The oxygen, sunlight and water contained in the Earth's atmosphere are the main conditions conducive to the continuation of life on the planet. Researchers have long proven that the intensity and spectrum of solar radiation in the vacuum that exists in space remains unchanged.

On Earth, the intensity of its impact, which we call ultraviolet radiation, depends on many factors. These include: the time of year, the geographical location of the area above sea level, the thickness of the ozone layer, cloudiness, as well as the level of concentration of industrial and natural impurities in the air masses.

Ultraviolet rays

Sunlight reaches us in two ranges. The human eye can only distinguish one of them. Ultraviolet rays are found in the spectrum invisible to humans. What are they? These are nothing more than electromagnetic waves. The wavelength of ultraviolet radiation ranges from 7 to 14 nm. Such waves carry enormous flows of thermal energy to our planet, which is why they are often called thermal waves.

Ultraviolet radiation is usually understood as a broad spectrum consisting of electromagnetic waves with a range conventionally divided into far and near rays. The first of them are considered vacuum. They are completely absorbed by the upper layers of the atmosphere. Under Earth conditions, their generation is possible only in vacuum chambers.

As for near ultraviolet rays, they are divided into three subgroups, classified according to ranges into:

Long, ranging from 400 to 315 nanometers;

Medium - from 315 to 280 nanometers;

Short - from 280 to 100 nanometers.

Measuring instruments

How does a person detect ultraviolet radiation? Today, there are many special devices designed not only for professional but also for domestic use. With their help, the intensity and frequency, as well as the magnitude of the received dose of UV rays are measured. The results allow us to evaluate them possible harm for the body.

Ultraviolet sources

The main “supplier” of UV rays on our planet is, of course, the Sun. However, today man has also invented artificial sources of ultraviolet radiation, which are special lamp devices. Among them:

Mercury-quartz lamp high pressure, capable of operating in the general range from 100 to 400 nm;

A luminescent vital lamp that generates waves with a length of 280 to 380 nm, the maximum peak of its emission is between the values of 310 and 320 nm;

Ozone-free and ozone-free germicidal lamps, producing ultraviolet rays, 80% of which are 185 nm in length.

Benefits of UV Rays

Similar to natural ultraviolet radiation coming from the Sun, the light produced special devices, affects the cells of plants and living organisms, changing their chemical structure. Today, researchers know of only a few species of bacteria that can exist without these rays. The rest of the organisms, if they find themselves in conditions where there is no ultraviolet radiation, will certainly die.

UV rays can have a significant impact on ongoing metabolic processes. They increase the synthesis of serotonin and melatonin, which has a positive effect on the functioning of the central nervous and endocrine systems. Under the influence of ultraviolet light, the production of vitamin D is activated. And this main component, which promotes the absorption of calcium and prevents the development of osteoporosis and rickets.

Harm from UV rays

Harsh ultraviolet radiation, which is destructive for living organisms, is not allowed to reach the Earth by the ozone layers located in the stratosphere. However, rays in the middle range reaching the surface of our planet can cause:

Ultraviolet erythema - severe skin burn;

Cataract - clouding of the lens of the eye, which leads to blindness;

Melanoma is skin cancer.

In addition, ultraviolet rays can have a mutagenic effect and cause disruptions in the functioning of the immune system, which causes the occurrence of oncological pathologies.

Skin lesions

Ultraviolet rays sometimes cause:

Acute skin injuries. Their occurrence is facilitated by high doses of solar radiation containing mid-range rays. They act on the skin for a short time, causing erythema and acute photodermatosis.
Delayed skin damage. It occurs after prolonged exposure to long-wave UV rays. These are chronic photodermatitis, solar geroderma, photoaging of the skin, the occurrence of neoplasms, ultraviolet mutagenesis, basal cell and squamous cell skin cancer. Herpes is also on this list.

Both acute and delayed damage sometimes occurs due to excessive exposure to artificial sunbathing, as well as when visiting solariums that use uncertified equipment or where UV lamps are not calibrated.

Skin protection

The human body, with a limited number of any sunbathing, is able to cope with ultraviolet radiation on its own. The fact is that over 20% of such rays can be blocked by healthy epidermis. Today, protection from ultraviolet radiation, in order to avoid the occurrence of malignant formations, will require:

Limiting time spent in the sun, which is especially important during summer afternoons;

Wearing light, but at the same time closed clothing;

Selection of effective sunscreens.

Using the bactericidal properties of ultraviolet light

UV rays can kill fungus, as well as other microbes that are found on objects, wall surfaces, floors, ceilings and in the air. These bactericidal properties of ultraviolet radiation are widely used in medicine, and they are used accordingly. Special lamps that produce UV rays ensure the sterility of surgical and manipulation rooms. However, ultraviolet bactericidal radiation is used by doctors not only to combat various nosocomial infections, but also as one of the methods for eliminating many diseases.

Phototherapy

The use of ultraviolet radiation in medicine is one of the methods of getting rid of various diseases. During this treatment, a dosed effect of UV rays is applied to the patient’s body. At the same time, the use of ultraviolet radiation in medicine for these purposes becomes possible thanks to the use of special phototherapy lamps.

A similar procedure is carried out to eliminate diseases of the skin, joints, respiratory organs, peripheral nervous system, and female genital organs. Ultraviolet light is prescribed to speed up the healing process of wounds and to prevent rickets.

The use of ultraviolet radiation is especially effective in the treatment of psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, some types of dermatitis, prurigo, porphyria, and pruritis. It is worth noting that this procedure does not require anesthesia and does not cause any discomfort in the patient.

The use of a lamp that produces ultraviolet light allows one to obtain good results in the treatment of patients who have undergone severe purulent operations. In this case, patients are also helped by the bactericidal property of these waves.

The use of UV rays in cosmetology

Infrared waves are also actively used in the field of maintaining human beauty and health. Thus, the use of ultraviolet bactericidal radiation is necessary to ensure the sterility of various rooms and devices. For example, this could be the prevention of infection of manicure instruments.

The use of ultraviolet radiation in cosmetology is, of course, a solarium. In it, with the help of special lamps, clients can get a tan. It perfectly protects the skin from possible subsequent sunburns. This is why cosmetologists recommend undergoing several sessions in a solarium before traveling to hot countries or the sea.

Special UV lamps are also necessary in cosmetology. Thanks to them, rapid polymerization of the special gel used for manicure occurs.

Determination of electronic structures of objects

Ultraviolet radiation also finds its use in physical research. With its help, reflection, absorption and emission spectra in the UV region are determined. This makes it possible to clarify the electronic structure of ions, atoms, molecules and solids.

The UV spectra of stars, the Sun and other planets carry information about the physical processes that occur in the hot regions of the space objects under study.

Water purification

Where else are UV rays used? Ultraviolet bactericidal radiation is used for disinfection drinking water. And if chlorine was previously used for this purpose, today its negative effect on the body has been studied quite well. So, the vapors of this substance can cause poisoning. The entry of chlorine into the body provokes the occurrence of cancer. That is why ultraviolet lamps are increasingly being used to disinfect water in private homes.

UV rays are also used in swimming pools. Ultraviolet emitters are used in the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industries to eliminate bacteria. These areas also need clean water.

Air disinfection

Where else do people use UV rays? The use of ultraviolet radiation for air disinfection has also become increasingly common in recent years. Recirculators and emitters are installed in crowded places, such as supermarkets, airports and train stations. The use of ultraviolet radiation, which affects microorganisms, allows disinfection of their habitat to the highest degree, up to 99.9%.

Household use

Quartz lamps that create UV rays have been disinfecting and purifying the air in clinics and hospitals for many years. However, recently, ultraviolet radiation is increasingly being used in everyday life. It is highly effective in eliminating organic contaminants such as mildew, viruses, yeast and bacteria. These microorganisms spread especially quickly in those rooms where people, for various reasons, tightly close windows and doors for a long time.

