Increased humidity in the atmospheric air as a percentage. How to increase air humidity in an apartment: signs of “dryness” and ways to eliminate it

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 detection

(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. 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.

Air humidity and precipitation

When the content of corrosive impurities in the air is insignificant, the main factor determining the rate of corrosion is atmospheric humidity. There is a classification of atmospheric corrosion depending on the degree of wetting of the metal surface.

1. In a dry atmosphere, in the absence of even very thin wet films, very slow oxidation occurs on the metal surface with the formation of extremely thin oxide films. This process is called dry corrosion. Its speed depends on the presence of admixtures of aggressive gases in the air. It is negligible, but if you consider that art monuments exist for many decades and even centuries, then this process cannot be neglected.

2. In an atmosphere with relative humidity below 100%, but in the presence of a thin invisible wet film on the metal surface, so-called wet atmospheric corrosion occurs. It depends on the degree of air humidity, its pollution and the hygroscopicity of corrosion products.

3. At a relative air humidity of about 100%, corrosion occurs when there is a relatively thick visible film of moisture on the metal surface, formed by condensation or due to rain, splashes, dew, etc. This corrosion is called wet atmospheric corrosion.

Consequently, in different geographical areas, the process of formation of atmospheric patina on monuments is associated with meteorological conditions. The rate of patina formation is greatly influenced by the amount of precipitation falling in the form of rain and snow, and the moistening of the surface of monuments with sea or river water. But often the moistening of the surface of monuments is caused not by direct precipitation, but by the adsorption or condensation of water vapor present in the atmosphere, and is associated with changes in temperature and relative humidity.

Atmospheric air is a mixture of dry air and water vapor, the amount of which in any geographic area can vary depending on temperature. In mid-latitudes, the content of water vapor in the air ranges from 0.2-2.5% (by mass), and near the sea coast in hot weather it reaches 4% (by volume).

Air humidity is characterized by various indicators, of which the most convenient and common is relative humidity (N). It represents either the ratio of the actual water vapor content to the maximum possible under given conditions, or the ratio of the partial pressure of water vapor in the air to the saturated vapor pressure at a given temperature, expressed as a percentage. The relative humidity value shows the degree of saturation of the air with water vapor. The relative humidity of air saturated with vapor is 100%.

At N≤ 30% air is considered dry, when N= 50 ÷ 60% - normal, with N≥ 80% - wet.

The rate of copper corrosion, and hence the formation of patina, in the presence of only water vapor in the air is very small and changes little with increasing humidity. Even with an increase in relative humidity to 100% in clean air, only slight tarnishing of the clean copper surface occurs (Fig. 3, curve 3). But if the air contains at least a little sulfur dioxide (0.01%), the corrosion rate with increasing humidity increases noticeably, although in the absence of moisture at normal temperature SO 2 has practically no effect on copper (Fig. 3, curves 1, 2, 4). A sharp increase in the corrosion rate is observed at a relative humidity of about 63-75% (Fig. 4, 5), which is called critical.

Rice. 3. The influence of relative humidity and SO 2 concentration in the atmosphere on copper corrosion: 1 - 0.01% S0 2; N - 99%; 2 - 0.01% SO 2; N = 50%; 3 - 0% SO 2; N = 100%; 4 - 10% SO 2; H = 0%.

Rice. 4. The influence of relative air humidity on copper corrosion at an S0 2 concentration equal to 10%: 1 - H = 50%; 2 - 63%; 3 -75%; 4 - 99%

Rice. 5. The influence of relative air humidity at an S0 2 concentration of 10% on the corrosion rate of copper

In this regard, the more often the humidity is equal to or exceeds the critical value, i.e., the more days in a year with relative atmospheric humidity above 63%, the faster patina forms on monuments.

From the data in table. 1 and 2 it is clear that in cities such as Moscow, Leningrad, Riga, Smolensk, Kiev, Baku, Odessa, Vladivostok, etc., i.e., in most regions of the country, with the exception of the driest regions of Central Asia, the average annual relative humidity above 63%. The average annual relative humidity in the European part of the USSR is 75.9%. In many areas of the European part of the USSR, the time during which relative humidity exceeds 70% accounts for more than 70% of the total annual time (see Table 2). With such humidity, due to periodic cooling of atmospheric air, capillary condensation and adsorption of water vapor, thin wet films are formed on the surface of monuments, i.e. monuments are moistened not only during precipitation, but also at other times, amounting in some areas to 90% of the annual time . Consequently, throughout almost the entire territory of our country there are almost always conditions conducive to the formation of atmospheric patina on monuments.

TABLE 1. RELATIVE AIR HUMIDITY IN VARIOUS CITIES OF THE USSR

City	N, %
	monthly average		average annual
	minimum	maximum
Smolensk	68,7	89,5	82,2
Murmansk	73,8	89,3	81,3
Riga	71,2	89,2	80,5
Minsk	65,8	89,0	80,3
Leningrad	63,5	86,5	78,4
Odessa	67,0	91,2	78,1
Batumi	62,2	83,0	75,7
Kyiv	63,8	87,8	76,7
Baku	61,5	83,8	74,8
Moscow	57,2	85,2	71,5
Sverdlovsk	54,0	84,0	72,5
Tbilisi	58,5	75,0	67,2
Novosibirsk	58,8	82,2	72,2
Vladivostok	50,8	94,5	71,8
Almaty	38,8	77,2	54,9
Tashkent	35,3	76,8	52,9
Average value N throughout the European part of the USSR	62,1	86,7	75,9

TABLE 2. RELATIVE HUMIDITY * OF AIR IN DIFFERENT CITIES

City	N≥80%	N=70÷80%	H≤ 70%
Smolensk	72,6	14,6	12,8
Murmansk	66,3	23,6	10,1
Riga	64,6	19,8	15,6
Minsk	63,5	19,8	16,7
Leningrad	58,7	24,3	17,0
Odessa	47,2	30,2	22,6
Baku	43,4	31,6	25,0
Kyiv	42,3	26,7	31,0
Novosibirsk	37,9	33,3	28,8
Vladivostok	34,4	14,6	51,0
Batumi	34,0	47,9	18,1
Moscow	32,3	29,8	37,9
Sverdlovsk	31,3	35,0	33,7
Tbilisi	10,0	38,0	52,0
Tashkent	6,9	6,3	86,8
Almaty	1,0	21,5	77,5
* Time during which this humidity occurs, % of the year.

In areas with the highest relative humidity, for example in Leningrad, patina forms very intensively even on those monuments that are never exposed to precipitation, including on the doors of the Kazan and St. Isaac's Cathedrals, located in deep porticoes. A patina also forms on Central Asian monuments. And although here, due to the relatively low average annual relative humidity and fewer days with high humidity, the primary dark oxide patina lasts longer, on the ancient monuments of Samarkand, Bukhara and other ancient cities, bronze parts are covered with olive and green patina.

Air is necessary for humans to breathe. It plays a big role in the heat exchange processes of the body. Unfavorable changes in air can cause significant disturbances in the body: overheating or hypothermia of the body, hypoxia, decreased performance, the occurrence of infectious and other diseases. The influence of the air environment occurs through the action of climatic and weather factors, which can also have an indirect effect on humans, changing the hygienic properties of homes, clothing, soil, etc.

In populated areas and indoor spaces, the air is constantly polluted and changes its properties, therefore there is a need for its sanitary protection from pollution and constant sanitary control of its properties. The state of the air environment during muscular activity, including during physical exercise, is of great hygienic importance, which is associated with an increase in pulmonary ventilation, greater heat generation, etc.

When hygienic assessment of air, the following factors are taken into account:

1) physical properties (atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity, speed, direction of movement, cooling capacity, electrical state, radioactivity, etc.);

2) chemical composition (permanent components of air and foreign gases);

3) mechanical impurities (content of dust, smoke, soot, etc.);

4) bacterial contamination (presence of microbes in the air). Since these air factors act

on the body in a complex manner, in hygiene it is customary to consider the impact of each of them only conditionally. Indicators of the physical properties of air are usually called meteorological factors. The hygienic characteristics of the air environment are given based on a comparison of research results with hygienic standards. This takes into account the impact of air on people’s health and performance.

In sports practice, sanitary and hygienic air testing is of great importance. It allows you to take the necessary measures in a timely manner to ensure optimal conditions for those involved in physical education and sports.

