Mosquito coil side effects: As the weather warms and mosquitoes start buzzing back into our lives, many households in India reach for a familiar defence – a mosquito coil or repellent? It’s cheap, convenient to use, easily available and keeps us bite-free throughout the night. But what if you get told that the very smoke that promises peaceful sleep can actually be harming your health silently?
Mosquito Coil Side Effects-The Silent Toxins In Every Coil
A big majority of mosquito coils are made from pyrethroids that are chemicals capable of paralyzing mosquitoes. They are mixed with binding agents and fillers that tend to burn slowly. The primary aim is to slowly release the insecticide as smoke. While it is effective at driving pests away, it contains a blend of carbon monoxide, particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The indoor use of mosquito coils, especially in poorly ventilated rooms can easily translate into you and your loved ones inhaling these toxins for hours at a time.
In fact, several studies have pointed out that burning a single mosquito coil can produce smoke equivalent to dozens of cigarettes. Over time, this exposure can significantly increase the risk of allergies, respiratory irritation and even long-term lung damage in acute cases.
Common Side Effects You Shouldn’t Ignore
- Headaches and Dizziness: Prolonged inhalation of carbon monoxide and VOCs can minimize the flow of oxygen in the body, resulting in fatigue and headaches the next morning.
- Cough and throat irritation: During coil burning, the fine particles released can inflame the respiratory tract, resulting in persistent coughing or throat dryness.
- Eye irritation: The smoke’s chemical content can result in eye itching, watery eyes or redness, especially when the coil is burnt in enclosed spaces.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may experience nasal congestion or skin rashes from prolonged exposure to mosquito coil smoke.
- Asthma aggravation: People who are already diagnosed with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma may find their symptoms worsening after regular coil use.
- Long-term risks: Some studies have highlighted that carcinogenic effects can be noticed in some individuals due to the release of formaldehyde and other toxic compounds.
Healthier Alternatives
Say goodbye to unhealthy mosquito coils and embrace electric vaporizers, liquid repellents or natural oils like citronella, eucalyptus, or lemongrass. Installing fine window nets, using fans to disrupt mosquito flight paths or ensuring no standing water stays near your home can reduce the presence of mosquitoes.
Note: This Article has been done on the information provided in this viral video/ post. DNP India doesn’t endorse, subscribe or verify the claims.