Usage bactericidal irradiator V living conditions It becomes advisable with a small living area and a large family with small children and pets. A UV lamp will allow you to periodically disinfect rooms, minimizing the risk of the occurrence and further transmission of diseases.

Similar devices are also used by tuberculosis patients. After all, such patients do not always undergo treatment in a hospital. While at home, they need to disinfect their home, including using ultraviolet radiation.

Application in forensics

Scientists have developed a technology that allows them to detect minimal doses of explosives. For this purpose, a device is used that produces ultraviolet radiation. Such a device is capable of detecting the presence of dangerous elements in the air and water, on fabric, as well as on the skin of a crime suspect.

Ultraviolet and infrared radiation is also used for macro photography of objects with invisible and barely visible traces of a crime. This allows forensic scientists to study documents and traces of a shot, texts that have undergone changes as a result of being covered in blood, ink, etc.

Other uses of UV rays

Ultraviolet radiation is used:

In show business to create lighting effects and lighting;

In currency detectors;

In printing;

In livestock and agriculture;

For catching insects;

In restoration;

For chromatographic analysis.

In spring, nature awakens, and people say goodbye to winter depression. And the main reason for this is the warmer and longer days that the Sun gives to those around us - the main natural source of ultraviolet radiation on Earth. Namely, ultraviolet is one of the main sources of complete and healthy life person. However, not all people manage to spend enough time outside. Therefore, an ultraviolet lamp for the home today is becoming great solution for many.

The essence of home ultraviolet lamps.

An ultraviolet lamp for the home is a type of lighting lamp used in everyday life, the light source of which is rays invisible to the human eye, located on the border of the violet spectrum and x-ray radiation.
This radiation is the most beneficial for health. Examples household appliances This type of lamps can be used: fluorescent, tungsten-halogen, LED ultraviolet lamps and many others.

Benefits of home ultraviolet lamps.

Ultraviolet radiation lamps promote the production of vitamin D. This vitamin is actively involved in the synthesis and absorption of calcium by the body, which is involved in the construction and strengthening of bones, teeth, hair and nails. With enough vitamin D, the body is able to obtain calcium from the food it eats. However, if there is a deficiency of the vitamin in question, then calcium ceases to be absorbed, and the body is immediately replenished by consuming this useful microelement directly from its own bone tissue. As a result of this, the skeleton becomes fragile, teeth may begin to crumble, nails break, and so on.

In the future, a person acquires such a difficult-to-treat disease as osteoporosis. It is important to note that the synthesis of vitamin D when exposed to ultraviolet radiation is independently regulated by the body, that is, the possibility of hypervitaminization and side effects is completely absent. The benefit of the vitamin in question lies not only in the prevention and treatment of rickets and other diseases associated with a lack of calcium in the body, but also in the ability to prevent the growth of cancer cells. All types of lamps under consideration, including a fluorescent ultraviolet lamp, have this property.

Additionally, the following useful properties of such lamps can be noted:

General immune-strengthening effect

It has long been proven that UV radiation has a beneficial effect on all systems of the human and animal body, contributing to the development of a powerful protective system against viral and infectious diseases, including such as seasonal colds.

Possibility of disinfection and disinfection of the premises

All UV lamps have this effect, helping to destroy pathogenic bacteria in the house or apartment and other harmful microorganisms.

Development of resistance of human skin to sunburn

Benefits for Pets

First of all, we are talking about exotic pets from warm countries, where the sun shines brightly all year round. In temperate zone conditions, these animals experience stress and are provoked to develop a number of diseases, often with fatal consequences. Additional artificial UV radiation completely helps solve this problem.

Are ultraviolet lamps harmful?

To the question: is the ultraviolet lamp used in everyday life harmful? We can say unequivocally - no. Indeed, UV radiation is often harmful to human health and has contraindications for many diseases. But the harm is directly related to the amount of solar radiation consumed. And it is extremely dangerous to be uncontrolled under the scorching Sun. With lamps this is completely excluded. The fact is that the amount of radiation produced by a home ultraviolet lamp is minimal (significantly lower than solar radiation), and, therefore, completely safe for health.

Their positive effect is noticeable, as a rule, only after a few months. In this regard, special ultraviolet lamps are used for therapy, which allow achieving a therapeutic result after two to three days of use. Such procedures can only be carried out as directed and under the guidance of a qualified specialist.

In conclusion, we need to say how to choose ultraviolet lamps. For general purposes and prevention, emphasis should be placed on lamps with radiation in the range of 280 - 410 nm. Unless, of course, we are talking about specialized devices. For example, such as an ultraviolet lamp for water disinfection. There, the radiation range may differ from the average.

Source:

The use of ultraviolet radiation in medicine, everyday life, and educational institutions includes the disinfection of premises without the use of chemical compounds. A quartz lamp is an effective preventive anti-epidemic agent that ensures the fight against pathogenic microorganisms in the air, water and on various surfaces. This device reduces the spread of infections and viruses in the room being treated.

Quartz lamps are used in:

hospital wards;
operating rooms;
kindergartens and schools;
everyday life

The use of ultraviolet irradiation simultaneously with ozonation in retail premises and food warehouses makes it possible to preserve the freshness of food products, prevent the processes of rotting and the development of harmful microflora.

Indoor quartzingThe principle of operation of the lamp

A quartz lamp is an electric gas-discharge mercury device with a bulb consisting of quartz glass. When heated, the lamp begins to emit ultraviolet light. This radiation actively fights harmful bacteria and microbes.

However, ultraviolet rays do not penetrate deep into furniture or through wall plaster; they kill germs only on the surface. To combat different types of microorganisms, different intensity and duration of operation of disinfection devices is required.

First of all, rods and cocci die under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, and the most resistant during irradiation are fungi, spore bacteria and protozoa. Carrying out quartz treatment gives a positive result in the fight against the influenza virus. After 20 minutes from the start of operation of the device, the room becomes almost sterile.

Expert opinion

Alexey Bartosh

Specialist in repair and maintenance of electrical equipment and industrial electronics.

Ask a question to an expert

Attention! During operation of the quartz lamp, oxygen is ionized, due to which it turns into ozone. In high concentrations, this gas is poisonous to all living organisms. Therefore, while the quartz generator is working, the room should be empty. The person and pets must leave the room. If there are plants, it is better to take them out too.

Ozone, like ultraviolet light, fights harmful bacteria. But in order not to harm a person, after quartz treatment it is necessary to ventilate the room.

Ventilation after quartzing is a must. Features of quartzing

To use quartzizer for disinfecting purposes, in accordance with regulatory sanitary requirements, the bactericidal efficiency indicator is determined. This parameter evaluates the degree to which bacterial contamination of the air is reduced under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. The indicator is expressed as a percentage, as the ratio of the number of dead microorganisms to their original number. For premises for various purposes with mandatory air disinfection, their own values for the required degree of bactericidal effect have been established.

Since direct exposure to ultraviolet radiation on human skin and eyes is dangerous, the following quartz treatment rules are required:

First of all, make sure that there are no people, plants or other living creatures in the room before disinfecting.
Depending on the size of the room and the number of operating quartz devices, the required irradiation time and operating mode are set.
During quartzing, a sign with the inscription “Do not enter” turns on at the entrance to the room. After the session is completed, the light display turns off.

It is also possible to quartz rooms in the presence of a person if closed ultraviolet irradiators - recirculators - are used. In this case, the air is disinfected inside the device, entering through the ventilation passage. After disinfection, the air is sent back into the room.

For disinfection medical instruments, cutlery, dishes, children's toys and other items, special cabinets are used. There are lattice shelves installed inside. This design allows the objects being processed to be irradiated with ultraviolet light from all sides.

Before using quartzizer at home, consult your family doctor. There are a number of diseases for which quartz air disinfection is prohibited.