2.1. Air temperature

The hygienic value of air temperature is determined primarily by its influence on the body’s heat exchange, which is one of the types of interaction of the body with the external environment. Thanks to the perfection of thermoregulation mechanisms controlled by the central nervous system, a person adapts to different temperature conditions and can briefly tolerate significant deviations from optimal temperatures.

The bulk of heat is lost from the surface of the skin by:

Radiation to colder surrounding objects (about 45%);

Conduction, or convection, that is, layer-by-layer heating of air adjacent to the body and usually in some movement (about 30%);

Evaporation of moisture from the surface of the skin and mucous membranes of the respiratory tract (about 25%).

The given heat loss values ​​are approximate and are typical for a state of rest at room temperature. At high or low air temperatures and during physical work, these values ​​change significantly. However, no matter how perfect the processes of thermoregulation are, with significant fluctuations in external temperature they sometimes cannot ensure the thermal balance of the body.

At low air temperatures, due to significant heat transfer, hypothermia of the body can occur, which impairs blood circulation and reduces the resistance of the body's immunological properties. Hypothermia contributes to the occurrence of colds, as well as diseases of the peripheral nervous system, muscles and joints. Along with these general disorders, local disorders may also be observed: frostbite of the hands, legs, ears, nose, etc. When performing physical exercises in conditions of low external temperature, there is also a danger of damage to muscles and ligaments, since this reduces their elasticity.

In conditions of high external temperature, due to difficulty in heat transfer, the body may overheat. In a person at rest, thermoregulation disturbances are observed when the air temperature exceeds 30-31 °C (at a relative humidity of 80-90%) or 40 °C (at a relative humidity of 40-50%). Naturally, when performing muscular work, overheating can occur at lower air temperatures. It should be taken into account that when the air temperature is above 38-40 ° C, heat accumulates in the body also as a result of the heating effect of the air and surrounding objects.

In residential premises, depending on climatic conditions, the following air temperature standards are recommended: for cold climates - 21 °C, for moderate and warm climates - 18-19 °C, for hot climates - 17-18 °C. The difference in air temperature horizontally (from walls with windows to opposite walls) should not exceed 2 °C, and vertically (from floor level to head level) - 2.5 °C.

Temperature standards in indoor sports facilities in accordance with SNiP 11-76-78 are characterized by the following values. Gyms designed for 800 or more spectators - + 18 °C in the cold season with a relative humidity of 40-45% and not higher than + 25 °C in the warm season with a relative humidity of 50-55%. Gyms designed for 800 or fewer spectators - + 18 °C in the cold season and no more than 3 °C above the calculated outside air temperature in the warm season. Sports hall without seats for spectators - + 15 °C. Indoor skating rinks without seats for spectators - + 14 °C. Shooting galleries and fire zones of indoor shooting ranges, as well as shooting galleries at open shooting ranges with loopholes - + 18 °C. Lobbies-warmers of skating rinks and ski lodges - + 16 °C.

In indoor swimming pools, the air temperature is as follows: in the pool hall (with or without seats for spectators) 1-2 °C higher than the temperature of the water in the bath, the hall for preparatory classes - + 18 °C, the lobby (for students) - + 20 °C.

The air temperature in auxiliary rooms should be as follows: in classrooms, teaching rooms - + 18 °C, in changing rooms and showers - + 25 °C, in massage rooms - + 22 °C, in sanitary facilities - + 25 °C.

Temperature standards for outdoor sports have not been established, since the heat exchange of the body, in addition to air temperature, is also influenced by other meteorological factors. Normal body temperature is maintained by clothing,

intense physical activity and depends on the degree of hardening of the athlete.

Training sessions and competitions at air temperatures above + 30 °C and below - 25 °C are not recommended. If it is necessary to conduct classes, you should strictly adhere to hygiene rules to prevent overheating and frostbite.

2.2. Air humidity

Due to the evaporation of moisture, there is always a certain amount of water vapor in the air, which determines the humidity of the air. The degree of air humidity varies depending on a number of conditions: air temperature, altitude above sea level, the location of seas, rivers and other large bodies of water in a given area, the nature of vegetation, etc. Water vapor in the air, like other gases, has elasticity, which measured by the height of the mercury column in millimeters.

As the amount of water vapor in the air increases, its elasticity increases and reaches a certain limit at which the vapor saturates the space. Each air temperature corresponds to a certain degree of saturation with water vapor.

Exceeding the air saturation limit causes the release of moisture in the form of fog, dew, frost, etc. Air humidity is characterized by the following basic concepts: absolute humidity, maximum humidity, relative humidity.

Absolute humidity- elasticity (mm Hg) or the amount of water vapor (g) currently present in 1 m 3 of air. Maximum humidity- water vapor pressure (mm Hg) when the air is completely saturated with moisture at a given temperature or the amount of water vapor (g) required to completely saturate 1 m 3 at the same temperature. Relative humidity- the ratio of absolute humidity to maximum, expressed as a percentage, in other words - the percentage of air saturation with water vapor at the time of observation. Relative air humidity is determined by the formula:

where O is relative humidity (%), A is absolute humidity (mm Hg), M is maximum humidity (mm Hg).

Heat loss largely depends on the degree of air saturation with water vapor. The same air temperature is felt differently depending on the degree of humidity, which affects the process of evaporation from the surface of the body.

Relative humidity is of greatest hygienic importance. It gives an idea of ​​the degree of saturation of the air with water vapor and indicates its ability to accept additional amounts of water vapor when evaporating from the surface of the skin. For example, the lower the relative humidity, the less the air is saturated with water vapor.

The impact of air humidity on the body is mainly due to the fact that it significantly affects heat transfer processes. Increased humidity at high external temperatures contributes to overheating of the body, since this significantly worsens the conditions for heat transfer. At air temperatures above + 25-30 ° C, the main way the body releases heat is the evaporation of sweat. However, the body gives off heat only when sweat evaporates from the surface of the skin (when 1 g of sweat evaporates, the body loses 0.6 kcal). With increased air humidity, the evaporation of sweat slows down significantly, and heat transfer decreases sharply. This has a particularly negative effect during muscle activity, when the body intensively produces heat, so when performing physical exercises in conditions of high humidity and air temperature, there is always a danger of the body overheating.

Low air humidity at high external temperatures promotes good heat transfer and makes it easier to tolerate heat (the climate of Central Asia, where dry air ensures rapid evaporation of sweat).

Increased air humidity at low external temperatures helps cool the body, as it increases heat transfer. This is due to a number of reasons. First of all, heat loss increases, as the thermal conductivity of air increases, because water vapor has a higher thermal conductivity than air. At the same time, the thermal conductivity of clothing fabrics increases (the air contained in the vapors of the fabrics becomes more thermally conductive), and therefore heat quickly leaves the space under the clothing. Prolonged stay in conditions of high air humidity and at air temperatures below - 10-15 ° C can lead to hypothermia and cause colds and other diseases (rheumatism, pulmonary tuberculosis, etc.).

The norm for relative air humidity for premises is 30-60%. A significant range of this norm depends on air temperature and other conditions. For people at rest, at an air temperature of + 16-20 ° C and little movement, the air humidity should be at least 40-60%. During muscular activity, if the air temperature is within + 15-20 ° C, the air humidity should be 30-40%, and at a temperature of + 25 ° C - 20-25%. In gyms (at an air temperature of + 15 ° C) and in the halls for preparatory classes in swimming pools (at an air temperature of + 18 ° C), the relative air humidity should be 35-60%, and in the bath rooms of indoor pools (at an air temperature of + 26 °C) - 50-65%.

2.3. Air movement

Movements of air masses arise due to uneven distribution of atmospheric pressure and air temperature. Air movements are characterized by direction and speed. It is necessary to take into account the direction of air movement when practicing many sports, and especially such as sailing, iceboating, gliding, parachuting, etc. Data on the prevailing air direction in a certain area are important when designing and constructing sports facilities: they allow you to choose the right location for sports facilities, and also locate them on the windward side in relation to industrial enterprises that can pollute the air with smoke and gas.

Determining the direction of air movement can also help create the correct weather forecast, which should be taken into account when organizing training and competitions. For example, in the European part of Russia in summer, eastern winds usually bring dry weather, while western winds bring cooler and rainier weather; southwestern - cloudy; northeastern - clear weather. In winter, easterly winds bring cold weather; Western - warm; southeastern - warming, precipitation; northeastern - cooling, decreased precipitation.

