how volcanic ash impacts on human health

Описание: How Volcanic Ash Impacts on Human Health

Silicosis
A picture of silicosis of the lung[creative commons]
Inhalation of volcanic ash can be very detrimental to human health, due to the harmful aerosols and poisonous gases the ash is made up of. Health effects include respiratory problems, eye problems, and skin irritation.

1. Respiratory symptoms (short-term)

runny nose
sore throat/coughing
wheezing/shortness of breath
possible bronchitis
2. Eye symptoms (short-term)

may become itchy or bloodshot
corneal abrasions or scratches
can result in conjunctivitis
tearing

One long-term effect of volcanic ash is silicosis. Silicosis is a disease resulting in lung impairment and scarring, from exposure to particles of free crystalline silica. Minerals that are associated with silicosis include quartz, cristobalite, and tridymite, all potentially present in volcanic ash.

Volcanic ash can also contaminate the water supply.

Prevention or Mitigation Volcanic ash

A handful of tiny volcanic ash particles[creative commons]
Fortunately, there are many ways to avoid and protect yourself againsts the dangers of volcanic ash. Precautions for the general public as published by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are outlined below:

wear protective clothing, goggles, and dust masks
seal buildings
those with pre-existing respiratory conditions should stay inside or evacuate
it is recommended to stay inside in general
wet any dust and ash particles to prevent movement
when driving, keep a proper distance in between cars due to reduced visibility
avoid exertion, since heavy breathing leads to deeper inhalation of particles into the lungs

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