Version of household quartz lamp with contents Precautions

When using a quartz lamp, the following precautions are observed:

Use of safety glasses. They will protect your eyes from burns.
Do not look at the working lamp or touch the heating surfaces of the device.
You cannot sit next to a working light bulb.
It is prohibited to sunbathe under germicidal ultraviolet lamps.
Radiation is not allowed to reach open areas skin - this leads to burns and dangerous skin diseases, including cancer.
Do not disinfect a room if there is a sick person in the house with high temperature bodies.
Observe fire safety when using devices.
If after quartzing you notice a specific smell of ozone, be sure to ventilate the room.

At home, use quartz irradiators with extreme caution. Ultraviolet radiation can destroy not only harmful microbes, but also cells of the human body. Do not forget to replace lamps promptly.

In case of ineffective air disinfection with a lamp low quality, and if it breaks due to mercury inside or breaks, the risk of spreading harmful bacteria increases. This situation is unacceptable. Therefore, when determining the serviceability of the device, the user should be wary of the following aspects:

The device does not turn on.
The timer is malfunctioning - the lamp does not turn off on time.
The device is flashing.
The ends of the lamp darkened.
You can feel it near the device bad smell as if something was burning.
The device makes noise during operation.

Compact device for home use

What to do with a faulty device?

If you suspect that the device is malfunctioning, immediately disconnect it from the power supply. Do not try to repair the lamp yourself and do not open the housing of the device. If the device is under warranty, take it to a service center. If warranty period expired, find a repair specialist quartz lamps.

If the lamp accidentally breaks, then there will be not only vapors in the room, but also small droplets of mercury. If this happens, you will need to demercurize the room.

Quartz lamp: harm and benefit

The benefits of an ultraviolet lamp for disinfecting premises are undeniable. Are there any negative aspects to this device?

In this context, the following nuances can be mentioned. Potential harm occurs when:

the lamp is not used for its intended purpose;
instructions and precautions are not followed;
there are contraindications for health reasons among family members;
the lamp is incorrectly selected.

Manufacturers offer two types of devices:

Open.
Closed.

When using the first option, the room is freed from the presence of all living creatures, including flowers. These devices are too aggressive for domestic use. They are more often used in laboratories, clinics, and offices.

Violation of safety rules is fraught with dangerous consequences for human health:

Eye burn.
Skin burn.
Melanoma - cancer.

Quartz lamp burn

Irradiators are dangerous homemade production. After all, it is unknown how correctly a person followed the manufacturing technology, what the impact of such a device is, and whether its use will harm people. When using such devices, you must not be in the room where disinfection is taking place. After turning off the device, the room is ventilated for at least half an hour.

Important! It should be remembered that excessive disinfection of living spaces is harmful to the human body. Even a child’s body must independently form its own immunity and cope with certain bacteria. A child who grew up in sterile conditions begins to get sick often when entering kindergarten or school.

But if mold grows in the house, one of the household members becomes ill with an infectious pathology, and cold season begins outside the window, then quartz treatment will be very useful.

There are two types of quartz lamps:

Ozone (open).
Ozone-free (closed).

Devices of the first type are used only in the complete absence of living beings in the room. They are widely used in hospitals, catering establishments, laboratories, educational institutions, offices. In the fight against pathogenic flora, viruses and infections, they are more effective than closed devices, but also more aggressive.

Combination devices that combine the advantages of open and closed devices deserve special attention. With their help, direct irradiation of space is carried out (when an open lamp is turned on) and diffused (when a shielded device is operating). Lamps for direct and reflected irradiation have separate switches and can operate independently of each other.

What should you consider when choosing?

When choosing a quartz irradiator, consider the lamp power and room size:

15 W lamps are suitable for rooms with an area of 15–35 square meters.
Devices from 36 W are intended for rooms from 40 square meters.

If you are going to carry out disinfection inside closed spaces: in a refrigerator, closet, medicine drawer, then pay attention to the size of the lamp. A compact model is best suited for this. Bulky devices are inconvenient to carry and use in such conditions.

The design and installation method of the lamp are also taken into account:

Wall-mounted.
Ceiling.
Mobile or portable.
Wall-ceiling.

When purchasing a lamp, give preference to trusted manufacturers. Do not buy devices in the market from street vendors who do not even provide a warranty on their products.

To summarize, it should be noted that bactericidal devices are used to disinfect surfaces and indoor air. They have become an effective means for disinfecting drinking water and sterilizing objects and instruments. A properly selected lamp can neutralize viruses, infectious agents, fungi, spores and mold, preventing their proliferation. To ensure that the operation of such a device does not harm human health, it is important to follow the instructions and precautions.

The sun gives life to our planet and provides a sea of ultraviolet radiation for the beauty and health of humanity. It is noted that people living in countries where there are more natural light, determined by location and climate, are happier compared to, for example, northern countries, where there can be bad weather and cloudiness for many months of the year.

More recently, by historical standards, people began to spend a huge amount of time indoors, which resulted in a lack of solar heat and a lack of ultraviolet rays. City dwellers rarely go to fresh air, but progress does not stand still and it responds to emerging difficulties with simple technical solutions.

An ultraviolet lamp is a device that emits radiation in a range invisible to the eye, in the range between X-ray and purple spectrum

Ultraviolet lamp: benefits and harms

Radiation from a lamp or exposure to the sun is a necessary condition health of both humans and animals and plants, few creatures inhabiting our planet can do without this component completely.

UV lamp, replacing natural light, promotes the production of vitamin D, the deficiency of which is known to lead to diseases such as rickets. However, vitamin D is known for another important property - it promotes the absorption of calcium by the body, and calcium, in turn, is one of the most basic elements for the functioning and growth of many human tissues and is even a protector against cancer.

Ultraviolet radiation helps get rid of pathogenic organisms that surround us all in abundance, ranging from common cold pathogens to more serious “comrades”, like Koch’s bacillus. Koch's bacillus is the causative agent of tuberculosis, the breeding ground for which are places of detention, where not only ventilation is poorly organized, but where even a ray of light does not penetrate.

The beneficial effects of UV can be observed on the skin - a bactericidal and drying effect, which helps to cope with many skin problems faster and more effectively. A typical example are acne, fungi and dermatitis.

As already mentioned, ultraviolet rays lift your spirits, prevent depression, and charge you with optimism.

Don't expect immediate results. The beneficial effect is cumulative and weeks and months may pass before the first positive changes are noticeable to the eye.

Harm from ultraviolet lamps

Everything is good in moderation. If you do not abuse the use of such a lamp and follow the instructions, then there will be no problems. If the device is used ineptly, quite serious consequences can occur: burns (eyes and skin), exacerbation of heart disease. You can provoke the growth of epidermal cancer cells - skin cancer. Note that long sunbathing, also have data side effects Therefore, the lamp itself is not harmful; harm appears only in conjunction with the human factor.

How to use an ultraviolet lamp?

Mainly, carefully read the instructions and strictly follow its recommendations, especially carefully observing the parameters for safe use.

How to choose an ultraviolet lamp?

If the question is asked which lamp to buy, ultraviolet or quartz (as a type: home solarium), then it should be taken into account that the latter can only be used after a doctor’s permission. The choice should be based on the desired beneficial effect, for example, for a preventive function, you should find a device emitting 280 - 410 nm.

The rest of the choice belongs quality indicators, the capabilities of the purchaser and the trust of the manufacturer's brand.

Home » Benefits and harm » Quartz lamp harm and benefit

The benefits and harms of home quartzing

Quartzization is a process of treating air with ultraviolet rays to destroy bacteria, viruses and microbes. Bactericidal treatment of the room and enrichment of the air with ozone made the process relevant in the cold season. Artificial quartz does not replace sunlight, but it makes it possible to strengthen the body, increase immunity, ensure the production of vitamin D with biologically active substances, and compensate for sunlight.