The directions of air movement are determined by the point on the horizon from which the wind blows, and are designated by the initial letters of the cardinal points: N (north), S (south), W (west), E (east). Along with the main points, there are intermediate ones located between them. The entire horizon is divided into eight directions: north, north

rho-east, east, south-east, south, south-west, west, northwest. When designating intermediate points, indicate both points between which the given direction is located, placing the main point first in order. For example, if the wind direction is between north and northeast, then this intermediate direction is called NNE (north-northeast).

To study the prevailing wind directions in a given area, a special diagram called “wind roses” is used. Having drawn up a graph of the cardinal points, they lay off segments from the center at certain points of reference, the length corresponding to the number of observed winds per day, as a percentage of the total number of winds for a given period. The ends of the segments are connected by straight lines. The absence of wind (calm) is indicated by a circle in the center of the graph, the radius of which must correspond to the number of days of calm weather. The “wind rose” compiled in this way shows the prevailing direction of air movement in a given area. When designing and constructing sports facilities used year-round or in different seasons, it is necessary to take into account the “wind rose” corresponding to these periods.

Air speed- a significant factor that has a significant impact on human heat exchange. Its importance for the body’s thermoregulation must be considered in conjunction with the effect of temperature and air humidity. At low temperatures, high air speed helps cool the body. The wind displaces heated air from under clothing and increases its movement around the body. At high temperatures, moving air increases heat transfer through convection and evaporation of sweat. However, this beneficial effect of wind is observed in cases where the air temperature is lower than body temperature. In the opposite case, if the air temperature exceeds body temperature, moving air, instead of cooling, helps to heat the body.

The speed of air movement has a certain neuropsychic effect. Cool and moderate wind tones the body, while strong and prolonged wind causes excitement and irritation. Constant wind noise is also unpleasant for humans. Strong headwinds impede the athlete's movement when walking, running, cycling, rowing, etc. It also makes breathing difficult.

In sports practice, there is often a need to determine and take into account the speed of air movement. She plays pain

important role during training and competitions, primarily in sports such as sailing, parachuting, iceboating, gliding, etc. When exercising outdoors, you should always take into account the effect of wind speed on heat transfer and the athlete’s neuropsychic state. If possible, during training conditions should be created that exclude the adverse effects of wind on the body.

Wind speed must be taken into account when determining athletic performance. For example, the rules of athletics competitions indicate that records in straight running and long jump are not registered if the tailwind speed exceeds 2 m/s. Data on air velocity are of particular importance when assessing microclimatic conditions in calculating the efficiency of ventilation in indoor sports facilities.

In the summer, depending on temperature conditions and the type of activity, the body's heat transfer improves at an air speed of 1-4 m/s. Wind speeds above 6-7 m/s usually have an irritating effect. For residential premises, the air movement speed should not exceed

0.1-0.3 m/s.

The speed of air movement in areas where people engage in sports can be as follows: in the bathtub halls of indoor swimming pools - 0.2 m/s; in gyms for wrestling, table tennis and indoor skating rinks - 0.3 m/s; in other gyms and halls for preparatory classes in swimming pools - 0.5 m/s.

It should also be noted that thermoregulation is influenced by thermal (infrared) rays coming from the sun and other heated objects. At high ambient temperatures, heat rays contribute to overheating of the body, and at low temperatures, infrared radiation helps maintain thermal balance.

With the most favorable combination of temperature, humidity, air speed and other factors, a person experiences a pleasant feeling of warmth; He exhibits thermal balance and normal course of all physiological functions. Such meteorological conditions are usually called comfort. Conversely, a combination of meteorological factors that disrupt the body’s thermoregulation is called discomfort.

High temperature and humidity, lack of air movement and significant intensity of solar radiation are very undesirable when performing physical exercises.

ny. In these cases, due to deterioration of heat transfer conditions, increased heat production and large heat load, overheating of the body can quickly occur.

Low temperature and high air humidity with strong winds contribute to significant cooling of the body and can cause various colds. When engaging in physical exercise in such conditions, there is a risk of colds and frostbite occurring in those involved.

2.4. Atmosphere pressure

The air surrounding the globe has a pressure called atmospheric, or barometric. Atmospheric pressure at the surface of the earth constantly changes depending on geographic and atmospheric conditions, time of year and day. But these fluctuations do not have a noticeable effect on healthy people. In people suffering from certain ailments (rheumatism, disorders of the nervous and cardiovascular systems, etc.), changes in atmospheric pressure may cause pain, deterioration in mood, sleep, and exacerbation of diseases. For sports practice, the study of changes in atmospheric pressure is also of particular interest.

The study of the dynamics of atmospheric pressure can be used to predict the weather and make appropriate adjustments when planning the training process, organizing competitions, conducting tourist trips, etc. An increase in atmospheric pressure in the middle zone of our country is usually a harbinger of dry, clear weather, and a decrease is a harbinger of cloudy and rainy weather. . However, for an accurate weather forecast, it is necessary, along with atmospheric pressure, to also take into account other meteorological factors.

Recently, in sports practice, special attention has been paid to studying the influence of conditions associated with low atmospheric pressure on the body of athletes. This is mainly due to the fact that major competitions (European and World Championships and the Olympic Games) are increasingly being held in places with low atmospheric pressure.

As altitude increases, there is a gradual drop in atmospheric pressure. It decreases by approximately 30-35 mmHg. Art. for every 100-500 m of ascent. If you fall -

As atmospheric pressure decreases, the partial pressure of the gases that make up the air decreases, including oxygen, the amount of which also decreases in the alveolar air.

2.5. Chemical composition of air

The chemical composition of air is of great hygienic importance, since it plays a decisive role in the respiratory function of the body. Atmospheric air is a mixture of oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen and inert gases in a certain proportion.

Oxygen(O 2) is the most important component of air for humans. At rest, a person usually absorbs an average of 0.3 liters of oxygen per minute. During physical activity, oxygen consumption increases sharply and can reach 4.5-5 or more liters per minute. Fluctuations in the oxygen content in atmospheric air are insignificant and, as a rule, do not exceed 0.5%.

In residential, public and sports premises, no significant changes in oxygen content are observed, since outside air penetrates into them. Under the most unfavorable indoor conditions, a decrease in oxygen content of 1% was noted. Such fluctuations in oxygen concentration do not have a noticeable effect on the body. Typically, physiological changes are observed when the oxygen volume decreases to 16-17%. When the oxygen content decreases to 11-13%, pronounced oxygen deficiency appears, causing a sharp deterioration in well-being and a drop in performance. A decrease in oxygen content to 7-8% can be fatal.

In sports practice, oxygen inhalation is used to increase the athlete’s performance and the intensity of recovery processes.

Carbon dioxide, or carbon dioxide(CO 2), is a colorless, odorless gas formed during the respiration of people and animals, rotting and decomposition of organic substances, combustion of fuel, etc. In atmospheric air outside populated areas, the CO2 content averages 0.04%, and in industrial centers it the concentration increases to 0.05-0.06%. In residential and public buildings, when there are a large number of people in them, the CO 2 content can increase to 0.6-0.8%. Under the worst hygienic conditions in the premises (large concentrations of people -

dey, poor ventilation, etc.) the CO2 content usually does not exceed 1% due to the penetration of outside air. The indicated concentrations of CO2 do not cause negative effects in the body.

With prolonged inhalation of air containing 1-1.5% CO2, a deterioration in health is noted, and at a concentration of 2-2.5% certain pathological changes are detected. Significant disruption of body functions and decreased performance occur when the CO2 concentration is 3-4%. With a higher carbon dioxide content in the air (10-12%), cases of loss of consciousness and death are observed. A significant increase in CO2 concentration can occur in emergency situations in confined spaces (mines, mines, submarines, bomb shelters, etc.) or in places where intensive decomposition of organic substances occurs.

Determining the CO2 content in residential, public and sports facilities can serve as an indirect indicator of air pollution from human waste products. As already noted, carbon dioxide itself in the concentrations in which it occurs indoors (up to 1%) does not cause harm to the body. However, in parallel with the increase in CO2 content in indoor air, there is a deterioration in the physical and chemical properties of the air (temperature and humidity increase, the amount of light aeroins decreases, and foul-smelling gases appear), therefore, by the concentration of CO2, one can judge the sanitary state of the air in the room. Indoor air is considered to be of poor quality if the CO2 content in it exceeds 0.1%. This value is accepted as a calculated value when designing and installing ventilation in residential premises.

