You can’t control the haze, but you can minimise the harmful effects on your health with these tips from doctors.

You’re probably already familiar with the different ways that the haze can affect you. Perhaps you’ve also experienced them. Now learn how you can protect yourself from the haze in order to minimise its harmful effects with these tips from doctors.

Protect your throat

Drink plenty of water

It’s best to carry a bottle of water with you everywhere, especially if you are always on the go. Drinking lots of water will help reduce throat irritation from the haze, and also protects your voice.

Stay indoors

It’s especially important to reduce outdoor physical activity when the PSI is in the unhealthy range (above PSI 100). Instead, exercise in the gym, perform resistance exercises at home with weights, or do high intensity circuit workouts indoors.

When the PSI is in the very unhealthy range (above PSI 200), stay indoors as far as possible. You can also consider using an air filtration device to improve the air quality at home. If you have to spend prolonged periods of time outdoors, wear an N95 mask that has been properly fitted.

(Also read: 9 Best Foods to Soothe A Sore Throat)

Watch your health

Those with pre-existing, chronic medical conditions such as allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, asthma or lung disease should take their medications regularly, and see their doctor if they are feeling unwell.

Source: Dr Valerie Tay, ear nose and throat consultant at Tan Tock Seng Hospital

Protect your eyes

Reduce exposure to the haze

Wearing goggles or broad-rimmed sunglasses help to physically reduce eye exposure to the haze. This minimises the chances of eye irritations.

Cut back on contacts

Reducing contact lens wear is also helpful, as haze can worsen dry eyes. Contact lens users should also consider switching to glasses if eye irritation becomes significant.

Hydrate your eyes

Using preservative-free lubricating eye drops to moisturise and applying cold compress to the eyes can alleviate symptoms of dry and allergic eyes. If you’ve got eye irritations, try an over-the-counter eye drop that’s specifically formulated for eye allergies. These usually contain sodium cromoglycate, a medicinal ingredient that reduces the release of histamine that can cause inflammation of the eyes.  Sodium cromoglycate eye drops can be prescribed by doctors, but are also available without prescription.

See a doctor if need be

In severe cases of eye irritation, prescription eye drops may be needed. It’s important to visit an ophthalmologist before starting on a treatment plan as some patients may require steroid eye drops, which could have side effects.

(Also read: You Can Get Lao Hua in Your 30s – Here’s How to Protect Your Eyes)

Drink up

Keeping the body healthy and well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluid can also improve dry eyes and overall well-being. For an added boost, you can consider taking omega-3 fish oil in a capsule form as well.

Source: Dr Daphne Han, ophthalmologist at Mount Elizabeth Hospital

Protect your skin

Antioxidants are your BFF

Pick skincare products with antioxidants to protect your skin against free radical damage and reduce the harmful effects of the haze. Skin is also usually drier than usual, so choose a good moisturiser as well.

(Also read: Antioxidant-Rich Skincare Products That Will Boost Your Complexion)

Protect yourself from harmful UV rays

To prevent premature skin ageing, continue using a broad-spectrum sunscreen even though it’s hazy outside as UV rays can still shine through. Consider using sun-protective gear like hats and umbrellas too.

Source: Dr Gavin Ong, dermatologist at Gleneagles Hospital