The benefits of quartzing

Quartz lamps are used for general and local irradiation. For a long time they were used for intracavity treatment and disinfection of domestic premises. It is necessary to disinfect rooms not only in hospitals and laboratories, but also at home. Home quartzing is used to treat children's rooms.

Before using quartz treatment at home, find out what the benefits and harms of the procedure are. Positive changes from quartz lamps are provided by an antibacterial effect. The benefits of quartzing are as follows:

Prevention of colds and flu. If there is an infected person, quartzing will reduce the risk of further infection of family members.
The condition of chronic bronchitis, adenoids and persistent runny nose is alleviated because the lamp kills bacteria.
Treatment of otitis media or ear inflammation. Is a quick and easy way.
Treatment of skin diseases, from psoriasis, eczema, rashes to acne.
Toothache and stomatitis can be effectively treated with home quartz treatment.
Relief of pain in joints and osteochondrosis during inflammatory processes.
Prevention of rickets. The lamp is useful for families with children.
Treatment of inflammatory processes.

When recovering from major operations, quartz treatment is used for prevention.

The fact that quartzing a room has positive effects, there is nothing surprising. This is due to the qualities of ultraviolet rays. By periodically turning on a quartz lamp, the air becomes sterile because there are no harmful microorganisms in it.

Harm of quartz treatment

Before purchasing and using a lamp, find out what harm quartz treatment brings to humans.

Quartz treatment can be harmful due to improper use of the device. Modern options can be turned on even if there are residents in the room. Read the instructions carefully before using the device.

The lamp will cause harm if family members suffer:

Individual intolerance. Use the lamp carefully.
Tumors. Using a quartz lamp can lead to accelerated tumor formation.
High blood pressure. If you suffer from vascular problems, then do not use quartz treatment at home - the harm will be greater than the benefit.

For maximum safety of the procedure, consult your doctor. After concluding that there are no contraindications for using home quartz, feel free to start using the device. There are many benefits from the procedure, but potential harm may not appear.

How to choose lamps

When choosing a lamp, remember the variety of designs and options produced by different factories. Consider several options, compare, and then make a choice.

There are two types of quartz lamps - open and closed. The use of the first type is possible only in the absence of living organisms in the room, including flowers. Such lamps for quartzing rooms are used in hospitals, offices and laboratories.

In apartment conditions, it is preferable to use universal closed quartz lamps.

Device characteristics:

versatility;
closed type;
compact size.

The device looks like a structure with tubes. The main purpose is disinfection of rooms or intracavitary irradiation.

When you purchase a lamp for home quartzing, check each tube for integrity and completeness.

How is quartzing carried out?

Use safety glasses when quartzing to protect your eyes from exposure to the rays. Touching the surface of the lamp is prohibited. In case of accidental touching, treat the area with alcohol solutions.

The instructions for the lamp indicate the exact time for home quartzing. The first times should be carried out at minimal parameters to check individual tolerance to ultraviolet radiation.

When carrying out quartz treatment at home, remember that:

You cannot disinfect a living space if there is a patient with elevated temperature bodies;
for dry skin, consultation with a specialist before the procedure is required;
It is prohibited to use quartz lamps as a means of tanning;
Do not leave pets and plants in the room while quartzing;
It is necessary to observe fire safety in the house when using a quartz lamp.

If you correctly follow the operating rules and doctor's instructions, you will fully experience the beneficial effect of a quartz lamp on the air in your apartment and improve your well-being.

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Quartz lamps for the home - benefit or harm

Using quartz lamps

It is no secret that the air we breathe in some way determines the state of our body. If you and I inhale dust, hundreds of bacteria, we shouldn’t be surprised that we feel bad. But, if you can get rid of dust using wet cleaning and avoiding carpets (find out where dust comes from in the house), and objects that collect this dust, then you can clear the air of bacteria, viruses and microbes using a quartz lamp for the home .

About the benefits and harms of quartzing, how to choose a quartz lamp for your home and how to properly quartz a room - we will tell you about all this right now...

What is a quartz lamp used for?

A quartz lamp is a special lamp that is used to carry out the quartzization process, as a result of which the air is treated with ultraviolet rays and viruses, bacteria and microbes are destroyed. In addition, during such bactericidal treatment of air, it is enriched with ozone, which is very useful for the cold season. However, you should not think that thanks to quartz lamps you will be able to replace sunlight. This won't happen. But, here’s to strengthening your body, increasing its defenses, as well as ensuring the production of vitamin D and biologically active substances, and at least somehow compensating for the deficiency sunlight– a quartz lamp will cope with these tasks “excellently”.

At the same time, you can use a quartz lamp both to provide targeted irradiation and for general irradiation.

Surely, those who have been in the hospital at least once will remember that the daily routine indicated the time during which the wards were quartzed.

But it is necessary to disinfect the air not only in the hospital, but also in our homes, especially in children's rooms.

The benefits of quartzing

Benefits of using quartz lamps

Considering that medical institutions actively use quartz lamps to quartz wards and rooms with increased sterility, we can assume that this procedure is not only necessary, but also useful. This is true. Today experts compiled whole list useful aspects from quartzing, and World Without Harm invites you to familiarize yourself with it.

So, quartzing will be useful for:

Prophylaxis against colds viral diseases. If one of the family members is already sick, then regular quartzing will reduce the risk of infection to other family members.
Relief from diseases such as chronic bronchitis, adenoids, chronic runny nose, due to the fact that quartz lamps will kill bacteria that contribute to the development of the disease.
Treatment of ear diseases, in particular otitis media.
Treatment of stomatitis and toothache.
For inflammatory processes in osteochondrosis, as well as to relieve pain in the joints.
For the prevention of rickets in the case of newborn children.
Treatment of inflammatory diseases.
During the period of rehabilitation and recovery after serious illnesses.

Considering the quality of ultraviolet rays and the spectrum of their influence, periodically turning on quartz lamps and quartzing the room with their help will help clean the air and make it sterile, and relieve you of the presence of harmful microorganisms in it that cause dangerous diseases.

Harm from quartz lamps

Follow safety precautions when quartzing

However, in the wrong hands, quartz lamps, and even quartzing itself, as a preventive procedure, can cause more harm than good. First of all, this applies to situations when the device - a quartz lamp - is used for other purposes, and without following the recommendations in the instructions. In particular, if it says that it is not worth quartzing a room when there are people in it, it would not be appropriate to ignore this recommendation.

Also, some people may experience individual intolerance to quartz treatment. So, even if the instructions indicate that you can be in the room while it is being quartzed, but you feel unwell, you should not tempt fate; it is better to leave the room while it is being quartzed.

The presence of neoplasms, both malignant and benign, in the case of irradiation with a quartz lamp can lead to intensive growth of tumors. Therefore, if you have been diagnosed with a tumor or cyst, you are strictly prohibited from being in the room when it is quartzed.

People suffering from high blood pressure You should also be extremely careful when using quartz lamps. The same can be said about patients with cardiovascular diseases.

Only after making sure that you have no direct contraindications to the use of quartz lamps, having studied the instructions for them, and having consulted about this with your doctor, can you begin the quartz treatment procedure without worrying that it may be harmful to you .

How to choose a quartz lamp for your home

If you have no contraindications for using quartz lamps, and you are interested in ensuring that you and your loved ones get sick less often, you should consider purchasing your own quartz lamp for your home.

Types of quartz lamps

Today there are enough options, they differ in their appearance, but in general they can be divided into 2 main types. Quartz lamps can be open or closed.

Open quartz lamps can only be used when there are no living organisms, pets or indoor plants. As a rule, it would be appropriate to install such quartz lamps in hospital wards, offices, or laboratories, where they can be turned on for a period while all staff are absent.

