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Don’t Open Windows Recklessly! Doctor’s Warning: Opening Windows During These Two Time Periods Can Pose Health Risks!

Don’t Open Windows Recklessly! Doctor’s Warning: Opening Windows During These Two Time Periods Can Pose Health Risks!

By L-doctorPublished about a year ago 3 min read

With the crisp autumn air, many people enjoy opening windows at home to let fresh air circulate. However, Dr. Li Ming from a Grade-A hospital warns, “While ventilation is beneficial, not all times are suitable. There are especially two periods during which opening windows can actually pose health risks.”

A woman in her 50s, looking pale and clutching her chest, was hurriedly brought to the emergency room by her family.

“Doctor, please help her! She felt dizzy and had severe chest tightness as soon as she got up,” her son said anxiously, visibly sweating.

Dr. Li quickly approached, conducted a preliminary check, and asked for more details: “Has anything changed at home recently? Have you done anything differently?”

The son thought for a moment and said, “Oh, last night was a bit stuffy, so as soon as my mom woke up this morning, she opened the window for some fresh air. But shortly after, she started feeling unwell.”

Dr. Li nodded and explained, “Did you know that early morning is one of the most polluted times of the day? During the night, ground temperatures drop, causing pollutants in the air to settle closer to the ground. Early in the morning, before the sun is fully up and when the wind is usually weak, these pollutants can’t disperse. Opening windows at this time can bring pollutants inside, posing risks, especially to the elderly and those with heart and lung conditions.”

Elsewhere, a young mother brought her 5-year-old daughter to the ER. The girl had a rash on her face and was breathing rapidly.

“Doctor, please look at my daughter. She’s been coughing and now has a rash,” the mother said anxiously.

Dr. Li carefully examined the child and noticed signs of a respiratory infection.

“How have you been ventilating at home recently?” Dr. Li asked.

The mother recalled, “We live near the road, and recently, with the cool weather, I’ve often opened the window in the evening, thinking the air should be fresh.”

Dr. Li sighed and explained, “Many people think the air quality is good in the evening, but actually, evening is another period when it’s not ideal to open windows. Around this time, the warm air from the day begins to cool, causing pollutants to stagnate near the ground due to reduced air circulation. Since you live near a busy road with heavy traffic, the exhaust fumes contain particles and harmful substances that can be particularly harmful to children’s respiratory systems.”

Both the son and the young mother asked in unison, “So doctor, when is the best time to open windows for ventilation?”

Dr. Li smiled and replied, “In fact, ventilation is an excellent way to keep indoor air fresh, but timing is important. Between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sunlight is strong, and there’s generally more airflow, the air quality tends to be better, especially in areas where pollution is not severe. Ventilate for about 30 minutes to an hour to avoid bringing in too many pollutants.”

He added, “If you live in a high-traffic area, try to choose times with better air quality or consider using an air purifier to keep indoor air clean.”

Through these cases, Dr. Li reminds everyone that it’s essential to choose the right times for ventilation and to avoid opening windows during early morning and evening hours to prevent pollutants from entering the home and affecting family health. The duration of ventilation should also be moderate. Healthy living starts with smart ventilation.

This story, based on real-life situations, encourages people to pay attention to the timing of ventilation to prevent health issues caused by incorrect ventilation practices.

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