As winter grips North India and air quality plummets, air purifiers have become a household essential. However, a leading pulmonologist from Mumbai has issued a crucial caution against their overuse, highlighting an often-ignored side effect that can irritate your respiratory system.
The Hidden Drawback of Constant Purification
Dr. Suleiman Ladhani, Consultant Pulmonologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, explains that while these devices are vital on high-pollution days, running them non-stop can backfire. The core issue is not the purification itself, but the resultant drop in indoor humidity. "While air purifiers don't remove moisture directly, running them continuously on high settings in a closed room reduces indoor humidity," said Dr. Ladhani.
He elaborates that low humidity levels can severely irritate the delicate lining of the nose, throat, and airways. This manifests as dryness, a scratchy feeling, persistent coughing, and even burning eyes. "Clean air matters, but what your lungs really prefer is clean air with healthy moisture levels," contends the expert.
Striking the Right Balance for Healthier Air
This warning does not mean discarding your purifier. Dr. Ladhani emphasizes that these devices remain pertinent during high-AQI days, especially for vulnerable groups like children, seniors, and individuals with asthma or allergies. The solution lies in smarter usage.
The key recommendation is moderation. Instead of keeping the device on turbo mode in a sealed room for hours, switch to auto mode and run it intermittently. To combat dryness, actively add moisture back into the air. Ideally, indoor humidity should be maintained between 40 and 60 percent.
Practical tips to achieve this balance include:
- Pairing your air purifier with a humidifier.
- Placing bowls of water in the room.
- Hanging a damp towel to naturally evaporate moisture.
- Using saline nasal sprays to keep passages healthy.
Recognising the Signs of Overly Dry Air
How do you know if your indoor air is too dry? Dr. Ladhani lists clear indicators: persistent throat irritation, unexplained morning nosebleeds, a dry cough, flaky skin, and a constant scratchy sensation in the upper airways. "Many people blame pollution alone for these symptoms, but very dry indoor air is often an overlooked factor," he points out.
Holistic Strategies for High-Pollution Periods
Beyond managing humidity, Dr. Ladhani advises a comprehensive approach to indoor air quality during winter smog:
- Ventilate your home during brief low-pollution windows, typically in the early morning.
- Seal windows and doors tightly during peak AQI hours in the day.
- Check and replace your purifier's filters regularly, as clogged filters reduce efficiency and strain airflow.
- Understand that while indoor plants add some humidity and improve comfort, they are not a replacement for air purifiers or proper ventilation.
The final takeaway is one of equilibrium. Your home can remain a safe breathing space even when outdoor air quality is dangerous. "The key is balance: combine purification with proper humidity. Clean air is good; clean, comfortably moist air is far better," concludes Dr. Ladhani. This expert insight, shared in December 2025, serves as a timely reminder to use technology wisely for our long-term health.