But for home use, closed-type quartz lamps are better suited. They can be used even if you don't plan to leave the room. You will not get any harm from quartzing with them.

What else to look for when choosing a quartz lamp for your home

Also, pay attention to the versatility of such quartz lamps, their size, and what they are intended for. Having decided on a specific model, carefully study its characteristics, read the instructions, and only after making sure that all the lamp parts are in place and the quartz lamp is fully equipped with them, make the purchase.

How to properly quartz a room

In order for the use of quartz lamps to benefit you, follow the recommendations from the instructions for such lamps, and also do not forget that even if you have closed-type lamps, in order to protect your eyes from exposure to quartz rays, you will need special glasses.
Avoid careless touching the surface of a heated lamp, as this can cause a severe burn; if you were not careful, carefully treat the area of contact with the lamp.
In order to make sure that you do not suffer from individual intolerance to quartzing, the first quartzing sessions should be at minimal parameters and not long in time so that you can establish that you can tolerate ultraviolet radiation normally. In the future, adhere to the recommended quartzing times.
If there is a person with a high temperature in the room, then it is not worth quartzing the room while the patient is in it.
The ultraviolet rays of a quartz lamp tend to dry out the skin, and the air in the room after their use is dry. Take care of the condition of your skin by specially nourishing and moisturizing it, as well as additional air humidification, if necessary.
And, now, pay attention, a quartz lamp is not a mini solarium; with its help, you should not try to get an even chocolate tan that you will keep for a long time. Read more about the dangers of solariums and how to maintain a tan.
Do not leave small children, animals or plants alone with operating quartz lamps.
When operating a quartz lamp, do not forget to comply with fire safety regulations.

Video about quartz lamps for the home

Today we talked about quartz lamps for the home, their benefits and harms, how to choose such lamps correctly, and how to quartz a room with their help.

We will be interested to know your opinion about the benefits and harms of quartz lamps. Do you use them to disinfect rooms and air in your home?

Shevtsova Olga, World without Harm

Most people easily draw a parallel between solar radiation and skin cancer.

But rarely does anyone realize the connection between these same rays and serious eye diseases.

Which rays are most dangerous, when and why? Let's figure it out.

UV radiation is invisible to the human eye. It consists of rays of different lengths.

UV-A category rays reach a length of 315-400 nm. They pass almost unhindered through the atmosphere and penetrate the tissues most deeply.
UV-B rays are 280-315 nm in length and mostly do not pass through the ozone layer. But it is the portion of high-energy light that does reach the Earth's surface that causes the most harm.
UV-C category rays are 280-200 nm in length, they are blocked by the ozone layer and practically do not reach the Earth's surface.

The source of UV rays is the Sun. Most people think, but it is only harmful to be in direct sunlight. But in fact, reflected rays are no less dangerous.

For example, up to 85% of rays are reflected from snow cover; from concrete and dry sand approximately 25%; from grass – 3%. Also, the rays are perfectly reflected from the surface of the water. Thus, even if we are in the shade, we are exposed to solar radiation.

By the way, artificial light sources (energy-saving lamps, fluorescent lamps, solarium lamps, bactericidal lamps, etc.) often also emit ultraviolet radiation.

So, we receive our dose of radiation not only while on the street, but even within the walls of our home or office.

Although ultraviolet rays rarely reach the retina of an adult eye, they do damage the cornea and lens. You've probably noticed how, as a person gets older, the lens of the eye begins to yellow, which can develop into cataracts.

Children spend much more time outdoors than adults. This means they are even more susceptible to ultraviolet radiation.

A child's not fully formed eye is more exposed to the harmful effects of UV radiation.

Thus, during the first year of life, 90% of UV-A and 50% of UV-B rays reach the retina.

At the age of 10-13 years, the same thing happens with 65% and 25% of rays, respectively.

How younger child, the more his eyes are exposed to the harmful effects of solar radiation.

By the age of 18, a person has already received 25% of the radiation that usually occurs during a lifetime.

Let's figure out how much and what kind of rays are able to penetrate the tissues of the eye.

The tear film absorbs rays whose length is below 290 nm.
A healthy cornea prevents the passage of rays up to 300 nm in length.
The lens of an adult's eye blocks almost all UV rays up to 390 nm in length. The vitreous body “catches” rays whose length is up to 290 nm.
And only about 5% of UV rays reach the surface of the retina of an adult.

A fully formed eye has a protective mechanism that virtually prevents ultraviolet radiation from damaging the retina. Although the risk of damage to the cornea and lens of the eye remains high throughout life.

Therefore, it is important to protect your eyes!

Sunglasses or frames with clear lenses medium and high indices 100% protect eyes from direct sunlight. But the rays reflected from the back surface of the lenses are still able to penetrate the tissues of the eye. Therefore, the most complete eye protection is achieved by applying special coatings also to the inner surface of the lens.

Caps, hats and wide glasses - additional funds protection.

What complications can UV-A and/or UV/B rays cause:

Photokeratitis: fear of light, pain, blurred vision.
Solar retinopathy. Occurs when observing a solar eclipse, and sometimes when looking directly at the sun without protective glasses.
Corneal and conjunctival cancer
Melanoma of the eye
Cataracts and other equally dangerous diseases.

The beneficial effect of solar radiation on the synthesis of vitamin D is known. But there are no facts proving its beneficial effect on human eyes. Unlike the skin, which is damaged primarily by direct sunlight, the eye experiences negative effects of ultraviolet radiation almost everywhere (due to reflections) and virtually all year round.

It is important to protect your eyes not only from natural solar radiation, but also from that caused by artificial light sources.

Remember that the effect of UV radiation on the eyes is cumulative.

Olga Shadyarova

The influence of sun light on a person is difficult to overestimate - under its influence, the most important physiological and biochemical processes are launched in the body. The solar spectrum is divided into infrared and visible parts, as well as the most biologically active ultraviolet part, which has a great influence on all living organisms on our planet. Ultraviolet radiation is a short-wave part of the solar spectrum that is not perceived by the human eye, has an electromagnetic nature and photochemical activity.

Due to its properties, ultraviolet light is successfully used in various areas of human life. UV radiation is widely used in medicine because it can change the chemical structure of cells and tissues, having different effects on humans.

Ultraviolet wavelength range

The main source of UV radiation is the sun. The share of ultraviolet radiation in the total flux of sunlight is not constant. It depends on:

time of day;
time of year;
solar activity;
geographical latitude;
state of the atmosphere.

Despite the fact that the celestial body is far from us and its activity is not always the same, a sufficient amount of ultraviolet radiation reaches the Earth's surface. But this is only its small long-wavelength part. Short waves are absorbed by the atmosphere at a distance of about 50 km from the surface of our planet.

The ultraviolet range of the spectrum, which reaches the earth's surface, is conventionally divided by wavelength into:

far (400 – 315 nm) – UV – A rays;
medium (315 – 280 nm) – UV – B rays;
near (280 – 100 nm) – UV – C rays.

The effect of each UV range on human body varies: the shorter the wavelength, the deeper it penetrates through the skin. This law determines the positive or negative effects of ultraviolet radiation on the human body.

Near-range UV radiation has the most adverse effect on health and carries the threat of serious diseases.

UV-C rays must be scattered into ozone layer, but due to poor ecology they reach the surface of the earth. Ultraviolet rays of the A and B ranges are less dangerous; with strict dosage, far- and mid-range radiation has a beneficial effect on the human body.

Artificial sources of ultraviolet radiation

The most significant sources of UV waves affecting the human body are:

bactericidal lamps - sources of UV - C waves, used to disinfect water, air or other objects external environment;
industrial welding arc – sources of all waves in the range of the solar spectrum;
erythematous fluorescent lamps– sources of UV waves in the A and B ranges, used for therapeutic purposes and in solariums;
industrial lamps are powerful sources of ultraviolet waves used in manufacturing processes to cure paints, inks, or cure polymers.