2.6. Types of air pollution. Air protection

Anthropogenic environmental pollution through atmospheric air has a negative impact on the human body and causes a range of pathological changes of various origins. The active process of urbanization, the development of industry and transport also leads to significant pollution of the atmospheric air of cities, which, in turn, causes an increase in morbidity and a decrease in the adaptive capabilities of the body, especially in children.

The air environment can become polluted with harmful gaseous impurities, dust and microorganisms. Among the gaseous impurities that pollute the air, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide, hydrogen sulfide and various microorganisms and suspended particles have a certain hygienic significance.

Carbon monoxide(CO) is a colorless and odorless gas. It is formed during incomplete combustion of fuel and enters the atmospheric air mainly with industrial emissions and exhaust gases from internal combustion engines. The most significant air pollution with carbon monoxide is observed in cities on narrow streets with heavy traffic, where the CO content sometimes reaches 50-200 mg/m3. Carbon monoxide can enter the room due to improper use of stove heating (premature closing of chimneys), as well as due to a gas leak or incomplete combustion. It should be emphasized that when smoking, carbon monoxide also enters the body, the content of which in tobacco smoke is 0.5-1%. In sports practice, the danger of CO poisoning most often arises when adjusting the engines of racing cars and motorcycles, when exhaust gases accumulate indoors.

Carbon monoxide is a blood poison and a generally toxic poison. Together with the inhaled air, it enters the lungs and through them enters the blood, reacting with hemoglobin (blocking it), forming carboxyhemoglobin. As a result, hemoglobin loses its ability to carry oxygen to the tissues of the body. Along with this, part of the CO from the blood penetrates into the tissues, causing disturbances in tissue respiration. With prolonged exposure to even small doses of carbon monoxide (20-40 mg/m3), chronic poisoning can occur, manifested in deterioration of well-being and dysfunction of the central nervous system.

Acute poisoning of the body occurs when the CO content in the air is 200-500 mg/m3. In this case, headache, dizziness, general weakness, nausea, and vomiting occur. If these symptoms appear, the victim must be immediately taken to fresh air, given artificial respiration and provided with medical assistance. The maximum permissible average daily concentration of carbon monoxide is 1 mg/m3, arazova - 6 mg/m3.

Nitrous oxide(NO). When nitrogen oxides come into contact with the moist surface of the lungs, nitric and nitrous acids are formed, which can lead to the development of pulmonary edema. At the same time in the blood

Nitrates and nitrites are formed, which directly act on the blood vessels, dilate them and cause a decrease in blood pressure.

Hydrogen sulfide(H 2 S) has an irritating effect on the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract, eyes, and also inhibits the function of tissue respiratory enzymes. Chronic exposure to hydrogen sulfide causes rhinitis, bronchitis, conjunctivitis, headaches, indigestion, anemia, and decreased hearing acuity.

Microorganisms are almost always found in atmospheric air in small quantities; they are brought in mainly with soil dust. Causative agents of infectious diseases entering the atmospheric air, as a rule, quickly die. The air in residential and sports premises is particularly dangerous in terms of epidemics. With a significant crowd of people, poor ventilation and cleaning systems, there can be a large number of microbes in the air. For example, in gymnasiums, as well as in athletics arenas, microbial contents of up to 26,000 per 1 m 3 of air were observed. Significant bacterial contamination of the air contributes to the spread of so-called aerogenic infections (influenza, measles, scarlet fever, tuberculosis, etc.).

To sanitize indoor air, artificial sources of ultraviolet radiation are now widely used - bactericidal lamps that emit short-wave ultraviolet rays, which have a detrimental effect on microbes. Germicidal lamps are mounted on the ceiling in special fittings. When there are no people in the room, direct air irradiation is used: ultraviolet rays are directed downward. If there are people in the room, an indirect irradiation method is used: ultraviolet rays are directed to the ceiling. The air moving in the upper zone above the bactericidal lamps undergoes the necessary sanitation. Depending on the purpose of the premises, one or another method of irradiation is used. It has been established that with the indirect method of irradiation during training sessions, bacterial contamination of the air is reduced by an average of 50%. This method is very promising for air sanitation in sports facilities.

Suspended particles (dust, smoke) usually always contained in the air in certain quantities. They are dense particles of mineral or organic origin suspended in the air.

A significant amount of dust in the air has an adverse effect on the body. Once in the lungs, dust partially lingers there and can cause various diseases. Along with it, pathogenic microbes enter the body. They can remain on dust particles for a long time and be transported over considerable distances. Dust makes sweating difficult and prevents the evaporation of sweat; it also has a negative effect on the skin, which can lead to some skin diseases. Under industrial conditions, various types of dust (lead, chrome) can enter the body, causing poisoning.

High dust content in the atmosphere reduces the intensity of ultraviolet radiation, changes the degree and nature of air ionization, contributes to the occurrence of fogs, and has a negative effect on vegetation.

The degree of air dust must be taken into account when choosing the location of sports facilities, physical exercise and sports, as well as conducting industrial gymnastics. In the atmospheric air of cities in average daily samples, the amount of dust should not be more than 0.15 mg/m3.

Particular attention should be paid to dust in sports facilities, which should have an area of ​​green space that prevents dust from entering the grounds and halls. Thus, outdoor sports grounds must be regularly watered during the hot season, and in indoor sports facilities measures should be taken to prevent the introduction of dust from shoes and outerwear. To do this, it is recommended to carry out wet cleaning some time after the end of classes, when the dust has already had time to settle.

Atmospheric air can be polluted by various harmful gases and vapors: sulfur dioxide, chlorine, nitrogen oxides, carbon disulfide, fluorine, etc. The highest concentration of these substances is usually observed near industrial enterprises in cities. In places where the air is polluted with harmful gases, it is impossible to build sports facilities and conduct physical exercises and sports. It is also unacceptable to carry out industrial exercises in workshops and on the territories of enterprises where there are harmful impurities in the air.

Sanitary protection of atmospheric air is an important hygienic problem, which is given national importance. In our country, measures for sanitary protection of atmospheric air include planning, sanitary and technical

technological measures; development of maximum permissible concentrations of air pollutants.

One of the important measures to protect atmospheric air is the systematic implementation of preventive and ongoing sanitary supervision and laboratory control of air cleanliness.

Questions for self-control

1. The impact of air pollution on human health.

2. By what factors is air assessed?

3. The effect on humans of increased carbon dioxide content in the room.

4. Composition of atmospheric air.

5. Air pollutants.

6. Measures to prevent air pollution.

Why does a change in weather affect a person’s well-being?

If you are a person whose well-being can be used to predict the weather, then this article is just for you.

In my article, I want to talk about how changes in temperature, air humidity and atmospheric pressure affect human health and how you can avoid the negative impact of weather conditions on your body.

Man is a child of nature and is an integral part of it!

Everything in this world has its own balance and clear relationship; in this case, we will talk about the connection between weather conditions and human well-being.

Some people, often moving across time and climate zones (frequent flights), constantly change the climate and feel very comfortable.

Others, on the contrary, “lying on the couch” feel the slightest fluctuations in temperature and atmospheric pressure, which in turn negatively affects their well-being - it is this sensitivity to changes in weather conditions that is called weather dependence.

Weather-dependent people or people - “barometers” - are most often patients suffering from diseases of the cardiovascular system, who often work long hours, are constantly overtired and do not get enough rest.

Weather-dependent people include people with diseases of atherosclerosis of the vessels of the heart, brain and lower extremities, patients with diseases of the respiratory system, musculoskeletal system, allergy sufferers and patients with neurasthenia.

How do changes in atmospheric pressure affect on a person’s well-being?

In order for a person to be comfortable, the atmospheric pressure must be equal to 750 mm. rt. pillar

If the atmospheric pressure deviates even by 10 mm in one direction or another, a person feels uncomfortable and this can affect his health.

What happens when atmospheric pressure decreases?

As atmospheric pressure decreases, air humidity increases, precipitation and an increase in air temperature are possible.

The first to feel a decrease in atmospheric pressure are people with low blood pressure (hypotonics), “heart patients,” as well as people with respiratory diseases.

Most often, there is general weakness, difficulty breathing, a feeling of lack of air, and shortness of breath occurs.

A decrease in atmospheric pressure is especially acutely and painfully felt by people with high intracranial pressure. Their migraine attacks worsen. In the digestive tract, not everything is in order either - discomfort appears in the intestines due to increased gas formation.

How to help yourself?

