How To Protect Yourself During The Haze Season?

Hello haze season. Of course I am not thrilled at all but it is what it is. In Southeast Asia, haze has been a recurring problem every single year. It is usually due to the burning of forests in some countries to clear land. For the Malaysians, it has become a common phenomena every year. Even though we’ve been dealing with the dry weather annually, yet, we still struggle to cope with it. Just like the rest of you out there, I am constantly trying to find ways to steer clear from the health repercussions that we are about to face.

“Some days you just have to create your own sunshine.“

*Anonymous*

Dry nose, itchy throat and irritated eyes are all common symptoms during the haze season. You might even start coughing and sneezing too. If you are dealing with sinus, good luck getting it under control. Do not be surprised when you start noticing everyone around you is falling sick too. The real challenge is trying to stay as healthy as possible amidst the sick people and the harsh weather. Usually, that is not possible but what’s the harm in trying right?

Instead of reasoning out, I think it’s best to figure out how to cope with it. Since it has become an annual thing now, most likely it will occur next year and the year after too so might as well buckle up and brave it out. I’ve come up with a few things that we can do to protect ourselves while our battle continues. Are you ready to find out how to protect yourself during the haze season?

1. Mask up.

Masks are meant to not only protect you but also for others around you. The normal masks wouldn’t be able to filter the fine particles of haze but it can prevent the discomfort that you might face. Wear masks if you find yourself developing the common symptoms of haze. If you have difficulty in breathing, opt for N95 masks so you can breathe better when you are outside.

2. Stay hydrated.

Drink a lot of water or fluids to sooth your itchy throat. Increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables to help flush toxin out of your skin and lungs. To improve your immune system, consume foods rich in vitamin C, E and omega-3. For the time being, cut down on alcohol and coffee to prevent dehydration. Try green tea and other hydrating teas that make you feel better.

3. If you are indoor…

Close all the doors and windows. Switch on the fan or air-conditioner to minimize the fine particles of haze. Invest in air purifiers if you think the air is not clean enough. Mopping and wiping regularly might help too to keep the dust away. The key is to keep your home clean and dust-free so do whatever it takes so you can breathe in clean air.

4. If you are outdoor…

Don’t stay out for prolonged hours. Check the weather and haze readings online before you head out if you have to be out there for really long hours. If the haze is getting bad, minimize your outdoor activities and make it indoor until it’s on the safe radar again. Wear thin and airy clothes because the weather can be really dry with no air movement at all.

5. Wash frequently.

Sanitize whenever you can. Wash your face and hands as soon as you get to the house if you’ve been outside. Your face and hands are always in contact with the haze particles so it is best to wash them often. Take frequent baths to keep your body cool and prevent your nose, throat and eyes from getting irritated. Sounds like a good excuse for the long hot showers too, isn’t it?

If you’ve tried everything and nothing seems to work, you might want to call your doctor. In rare cases, if you are too weak or too sick due to haze, it’s advisable to seek professional help as soon as possible. Everyone’s body react to harsh weather differently so it is best to stay on top of it.