The characteristics of any UV lamp are its radiation power, wavelength range, type of glass, and service life. These parameters determine how useful or harmful the lamp will be to humans.

Before irradiation with ultraviolet waves from artificial sources for the treatment or prevention of diseases, you should consult with a specialist to select the necessary and sufficient erythema dose, which is individual for each person, taking into account his skin type, age, and existing diseases.

It should be understood that ultraviolet is electromagnetic radiation, which not only has a positive effect on the human body.

A germicidal ultraviolet lamp used for tanning will cause significant harm rather than benefit to the body. Only a professional who is well versed in all the nuances of such devices should use artificial sources of UV radiation.

Positive effects of UV radiation on the human body

Ultraviolet radiation is widely used in the field of modern medicine. And this is not surprising, because UV rays produce analgesic, sedative, antirachitic and antispastic effects. Under their influence occurs:

formation of vitamin D, necessary for the absorption of calcium, development and strengthening of bone tissue;
decreased excitability of nerve endings;
increased metabolism, as it causes activation of enzymes;
dilation of blood vessels and improvement of blood circulation;
stimulating the production of endorphins - “hormones of happiness”;
increasing the speed of regenerative processes.

The beneficial effect of ultraviolet waves on the human body is also expressed in a change in its immunobiological reactivity - the body’s ability to express protective functions against pathogens of various diseases. Strictly dosed ultraviolet irradiation stimulates the production of antibodies, thereby increasing the human body's resistance to infections.

Exposure of the skin to UV rays causes a reaction called erythema (redness). Vasodilation occurs, expressed by hyperemia and swelling. The breakdown products formed in the skin (histamine and vitamin D) enter the blood, which causes general changes in the body when irradiated with UV waves.

The degree of development of erythema depends on:

ultraviolet dose values;
range of ultraviolet rays;
individual sensitivity.

With excessive UV irradiation, the affected area of the skin is very painful and swollen, a burn occurs with the appearance of a blister and further convergence of the epithelium.

But skin burns are far from the most serious consequences of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation on humans. Unreasonable use of UV rays causes pathological changes in the body.

Negative effects of UV radiation on humans

Despite its important role in medicine, The harm of ultraviolet radiation on health outweighs the benefits. Most people are not able to accurately control the therapeutic dose of ultraviolet radiation and resort to protection methods in a timely manner, so an overdose often occurs, which causes the following phenomena:

headaches appear;
body temperature rises;
fatigue, apathy;
memory impairment;
rapid heartbeat;
decreased appetite and nausea.

Excessive tanning affects the skin, eyes and immune (defense) system. Perceptible and visible consequences of excessive UV irradiation (burns of the skin and mucous membranes of the eyes, dermatitis and allergic reactions) pass within a few days. Ultraviolet radiation accumulates over a long period of time and causes very serious diseases.

The effect of ultraviolet radiation on the skin

A beautiful, even tan is the dream of every person, especially the fairer sex. But it should be understood that skin cells darken under the influence of the coloring pigment released in them - melanin in order to protect against further ultraviolet irradiation. That's why tan is defensive reaction of our skin to damage to its cells by ultraviolet rays. But it does not protect the skin from the more serious effects of UV radiation:

Photosensitivity is increased susceptibility to ultraviolet radiation. Even a small dose of it causes severe burning, itching and sunburn of the skin. This is often associated with the use of medications or the consumption of cosmetics or certain foods.
Photoaging. UV rays of spectrum A penetrate into the deep layers of the skin, damaging the structure of connective tissue, which leads to the destruction of collagen, loss of elasticity, and early wrinkles.
Melanoma - skin cancer. The disease develops after frequent and prolonged exposure to the sun. Under the influence of an excessive dose of ultraviolet radiation, malignant formations appear on the skin or old moles degenerate into a cancerous tumor.
Basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma are non-melanoma skin cancers that are not fatal but require surgical removal of the affected areas. It has been noticed that the disease occurs much more often in people who work in the open sun for a long time.

Any dermatitis or phenomena of skin sensitization under the influence of ultraviolet radiation are provoking factors for the development of skin cancer.

Effect of UV waves on the eyes

Ultraviolet rays, depending on the depth of penetration, can also negatively affect the condition of a person’s eyes:

Photoophthalmia and electroophthalmia. Expressed in redness and swelling of the mucous membrane of the eyes, lacrimation, photophobia. Occurs when safety rules are not followed when working with welding equipment or in people who are in bright sunlight in a snow-covered area (snow blindness).
Growth of the conjunctiva of the eye (pterygium).
Cataract (clouding of the lens of the eye) is a disease that occurs to varying degrees in the vast majority of people in old age. Its development is associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation on the eyes, which accumulates throughout life.

Excess UV rays can cause various forms cancer of the eyes and eyelids.

The effect of ultraviolet radiation on the immune system

If the dosed use of UV radiation helps to increase the body’s defenses, then Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation depresses immune system . This has been proven in scientific studies by US scientists on the herpes virus. Ultraviolet radiation changes the activity of cells responsible for immunity in the body; they cannot restrain the proliferation of viruses or bacteria, cancer cells.

Basic safety precautions and protection against exposure to ultraviolet radiation

To avoid the negative effects of UV rays on the skin, eyes and health, every person needs protection from ultraviolet radiation. If you are forced to spend a long time in the sun or in a workplace exposed to high doses of ultraviolet rays, you must find out whether the UV radiation index is normal. In enterprises, a device called a radiometer is used for this.

When calculating the index at meteorological stations, the following are taken into account:

ultraviolet wavelength;
ozone layer concentration;
solar activity and other indicators.

The UV index is an indicator of the potential risk to the human body as a result of the influence of ultraviolet radiation on it. The index value is assessed on a scale from 1 to 11+. The norm for the UV index is considered to be no more than 2 units.

At high index values (6 – 11+), the risk of adverse effects on human eyes and skin increases, so protective measures must be taken.

Use sunglasses (special masks for welders).
In the open sun, you should definitely wear a hat (if the index is very high, a wide-brimmed hat).
Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.
On areas of the body not covered by clothing Apply sunscreen with a protection factor of at least 30.
Avoid being in an open space not protected from direct sunlight from noon to 4 p.m.

Following simple safety rules will reduce the harmfulness of UV radiation to humans and avoid the occurrence of diseases associated with the adverse effects of ultraviolet radiation on the body.

For whom ultraviolet irradiation is contraindicated?

The following categories of people should be careful with exposure to ultraviolet radiation:

with very fair and sensitive skin and albinos;
children and teenagers;
those who have many birthmarks or nevi;
suffering from systemic or gynecological diseases;
those who have had skin cancer among their close relatives;
those taking some for a long time medicines(consultation with a doctor is required).

UV radiation is contraindicated for such people even in small doses; the degree of protection from sunlight should be maximum.

The effect of ultraviolet radiation on the human body and its health cannot be clearly called positive or negative. There are too many factors to consider when it affects a person in different conditions external environment and radiation from various sources. The main thing to remember is the rule: any exposure to ultraviolet radiation on a person should be minimal before consulting a specialist and strictly dosed according to the doctor’s recommendations after examination and examination.

Ultraviolet radiation harm and benefit

Ultraviolet radiation: application, benefits and harm:

Ultraviolet rays

As for near ultraviolet rays, they are divided into three subgroups, classified according to ranges into:

Long, ranging from 400 to 315 nanometers;

Medium – from 315 to 280 nanometers;

Short - from 280 to 100 nanometers.

Measuring instruments

Ultraviolet sources

The main “supplier” of UV rays on our planet is, of course, the Sun. However, today man has also invented artificial sources of ultraviolet radiation, which are special lamp devices. Among them:

High-pressure mercury-quartz lamp capable of operating in the general range from 100 to 400 nm;

A luminescent vital lamp that generates waves with a length of 280 to 380 nm, the maximum peak of its emission is between the values of 310 and 320 nm;

Ozone-free and ozone bactericidal lamps that produce ultraviolet rays, 80% of which are 185 nm in length.