• An important point is to normalize your blood pressure and maintain it at the usual (normal) level.
• Drink more fluids (green tea, with honey)
• Don't skip your morning coffee these days.
• These days you shouldn't give up your morning coffee.
• Take tinctures of ginseng, lemongrass, and eleutherococcus
• After a working day, take a contrast shower
• Go to bed earlier than usual

What happens when atmospheric pressure increases?

When atmospheric pressure rises, the weather becomes clear and does not have sudden changes in humidity and temperature.

With an increase in atmospheric pressure, the health of hypertensive patients, patients suffering from bronchial asthma and allergy sufferers worsens.

When the weather becomes calm, the concentration of harmful industrial impurities in the city air increases, which are an irritating factor for people with respiratory diseases.

Frequent complaints are headaches, malaise, heart pain and decreased general ability to work. An increase in atmospheric pressure negatively affects the emotional background and is often the main cause of sexual disorders.

Another negative characteristic of high atmospheric pressure is decreased immunity. This is explained by the fact that an increase in atmospheric pressure lowers the number of leukocytes in the blood, and the body becomes more vulnerable to various infections.

How to help yourself?

• Do some light morning exercise
• Take a contrast shower
• Morning breakfast should contain more potassium (cottage cheese, raisins, dried apricots, bananas)
• Don't overeat during the day
• If you have increased intracranial pressure, take the medications prescribed by your neuropathologist in advance
• Take care of your nervous and immune system - do not start important things on this day
• Try to spend this day with minimal expenditure of physical strength and emotions, because your mood will leave much to be desired
• When you get home, rest for about 40 minutes, go about your daily activities and try to go to bed early.

How do changes in air humidity affect on a person’s well-being?

Low air humidity is considered to be 30 - 40%, which means that the air becomes dry and can be irritating to the nasal mucosa.

Allergy sufferers and asthmatics suffer when the air is dry.

What to do?

• In order to moisturize the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx, rinse through the nose with a slightly salted solution or ordinary non-carbonated water.
• Now there are many nasal sprays that contain mineral salts, help moisturize the nasal passages and nasopharynx, relieve swelling and help improve nasal breathing.

What happens to the body when air humidity rises?

Increased air humidity is 70 - 90% when the climate is characterized by frequent precipitation. An example of weather with high air humidity can be Russia and Sochi.

High air humidity negatively affects people with respiratory diseases, because at this time the risk of developing hypothermia and colds increases.

Increased air humidity contributes to the exacerbation of chronic diseases of the kidneys, joints and inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs (appendages).

How to help yourself?

• If possible, change the climate to dry
• Reduce exposure to damp and wet weather
• Stay warm when leaving home
• Take your vitamins
• Treat and prevent chronic diseases in a timely manner

How do changes in air temperature affect a person’s well-being?

For the human body, the optimal ambient temperature is 18 degrees; this is the temperature recommended to maintain in the room where you sleep.

Sudden changes in temperature are accompanied by changes in the oxygen content in the atmospheric air, and this significantly depresses a person’s well-being.

A person is a living creature that needs oxygen in order to live and naturally feel good.

When the ambient temperature decreases, the air becomes saturated with oxygen, and when it warms, on the contrary, there is less oxygen in the air and therefore it is difficult for us to breathe in hot weather.

When air temperature rises and atmospheric pressure decreases, people with cardiovascular and respiratory diseases are the first to suffer.

When, on the contrary, the temperature decreases and the atmospheric pressure increases, it is especially difficult for hypertensive patients, asthmatics, people with diseases of the digestive tract and those who suffer from urolithiasis.

With a sharp and significant fluctuation in ambient temperature, by about 10 degrees during the day, a large amount of histamine is produced in the body.

Histamine is a substance that provokes the development of allergic reactions in the body in healthy people, not to mention allergy sufferers.

How to help yourself?

• In this regard, before a sharp cold snap, limit the consumption of foods that can cause allergies (citrus fruits, chocolate, coffee, tomatoes)
• During extreme heat, the body loses a large amount of fluid, and therefore, in the summer, drink more purified water - this will help preserve your heart, blood vessels and kidneys.
• Always listen to weather forecasts. Having information about temperature changes will help you reduce the likelihood of exacerbations of chronic diseases, and maybe protect you from the emergence of new health problems?!

What are magnetic storms And How do they affect a person’s well-being?

Solar flares, eclipses and other geophysical and cosmic factors affect human health.

Have you probably noticed that over the past 15 - 25 years, along with the weather forecast, they talk about magnetic storms and warn about possible exacerbations of diseases in certain categories of people?

Each of us reacts to magnetic storms, but not everyone notices it, much less associates it with a magnetic storm.

According to statistics, it is on the days of magnetic storms that the largest number of ambulance calls occur for hypertensive crises, heart attacks and strokes.

These days, not only the number of hospitalizations in cardiology and neurology departments is increasing, but also the number of deaths due to heart attacks and strokes is growing.

Why do magnetic storms prevent us from living?

During magnetic storms, the work of the pituitary gland is inhibited.

The pituitary gland is a gland that is located in the brain and produces melatonin.

Melatonin is a substance that, in turn, controls the functioning of the gonads and the adrenal cortex, and the metabolism and adaptation of our body to unfavorable environmental conditions depend on the adrenal cortex.

Once upon a time, studies were even conducted in which it was proven that during magnetic storms the production of melatonin is suppressed, and more cortisol, the stress hormone, is released in the adrenal cortex.

Prolonged or frequent exposure to magnetic storms on the body can lead to disruption of biorhythms, which are also controlled by the pituitary gland. The result of this can be not only a deterioration in well-being, but also serious health problems (for example: neuroses, chronic fatigue syndrome, hormonal imbalances).

In conclusion, I would like to say that people who spend little time outdoors suffer more often from weather changes, and therefore even minor weather fluctuations can cause poor health.

“11 ways to get rid of weather dependence”

1. Hardening

2. Swimming

3. Walking, running

4. Frequent walks in the fresh air

5. Healthy and nutritious diet

6. Get enough sleep

7. Correction of the emotional sphere (autogenic training, relaxation, yoga, massage, conversation with a psychologist)

8. Taking vitamins

9. Eating seasonal foods

10. Giving up bad habits

11. Weight normalization

Tips in case of sudden weather changes

• Limit physical activity.
• Avoid additional emotional and physical stress.
• Monitor your blood pressure and do not forget to take the medications prescribed to you by your cardiologist. Neurologist, pulmonologist or allergist.
• Don't overeat or overuse salt.
• Walk outdoors for at least 1 hour before going to bed.
• If your blood pressure rises, massage your neck and thoracic spine.
• Take anti-anxiety medications.
• Don't forget about vitamins C and B.

If you have read the article to the end, then you are really worried about the state of your health and you clearly feel the weather fluctuations.

But what if not the mood deteriorates when environmental changes interfere with our lives? And if this happens often, we are exposed to constant negativity, of which there is already a lot around us, and then there’s the weather….

Each area has its own climate. We get so used to the climatic conditions of our region and rarely think about the harm or benefit they have on our health. We propose to deal with this issue in this article.

So what is climate? This collective concept includes a list of natural factors, such as temperature and humidity, altitude, wind strength, sunlight and others characteristic of a particular area. Weather refers to the state of the lower atmospheric layer in a certain area during a specific period of time. The weather is set under the influence of climatic factors, which, in turn, have different effects on a person’s well-being and health: they can strengthen the immune system, or they can cause diseases, but the key word here is influence!

During its existence, the body adapts to changing environmental conditions thanks to adaptive reactions, and 2-3 weeks are enough to adapt to a new climate without stress. Moreover, a person is able to adapt to the most extreme conditions (a striking example is the Ice Age), but this requires time, much more than a couple of weeks. And when this time does not exist, adaptive reactions become destructive, for example, when a person goes on vacation to the tropics in winter: in addition to a sharp change in climate, biological rhythms fail (desynchronosis), and one aggravates the other.

Dependence on weather factors exists, and for some people it is very strong. The strength of the body's response to changes in environmental factors is called the “meteotropic reaction.” All people with increased sensitivity to climatic factors are divided into 2 categories:

1. Weather dependent. They feel bad when the weather changes, atmospheric pressure changes, sudden temperature changes, etc. The condition returns to normal when the weather returns to normal.
2. People who do not tolerate a certain climate or factor characteristic of a climate zone: high humidity, strong wind, low temperature, etc. These factors cause a number of diseases. The condition improves only with climate change.

