
3 – Triclosan and Triclocarban
These are biocides, largely found in antibacterial soaps and home detergents. They impede our resistance to antibiotics and can be especially harmful to our endocrine system. In worse cases, they can also be carcinogenic or cancer-producing.
4 – Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced when carbon is released in an environment that lacks oxygen (O2). In such cases, carbon monoxide is produced in place of carbon dioxide (CO2). CO is extremely toxic and can cause death as it combines with haemoglobin to produce carboxyhaemoglobin that cannot carry oxygen to living cells.
For safety, do not run propane or oil furnaces in closed areas and ensure that you have a CO detector at home.
5 – Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Benzene, Formaldehyde and Methylyne Chloride are instances of VOCs. They are largely present in paints and air fresheners. Their effects can range from headache and eye irritation to kidney and nerve damage.
6 – Acetone
You must be using scuff removers at home. With a little dose of bad luck, these removers may get infested by Acetone, a neurotoxin, which can be harmful for the liver, kidney and even a new born baby. Using Hydrogen Peroxide or Ethyl Acetate may prove a safer choice.
7 – Dust Mites
These are microscopic bugs hidden in beddings. They are known to trigger symptoms of asthma in individuals. If you are already suffering from bouts of asthma, they can aggravate the symptoms.
It is thus very significant to use bed sheets that are washed with hot water or vacuumed by powerful filters.
Be safe rather than sorry
While building or renovating your home, try to make it as eco-friendly as possible. Avail green options and try to get as many tests performed as you can. At any rate, ensure that you do not miss out on conducting a Lead test and installing a Carbon Monoxide detector.
Have you ever found any health hazards in your home?
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