Benefits of UV Rays

Similar to natural ultraviolet radiation coming from the Sun, light produced by special devices affects the cells of plants and living organisms, changing their chemical structure. Today, researchers know of only a few species of bacteria that can exist without these rays. The rest of the organisms, if they find themselves in conditions where there is no ultraviolet radiation, will certainly die.

UV rays can have a significant impact on ongoing metabolic processes. They increase the synthesis of serotonin and melatonin, which has a positive effect on the functioning of the central nervous and endocrine systems. Under the influence of ultraviolet light, the production of vitamin D is activated. And this is the main component that promotes the absorption of calcium and prevents the development of osteoporosis and rickets.

Harm from UV rays

Ultraviolet erythema - severe skin burn;

Cataract – clouding of the lens of the eye, which leads to blindness;

Melanoma is skin cancer.

In addition, ultraviolet rays can have a mutagenic effect and cause disruptions in the functioning of the immune system, which causes the occurrence of oncological pathologies.

Skin lesions

Ultraviolet rays sometimes cause:

Acute skin injuries. Their occurrence is facilitated by high doses of solar radiation containing mid-range rays. They act on the skin for a short time, causing erythema and acute photodermatosis.
Delayed skin damage. It occurs after prolonged exposure to long-wave UV rays. These are chronic photodermatitis, solar geroderma, photoaging of the skin, the occurrence of neoplasms, ultraviolet mutagenesis, basal cell and squamous cell skin cancer. Herpes is also on this list.

Skin protection

The human body, with a limited amount of any sunbathing, is able to cope with ultraviolet radiation on its own. The fact is that over 20% of such rays can be blocked by healthy epidermis. Today, protection from ultraviolet radiation, in order to avoid the occurrence of malignant formations, will require:

Limiting time spent in the sun, which is especially important during summer afternoons;

Wearing light, but at the same time closed clothing;

Selection of effective sunscreens.

Using the bactericidal properties of ultraviolet light

Phototherapy

The use of UV rays in cosmetology

Special UV lamps are also necessary in cosmetology. Thanks to them, rapid polymerization of the special gel used for manicure occurs.

Determination of electronic structures of objects

The UV spectra of stars, the Sun and other planets carry information about the physical processes that occur in the hot regions of the space objects under study.

Water purification

Where else are UV rays used? Ultraviolet bactericidal radiation is used to disinfect drinking water. And if chlorine was previously used for this purpose, today its negative effect on the body has been studied quite well. So, the vapors of this substance can cause poisoning. The entry of chlorine into the body provokes the occurrence of cancer. That is why ultraviolet lamps are increasingly being used to disinfect water in private homes.

UV rays are also used in swimming pools. Ultraviolet emitters are used in the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industries to eliminate bacteria. These areas also need clean water.

Air disinfection

Household use

The use of a bactericidal irradiator in domestic conditions becomes advisable when the living area is small and there is a large family with small children and pets. A UV lamp will allow you to periodically disinfect rooms, minimizing the risk of the occurrence and further transmission of diseases.

Application in forensics

Ultraviolet and infrared radiation when taking macro photography of objects with invisible and barely visible traces of a crime. This allows forensic scientists to study documents and traces of a shot, texts that have undergone changes as a result of being covered in blood, ink, etc.

Other uses of UV rays

Ultraviolet radiation is used:

In show business to create lighting effects and lighting;

In currency detectors;

In printing;

In livestock and agriculture;

For catching insects;

In restoration;

For chromatographic analysis.

www.syl.ru

Harm and benefits of ultraviolet radiation

The benefit of ultraviolet rays is that they have an immunostimulating, anti-inflammatory, restorative effect, and can relieve many diseases.

The most well-known benefit of ultraviolet light is supplying the body with vitamin D. It is necessary for the formation of bone tissue. A lack of this vitamin in adults can lead to osteoporosis, and in children – rickets. Vitamin D, obtained from ultraviolet radiation, does not accumulate in the body, which means its overdose is excluded, which cannot be said about an artificially created drug.

In addition, vitamin D can perform many more useful functions. It prevents the development of breast, prostate and rectal cancer. The presence of this vitamin in blood cells stops the growth of malignant tumors and promotes their self-destruction. This is why people living in sunny areas are much less likely to suffer from such ailments.

Ultraviolet rays have a positive effect on the human immune system. Under their influence, the amount of antibodies in the blood increases, which increases the body's resistance to viruses and infections.

Small doses of ultraviolet light can protect the skin from subsequent intense exposure to sunlight. Thus, visiting a solarium is useful for those who plan to vacation in hot areas or work outdoors. Melanin formed in the skin is able to absorb large doses of radiation without destroying nearby cells.

But, in addition to its benefits, ultraviolet radiation is fraught with considerable danger. Everyone knows sunburn is the result of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays. Frequent sunburn increases the risk of skin cancer.

With excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation, eye damage can occur, such as a burn to the eyelid, cornea, and retina. Such injuries are quite dangerous; they can lead to either temporary vision loss or complete blindness.

Frequent and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight causes premature aging of the skin, and this is a completely reliable fact. Therefore, people relaxing in nature or sunbathing in a solarium must use cosmetics that protect their skin from ultraviolet rays.

www.justlady.ru

The influence of ultraviolet radiation on the human body: benefits and harms

Ultraviolet wavelength range

The main source of UV radiation is the sun. The share of ultraviolet radiation in the total flux of sunlight is not constant. It depends on:

time of day;
time of year;
solar activity;
geographical latitude;
state of the atmosphere.

The ultraviolet range of the spectrum, which reaches the earth's surface, is conventionally divided by wavelength into:

far (400 – 315 nm) – UV – A rays;
medium (315 – 280 nm) – UV – B rays;
near (280 – 100 nm) – UV – C rays.

The effect of each UV range on the human body is different: the shorter the wavelength, the deeper it penetrates through the skin. This law determines the positive or negative effects of ultraviolet radiation on the human body.

Near-range UV radiation has the most adverse effect on health and carries the threat of serious diseases.

UV-C rays should be scattered in the ozone layer, but due to poor ecology they reach the surface of the earth. Ultraviolet rays of the A and B ranges are less dangerous; with strict dosage, far- and mid-range radiation has a beneficial effect on the human body.

Artificial sources of ultraviolet radiation

The most significant sources of UV waves affecting the human body are:

bactericidal lamps - sources of UV - C waves, used to disinfect water, air or other environmental objects;
industrial welding arc – sources of all waves in the range of the solar spectrum;
erythemal fluorescent lamps - sources of UV waves in the A and B ranges, used for therapeutic purposes and in solariums;
industrial lamps are powerful sources of ultraviolet waves used in manufacturing processes to cure paints, inks, or cure polymers.

The characteristics of any UV lamp are its radiation power, wavelength range, type of glass, and service life. These parameters determine how useful or harmful the lamp will be to humans.

Before irradiation with ultraviolet waves from artificial sources for the treatment or prevention of diseases, you should consult with a specialist to select the necessary and sufficient erythema dose, which is individual for each person, taking into account his skin type, age, and existing diseases.

It should be understood that ultraviolet is electromagnetic radiation, which not only has a positive effect on the human body.

Positive effects of UV radiation on the human body

Ultraviolet radiation is widely used in the field of modern medicine. And this is not surprising, because UV rays produce analgesic, sedative, antirachitic and antispastic effects. Under their influence occurs:

formation of vitamin D, necessary for the absorption of calcium, development and strengthening of bone tissue;
decreased excitability of nerve endings;
increased metabolism, as it causes activation of enzymes;
dilation of blood vessels and improvement of blood circulation;
stimulating the production of endorphins - “hormones of happiness”;
increasing the speed of regenerative processes.