Increases weather dependence:

• chronic diseases;
• dysfunction of the heart and blood vessels;
• stress;
• physical inactivity;
• childhood and old age;
• characteristics of the individual.

Weather and climate have an impact even on those whose bodies do not respond to weather changes. Some “general” diseases worsen at certain times of the year: colds, viral diseases and inflammatory processes of the respiratory system most often occur in winter and in the off-season, and the height of intestinal infections occurs in the summer.

It is a well-known fact that a number of diseases become much easier for a person after recovery in the recommended climatic conditions. Many methods of balneological treatment are based on this: health resorts and sanatoriums located in a certain area invite a narrow category of patients to improve their health.

Today there is a separate direction in medicine - climatotherapy, rooted in history. The influence of weather and climatic factors on health began to be studied in the 18th century. Even then, many climatic resorts appeared where people with tuberculosis and nervous diseases were treated.

Before the active development of synthetic pharmacology, therapy for many diseases was carried out in health resorts, which have now been transformed from places of treatment to places of recreation. However, the importance of climatotherapy is increasing every year, especially against the backdrop of the fact that many people are switching to natural, natural methods of treatment, thereby reducing the drug burden on the body.

• Mountain (not alpine!) climate has a positive effect on the condition of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems and is recommended for patients with bronchitis, chronic inflammatory processes in the lungs, bronchial asthma, pulmonary tuberculosis, anemia, as well as children and adults with reduced immunity. It has a positive effect on the treatment of diseases of the nervous system and is especially recommended for asthenics.
• The maritime climate increases immunity and improves the body's adaptive capabilities. Recommended for patients suffering from diseases of the respiratory system, metabolism, nervous system, thyroid dysfunction and pathologies of the musculoskeletal system (in autumn and spring, when the air temperature is not yet high).
• Forest-steppe climate with its characteristic moderate humidity and slight temperature difference, it is most favorable for patients with vascular and heart diseases.
• The desert climate is characterized by dry air and high air temperatures. It causes intense sweating, and salts come out with sweat, which has a positive effect on the standing of people with certain kidney diseases.
• The forest climate of the middle zone with a predominance of coniferous forests is optimal for the treatment of diseases of the respiratory system (including bronchial asthma) and the nervous system, hypertension, and coronary artery disease. Many essential oils heal the respiratory tract, improve blood circulation and have a positive effect on the immune system.

The most popular sanatoriums are located in places where several resort areas intersect, which greatly increases the effectiveness of treatment for a wide range of diseases. The combination of mountain and sea climates (the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus, Abkhazia, the southern coast of Crimea) has a particularly positive effect on health.

People with increased meteosensitivity should not live and work in the Far North and equatorial climate - the body will experience enormous stress! It is recommended to undergo preventive treatment in health resorts that are located in the climatic zone of residence.

Let's consider the influence of individual climatic factors on health.

The influence of temperature factors on the body

The intensity of thermoregulation and metabolism directly depends on air temperature. For example, when T is below 18 degrees, our energy goes to warming the body, and the metabolic rate increases compensatoryly. At elevated temperatures, metabolism is slowed down, superficial vessels are dilated for better heat transfer, water evaporation increases both from the pulmonary alveoli and from the surface of the skin: all these mechanisms help to avoid overheating. The optimal physiological level for the body is considered to be 18-20 C.

Temperature depends on the altitude above sea level, geographic latitude, and the time of year, so it is never constant, and the human body constantly adapts to its changes, reacting to changes purely individually.

Let's consider the positive and negative effects of different temperatures on health

Positive	Negative	How to avoid negative influences
High temperatures
blood circulation improves due to the penetration of heat into the body to a depth of 5 cm and dilation of blood vessels; metabolism and tissue nutrition improves. Increased vascular permeability determines easier penetration of beneficial substances into tissues and removal of metabolic products from the intercellular space; the analgesic effect is realized by reducing the sensitivity of nerve endings located in the superficial areas of muscle tissue and in the skin.	When overheated, immunity decreases. Prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures reduces lymphocyte activity. That is why in the hot summer months there is a high incidence of ARVI; general condition worsens. The central nervous system reacts to high temperatures (above 28 C) with weakness, drowsiness and loss of strength; skin inflammatory reactions develop due to the expansion of pores and increased secretion of sebum and sweat, i.e. optimal conditions are created for bacteria to penetrate the skin.	avoid overheating, especially for children and the elderly; wear natural clothes, protect your head from the sun. Linen clothing is optimal, as it is known to keep you cool when worn; observe the drinking regime: constantly drink clean drinking water, but in small portions.
Low temperatures
hardening of the body occurs. Short exposure to cold has a stimulating effect on the immune system and reduces the risk of developing respiratory pathologies. Stress that develops in the body due to low temperatures leads to the release of cortisol, which increases metabolism and increases the activity of the immune system; sensitivity to cold decreases. In conditions of low temperatures, skin vessels compensatoryly narrow, reducing heat loss; cellular aging processes slow down and collagen production accelerates; the growth of pathogenic flora stops. Microbes that live in soil, food and water stop reproducing at temperatures below 0 C; body weight decreases. In the cold, metabolism is activated and fat breakdown is accelerated.	The body's defenses decrease with prolonged hypothermia. In cold-sensitive areas (bronchial mucosa, throat and nose), vascular spasm occurs, and this leads to the development of an inflammatory reaction; A cold allergy such as urticaria may develop. This is due to the deposition of insoluble proteins in the skin, which are formed against the background of low temperatures. Typical for people with helminthic infestation, systemic lupus erythematosus, pathologies of the liver and biliary tract.	avoid hypothermia; Prepare for hardening procedures gradually: take a contrast shower, use douche, contrast rubdown, gradually lowering the water temperature.

Lately, nature likes to play jokes, so snow in May or warm January are already perceived calmly. But the body is not used to such jumps. Abnormal warming, which occurs in winter, develops due to the invasion of warm air masses: atmospheric pressure decreases, humidity increases, and the level of oxygen in the air decreases. Therefore, even healthy people during this period feel overwhelmed and drowsy, and some experience worsening chronic diseases. During this period, it is recommended to get plenty of rest, avoid stress, and give up heavy foods.

The effect of humidity on health and immunity

Air humidity is formed by microscopic particles of water dissolved in the environment. Humidity directly depends on air temperature: the higher it is, the more moisture is in suspension. Normal indicators are 60-80%. Low humidity less than 55% negatively affects the mucous membranes and skin, which dry out and lose their protective properties. High humidity prevents the normal evaporation of sweat, which is why a person does not tolerate heat well and increases the risk of heat stroke. In addition, with high humidity, sub-zero temperatures are poorly tolerated.

Positive effects of normal humidity

• Normal humidity supports local immunity of the respiratory tract, which means it protects against the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms into the respiratory system.
• Improves the synthesis of bronchopulmonary secretions. The cilia of the ciliated epithelium remove mucus to the outside, along with bacteria, allergens and dust.

Negative Impact

High humidity:

• sharply increases the risk of overheating and hypothermia: frostbite of the legs, arms, face and other parts of the body can already occur at a temperature of -5-10 C;
• increases the risk of colds because it weakens the immune system. In addition, excessively humid air is always characterized by a high content of viruses, bacteria and fungal spores;
• leads to deterioration of the condition of people with diseases of bones and joints, lungs;
• coupled with high temperature causes fatigue, irritability and discomfort.

Low humidity:

• leads to drying out of the mucous membranes, which is manifested by pain in the eyes, nosebleeds, nasal congestion, and frequent colds;
• increases the risk of respiratory diseases: mucus, thickening and stagnating in the nose and bronchi, becomes a good environment for the proliferation of viruses, bacteria and the accumulation of allergens;
• leads to disruption of ionic balance, and positively charged ions become predominant in the body;
• worsens the condition of allergy and asthma sufferers.

To prevent the negative impact of this factor on health, you should:

• maintain normal humidity in the room. To track indicators, there are special devices - hygrometers. If the air is dry, it needs to be moistened by ventilation or using a special humidifier, and if there is excessive humidity, it should be slightly dried;
• Regularly ventilate the premises - this contributes to the formation of a healthy environment.

The influence of atmospheric pressure on immunity

The unit of atmospheric pressure is a conventional indicator that denotes air pressure per unit area. Normal values ​​are 760-770 mmHg. When the weather changes, minor fluctuations in atmospheric pressure most often occur, which are balanced by internal pressure. Air moves from a high-pressure zone to a low-pressure zone to balance the difference, and as a result, anticyclones, cyclones, fogs, etc. appear.