The beneficial effect of ultraviolet waves on the human body is also expressed in a change in its immunobiological reactivity - the body’s ability to exhibit protective functions against pathogens of various diseases. Strictly dosed ultraviolet irradiation stimulates the production of antibodies, thereby increasing the human body's resistance to infections.

Exposure of the skin to UV rays causes a reaction called erythema (redness). Vasodilation occurs, expressed by hyperemia and swelling. The breakdown products formed in the skin (histamine and vitamin D) enter the blood, which causes general changes in the body when irradiated with UV waves.

The degree of development of erythema depends on:

ultraviolet dose values;
range of ultraviolet rays;
individual sensitivity.

With excessive UV irradiation, the affected area of the skin is very painful and swollen, a burn occurs with the appearance of a blister and further convergence of the epithelium.

But skin burns are far from the most serious consequences of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation on humans. Unreasonable use of UV rays causes pathological changes in the body.

Negative effects of UV radiation on humans

Despite its important role in medicine, the harm of ultraviolet radiation on health outweighs the benefits. Most people are not able to accurately control the therapeutic dose of ultraviolet radiation and resort to protection methods in a timely manner, so an overdose often occurs, which causes the following phenomena:

headaches appear;
body temperature rises;
fatigue, apathy;
memory impairment;
rapid heartbeat;
decreased appetite and nausea.

Excessive tanning affects the skin, eyes and immune (defense) system. The tangible and visible consequences of excessive UV irradiation (burns of the skin and mucous membranes of the eyes, dermatitis and allergic reactions) disappear within a few days. Ultraviolet radiation accumulates over a long period of time and causes very serious diseases.

The effect of ultraviolet radiation on the skin

A beautiful, even tan is the dream of every person, especially the fairer sex. But it should be understood that skin cells darken under the influence of the coloring pigment released in them - melanin in order to protect against further ultraviolet irradiation. Therefore, tanning is a protective reaction of our skin to damage to its cells by ultraviolet rays. But it does not protect the skin from the more serious effects of UV radiation:

Photosensitivity is increased susceptibility to ultraviolet radiation. Even a small dose of it causes severe burning, itching and sunburn of the skin. This is often associated with the use of medications or the consumption of cosmetics or certain foods.
Photoaging. UV rays of spectrum A penetrate into the deep layers of the skin, damaging the structure of connective tissue, which leads to the destruction of collagen, loss of elasticity, and early wrinkles.
Melanoma is skin cancer. The disease develops after frequent and prolonged exposure to the sun. Under the influence of an excessive dose of ultraviolet radiation, malignant formations appear on the skin or old moles degenerate into a cancerous tumor.
Basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma are non-melanoma skin cancers that are not fatal but require surgical removal of the affected areas. It has been noticed that the disease occurs much more often in people who work in the open sun for a long time.

Any dermatitis or phenomena of skin sensitization under the influence of ultraviolet radiation are provoking factors for the development of skin cancer.

Effect of UV waves on the eyes

Ultraviolet rays, depending on the depth of penetration, can also negatively affect the condition of a person’s eyes:

Photoophthalmia and electroophthalmia. Expressed in redness and swelling of the mucous membrane of the eyes, lacrimation, photophobia. Occurs when safety rules are not followed when working with welding equipment or in people who are in bright sunlight in a snow-covered area (snow blindness).
Growth of the conjunctiva of the eye (pterygium).
Cataract (clouding of the lens of the eye) is a disease that occurs to varying degrees in the vast majority of people in old age. Its development is associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation on the eyes, which accumulates throughout life.

Excess UV rays can lead to various forms of eye and eyelid cancer.

The effect of ultraviolet radiation on the immune system

If dosed use of UV radiation helps to increase the body's defenses, then excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation suppresses the immune system. This has been proven in scientific studies by US scientists on the herpes virus. Ultraviolet radiation changes the activity of cells responsible for immunity in the body; they cannot restrain the proliferation of viruses or bacteria, cancer cells.

Basic safety precautions and protection against exposure to ultraviolet radiation

When calculating the index at meteorological stations, the following are taken into account:

ultraviolet wavelength;
ozone layer concentration;
solar activity and other indicators.

At high index values (6 – 11+), the risk of adverse effects on human eyes and skin increases, so protective measures must be taken.

Use sunglasses (special masks for welders).
In the open sun, you should definitely wear a hat (if the index is very high, a wide-brimmed hat).
Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.
Apply sunscreen with a protection factor of at least 30 to areas of the body not covered by clothing.
Avoid being in an open space not protected from direct sunlight from noon to 4 p.m.

Following simple safety rules will reduce the harmfulness of UV radiation to humans and avoid the occurrence of diseases associated with the adverse effects of ultraviolet radiation on the body.

For whom ultraviolet irradiation is contraindicated?

The following categories of people should be careful with exposure to ultraviolet radiation:

with very fair and sensitive skin and albinos;
children and teenagers;
those who have many birthmarks or nevi;
suffering from systemic or gynecological diseases;
those who have had skin cancer among their close relatives;
taking certain medications for a long time (consult a doctor).

UV radiation is contraindicated for such people even in small doses; the degree of protection from sunlight should be maximum.

The effect of ultraviolet radiation on the human body and its health cannot be clearly called positive or negative. Too many factors must be taken into account when it affects humans under different environmental conditions and with radiation from different sources. The main thing is to remember the rule: any exposure to ultraviolet radiation on a person should be minimal before consultation with a specialist and strictly dosed according to the doctor’s recommendations after examination and examination.

otravlenye.ru

The benefits and harms of ultraviolet radiation

Ultraviolet rays can greatly harm human health. However, their moderate exposure may even bring some benefit.

It's no secret that in large quantities Ultraviolet rays can cause irreparable harm to the human body. However, for this, their effect must be long-lasting and intense. If you stay under them correctly, on the contrary, you can get benefits. We'll look at both.

Let's start with the fact that nowadays we have the opportunity to experience the effects of ultraviolet radiation not only on the street - many girls go to the solarium for a dose of these rays. Naturally, the purpose of their campaign is the pursuit of beauty - getting a tan, and even radiation. Only, after all, tanning is achieved through radiation, and since it occurs very intensely in a solarium, the harm can be considerable if used incorrectly.

Let's consider what danger ultraviolet radiation poses:

it leads to depletion of the protective layer of the skin and, thus, to the development of benign (moles, warts, papillomas) and malignant (melanoma, sarcoma) formations - malignant ones can lead to cancer;
visual acuity deteriorates as the retina is damaged;
prolonged exposure to rays helps to reduce the immunity of the entire body - in addition to a general loss of strength, irritability appears.

And if benign formations on the skin can be dealt with - for example, by removing a mole, then malignant ones can cause much greater and irreparable harm to the body. People who already have some kind of education, as well as those with light skin that is prone to burns, are especially susceptible to their occurrence.

Therefore, prolonged exposure to the sun or solarium should be avoided. Also, do not forget that being in direct sunlight requires protecting your scalp - be sure to wear a hat or Panama hat. And, of course, the skin must be protected as much as possible - use good means aimed at protecting against the penetration of ultraviolet rays.

Undoubtedly, ultraviolet light also has its advantages. They can only express themselves under the condition of a short, strictly limited stay under them. Let's list positive aspects:

skin disinfection occurs;
Vitamin D is intensively produced, which is involved in the formation of calcium, necessary for bone tissue, and has a positive effect on our mood;
blood vessels are strengthened;
the functioning of the nervous system is normalized.

Thus, we can conclude that the benefits of ultraviolet radiation can only manifest themselves if certain rules for being under it and strict time limits are observed. If you overdo it a little, the effect immediately becomes only negative.