Significant surges that occur during atmospheric fronts when air currents with different temperatures collide can cause attacks of dizziness, migraines and surges in blood pressure. These negative manifestations are associated with a slowdown in blood flow, which is compensated by the release of adrenaline and an increase in blood pressure. In weather-dependent people, the release of adrenaline causes unpleasant sensations. Thus, neither high nor low atmospheric pressure has a positive effect.

Negative influence

Low atmospheric pressure (less than 750 mmHg), which occurs during a cyclone	High atmospheric pressure (above 780 mmHg), which develops during an anticyclone
General weakness, drowsiness, loss of strength, migraine, shortness of breath, digestive dysfunction (diarrhea and abdominal pain) are common manifestations that develop in people with low blood pressure, pathologies of the lungs and bronchi.	Deterioration in the well-being of allergy sufferers, asthmatics, and hypertensive patients due to high air pollution and a large number of impurities in it, which are manifested by heart pain, headaches, and general weakness.
Additional stress on the heart, blood vessels and brain due to the fact that the level of dissolved gases in the blood and tissues increases.	Persistent vasospasm (usually in a combination of high pressure and low temperatures), leading to a jump in blood pressure in hypertensive patients. And coupled with blood thickening, this carries a direct risk of stroke and heart attack, a greater number of cases of which are recorded at high atmospheric pressure.
A decrease in the strength of heart contractions, which leads to the development of tachycardia.	Decreased resistance to infections¸ which develops against the background of a decrease in leukocytes in the blood.

For weather-sensitive people, it is not so important what pressure has established itself, but the fact of a change in this weather factor (differences of 10-20 gP during the day are considered strong). To avoid changes in your condition during changes in atmospheric pressure, especially for people with increased weather sensitivity, you should:

• get a good night's sleep and avoid overwork;
• perform light exercises in the morning to improve blood circulation;
• take a contrast shower, which improves the condition of blood vessels;
• follow a light, low-calorie diet and saturate the diet with potassium-containing foods: spinach, nuts, mushrooms, dried fruits;
• For patients with chronic pathologies, it is very important to follow all doctor’s recommendations and not skip medications.

The effect of wind speed on health

The wind we are used to is the movement of air masses, during which the upper and lower layers of air mix, which reduces gas pollution and makes breathing easier. The optimal indicator is 1-4 m/s: with such wind, heat exchange and thermoregulation occur at a physiological level.

Positive influence

• Wind within 1-4 m/s reduces dust and air pollution in megacities, reduces the concentration of harmful chemicals and smog.
• Together with warm weather (20-22 C), it improves the evaporation of moisture from the skin, has a tonic effect on the body, and activates internal reserves;
• At a wind speed of 4-8 m/s, the functioning of the nervous, immune and endocrine systems improves, and the body's resistance to infections improves;
• Reduces the risk of overheating in hot weather.

Negative Impact

• Wind of more than 20 m/s causes difficulty breathing: it affects the mechanoreceptors of the respiratory tract mucosa and causes a reflex narrowing of the vocal cords and bronchi. Increases heat transfer, so the cold is more noticeable in windy weather;
• Causes anxiety and restlessness;
• Increases the risk of colds. Wind, and especially drafts, cause muscle and vascular spasms in a local area of ​​the body, after which inflammation and pain develop and optimal conditions are created for the proliferation of bacteria. It is in this scenario that neuralgia, runny nose, mild colds, exacerbation of chronic rheumatism, radiculitis often develop;
• It dries out the mucous membranes and skin, which impair their protective properties. The skin begins to peel, dries out, cracks, and pathogenic flora easily penetrates microdamages.

• avoid drafts;
• dress according to the weather.

The effect of air pollution on immunity

Residents of megacities breathe air polluted by exhaust particles, emissions from factories and enterprises, coal combustion products, and dust. Together, these substances create a dangerous aerosol in the air, which increases the risk of developing coronary artery disease, thrombosis, bronchial asthma and other allergic diseases, inflammatory processes of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and cancer. A particular health hazard is posed by smog - a fog of harmful chemical particles that “hangs” over large cities in weather without wind.

The air we breathe contains positively and negatively charged ions, the percentage of which depends on the time of year, the purity of the atmosphere, atmospheric pressure and other factors. Positively charged particles negatively affect humans, causing headaches, fatigue, general malaise and increasing the risk of heart attack. Negatively charged ions accelerate wound healing, improve mood and well-being.

Positive Impact

Air with naturally occurring impurities has a positive effect on health.

• Sea salts. The air on the sea coast is characterized by high humidity and a special composition: it is saturated with salts and minerals from sea water. This air environment has a beneficial effect on the bronchi and lungs, reducing the likelihood of croup and exacerbation of bronchial asthma.
• Some phytoncides, which are released by coniferous trees (young pines, spruce, thuja, fir), as well as poplar and birch, have a detrimental effect on bacteria and fungi and stop their growth.
• Negatively charged ions. There are especially many of them in the air after a thunderstorm, as well as near mountain waterfalls and on the banks of reservoirs. Ions with a negative charge accelerate the recovery of the body after infections and injuries, normalize the condition of the mucous membranes lining the respiratory tract, and have a positive effect on the central nervous system.

Bad influence

• Carbon and nitrogen monoxide causes oxygen starvation, leading to malaise and headaches. The main contribution to the formation of these compounds comes from motor vehicles and emissions from industrial enterprises.
• Sulfur dioxide is a compound that irritates the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and eyes and reduces their protective properties. Causes conjunctivitis, bronchitis, heart and vascular diseases. It is actively formed during the combustion of coal at thermal power plants and enters the air with industrial emissions.
• Soot is a carcinogen. Its particles less than 5 microns settle in the alveoli and are no longer removed from there, causing lung diseases. Formed by the combustion of rubber, plastics, and hydrocarbons.

How to avoid negative influence:

• use high-quality, certified indoor air purifiers and ionizers, not forgetting to change filters in a timely manner;
• carry out scheduled replacement of filters in air conditioners;
• if possible, take walks more often in parks remote from the highways or outside the city;
• undergo speleotherapy sessions with a course of 10 procedures 2 times a year, especially for people suffering from allergic diseases of the nervous and respiratory systems;
• Regularly ventilate living areas.

The effect of solar radiation on immunity

The totality of all the energy coming from the sun is called solar radiation. Ultraviolet radiation is of greatest importance for the body, which, depending on the spectrum, penetrates to different depths into the tissue, having different effects on the body. The influence of ultraviolet radiation is described in more detail in our separate article; we will dwell on the main points that relate to immunity.

Positive influence

• Sunlight is necessary for normal human life - an insufficient number of sunny days leads to a deficiency of serotonin and endorphins and depression, which negatively affects the immune system. Getting enough sunlight improves your mood and stimulates your brain.
• Activates the work of all organs and systems, accelerates blood circulation and metabolism.
• Activates the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin, which is involved in the metabolism of phosphorus and calcium, and a number of other processes.
• Accelerates the treatment of skin diseases such as psoriasis, eczema, acne.
• Has a detrimental effect on pathogenic microorganisms.
• The warmth of the sun warms up and relaxes muscles, relieves soreness.
• Visible sun rays are directly involved in the work of the visual analyzer, providing color vision - they are reflected from various objects, fall on the retina and turn into nerve impulses, which are already analyzed by the brain.
• Synchronizes biorhythms, ensuring alternation of sleep and wakefulness.

Negative Impact

The negative impact is associated with excessive exposure to solar radiation on humans.

• Can lead to sunstroke, a dangerous condition that can be fatal.
• Causes exacerbation of chronic diseases.
• Suppresses the immune system.
• Causes sunburn and photodermatitis.
• Reduces visual acuity.
• Accelerates skin aging and dehydrates it.
• Increases the risk of developing skin cancer and accelerates the progression of existing cancer.

How to avoid negative influence:

• Avoid exposure to open sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.;
• observe the drinking regime: at least 1.5-2 liters of clean water during the day;
• use products with UV protection for the skin both during tanning and during everyday activities, protect the head, body and eyes from direct sunlight: wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, natural clothes in light colors;
• Follow the rules of healthy tanning.

The influence of water and soil composition on immunity

A person receives various minerals, macro- and microelements with water and food, the composition of which largely depends on the types of soil: water passes through its layers and is saturated with elements, plants grow on the ground and also receive various components from it. The composition and quantity of chemical elements often changes in a negative direction due to human economic activity.

Positive Impact

• Iodine ensures the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, in particular, the production of iodine-containing hormones that regulate metabolic processes in the body. With iodine deficiency, endemic goiter develops in the body.
• Fluoride increases the density of bone tissue and teeth, and a deficiency of the element causes caries.
• Cobalt is involved in the synthesis and absorption of vitamin B12, while its deficiency leads to a deficiency of this vitamin.

Negative Impact

• Excess fluoride of more than 1.5 mg/l leads to the development of fluorosis: damage to tooth enamel. This situation is typical for soil with mineral deposits, and also occurs during the activities of enterprises producing nitrates, superphosphates, and aluminum.
• Salts of heavy metals, such as zinc, lead, cadmium, mercury, which enter the soil and water with smoke and wastewater from industrial enterprises, accumulate in the body and lead to severe poisoning.
• Radioactive elements. The Chernobyl accident made the greatest contribution to chemical pollution of water and soil. Radon, uranium, thorium, lead, radioactive iodine and other radionuclides emit gamma rays and irradiate humans, and also enter the body with water, food and cause cancer.
• Soil contamination by bacteria, fungi, worm eggs and protozoa leads to the fact that they enter the body through contact, food and air, causing a number of diseases: helminthic infestations, dysentery, viral hepatitis, typhoid fever.

How to avoid negative influence:

• try to buy environmentally friendly products;
• drink purified (filtered) or bottled water, especially when in other countries. If this is not possible, it is allowed to boil tap water (as a temporary solution);
• Wash your hands with soap before eating and food before eating.

The effect of altitude on immunity

As altitude increases, the concentration of oxygen in the air decreases. To restore the level of oxygen saturation in the blood, compensatory mechanisms are triggered: the heartbeat and breathing rate increase, and the level of red blood cells in the blood increases.

Positive Impact

• Mountain air is considered the cleanest: it is devoid of dangerous impurities and is saturated with negatively charged ions. People living in mountainous areas have an increased level of red blood cells and a rapid response of the immune system to the introduction of the pathogen: immunoglobulins are synthesized at an increased rate. A priori, highlanders have minimized contact with pathogens and their immunity is not weakened, unlike urban residents.
• Clean air, unpolluted soil and organic foods have a positive effect on overall health.
• High levels of solar radiation activate the synthesis of vitamin D, which, according to recent research, is involved in stimulating the growth of immune cells that destroy cancerous tumors.

Negative Impact

• At an altitude of 4,000 thousand meters above sea level and more, all cells of the body suffer from oxygen deficiency - so-called altitude sickness occurs. Brain cells are most sensitive to hypoxia, so a person feels headache, dizziness, and depressed mood. The myocardium suffers from lack of oxygen and develops ischemic heart disease.
• A decrease in atmospheric pressure leads to a jump in blood pressure and increases the risk of a heart attack.
• An increase in solar radiation and a weakening magnetic field accelerates cell aging and slows down their regeneration.

How to avoid negative influence:

• do not climb to an altitude of more than 4000 above sea level without special training;
• when hiking in mountainous areas, you should gradually adapt to new conditions, getting used to each new altitude (the average adaptation period is 3-14 days);
• You should not climb mountains if there is an exacerbation of chronic diseases and the presence of serious pathologies of the heart and blood vessels.

Effect of magnetic field on immunity

The static geomagnetic field is created by our planet and affects health. The body also has its own magnetic field. The balance of magnetic fields leads to balance in the body and preservation of health. But there are weather-dependent people, and for them geomagnetic storms, which are caused by solar flares, are dangerous to their health.

Positive Impact

• The magnetic field is involved in maintaining daily biorhythms.
• Strengthens the immune system (a decrease in the magnetic field increases the tendency to frequent diseases).
• Improves the permeability of the vascular wall, the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to tissues.
• Improves the functioning of the central nervous system.
• Slows down the growth of tumors, in particular colon cancer.

Negative Impact

Geomagnetic storms that occur 2-4 times a month:

• They disrupt circadian biorhythms, in particular, disrupt the synthesis of hormones that control daily activity and cause insomnia.
• They change the emotional background - cause attacks of anger, depression, even suicidal thoughts.
• Slow down reaction speed and increase the risk of injury. At this time, the number of road accidents, accidents and accidents doubles.
• They interfere with heart function, causing tachycardia and increasing the risk of myocardial infarction (especially 1 day after the start of storms). The vascular system is the most vulnerable: receptors on the walls of blood vessels detect fluctuations in the magnetic field and resonate with them. This leads to a narrowing of the blood vessels in the brain, a slowdown in blood flow, an increase in blood pressure and blood viscosity, and these are the risks of dangerous acute heart diseases.

Some doctors and scientists believe that fluctuations in the magnetic field have a positive effect on biological processes: for many thousands of years, the human internal clock was coordinated with the rhythms of the sun and stars. Those. Magnetic field fluctuations and solar flares are a kind of wind-up for the body and internal clock and keep the body in good shape. But such a positive effect is realized only if the person is completely healthy, and, alas, there are few of them.

How to avoid negative influences during geomagnetic storms:

• take medications for preventive purposes;
• take acetylsalicylic acid preparations to reduce blood clotting;
• take tincture of motherwort or valerian;
• do not overeat, avoid fatty and difficult-to-digest foods, drink still mineral water, vegetable juices;
• Do not wear clothes made of natural fur or 100% synthetics during this period (they attract electricity);
• monitor meteorologists' forecasts: as a rule, they report the approach of a geomagnetic storm 2 days in advance.

Note to weather sensitive people! There are places where magnetic storms and solar activity are especially strong: the upper layers of the atmosphere at an altitude of 9-11 km above the ground (when traveling by plane) and in the north (Scandinavian Peninsula).

The influence of climate on children

Everyone knows that adaptive reactions to changes in climate and weather (acclimatization) in children are more complex and take a long period of time. A growing organism is the most vulnerable in this regard. Changes in geographic latitudes lead to a malfunction in the immune system, and the respiratory system is the first to be affected.

Many protective mechanisms in children are imperfect, and the younger the child, the stronger the reaction to temperature changes, the intensity of solar radiation, changes in humidity, atmospheric pressure and other natural factors. And most often such a “blow” to the body occurs during a long-awaited vacation.

To avoid ending up in a hospital ward instead of a pleasant stay, you should follow a number of recommendations:

• Climate. Seaside resorts with low humidity and temperatures that do not go through the roof are ideal: the northern shores of the Caspian Sea, Anapa, Gelendzhik, Italy, Greece and France.

These are the mildest conditions for acclimatization.

• Timezone . The time difference should not exceed 2 hours. It is especially dangerous when the clock hands are moved much forward - the excitability of the central nervous system increases and hormonal imbalance may develop.
• Duration of the trip. All pediatricians say that it is not worth going for less than 3 weeks. This is fair - at least 5 days will be needed for adaptation, even if it goes unnoticed.
  

How to reduce the negative impact of climatic factors on immunity

The influence of a combination of climatic factors affects the well-being of different people in different ways. In the body of relatively healthy people, when the weather changes, the restructuring of physiological processes to the changed conditions occurs in a timely manner. In people with chronic diseases, the elderly and those who are weather-sensitive, adaptive reactions are weakened, so the body reacts to climate change. However, weather dependence, even in its extreme manifestations, is not a disease, but requires increased attention to oneself and one’s health.

To reduce weather dependence and improve adaptive reactions to changing weather conditions, it is recommended:

• exercise regularly, at least 2-3 times a week, while reducing significant physical activity;
• spend more time outdoors in “clean” areas: in the forest, park;
• harden yourself by choosing the optimal method in accordance with your state of health;
• periodically take vitamin and mineral complexes (vitamins A, E, C are especially important) or monitor the vitamin and mineral content of food;
• get enough sleep, spending at least 7 hours a day;
• take a course of general massage once every six months;
• take soothing herbal medicines to reduce the excitability of the central nervous system (mint, lemon balm) or inhalation with mint and lavender, and in case of loss of strength - tinctures of eleutherococcus, lemongrass or ginseng;
• give up alcohol and smoking, limit coffee and strong tea, replace them with herbal teas or high-quality green teas with honey;
• include in the menu dishes from seaweed, fish, beans, lentils, beets, cranberries. 30 minutes before meals, it is recommended to drink freshly squeezed vegetable and fruit juices, clean water with the addition of lemon juice.

However, these measures do not always bring relief, and people have to change their place of residence or move to a different climate zone.