Can a Water Purifier Cause a Throat Infection: A Personal Experience and Expert Insights
Water purifiers are designed to improve water quality, making it safer and better tasting for consumption. However, in rare cases, they might become a source of concern, such as the potential to cause throat infections. This article explores the factors that could contribute to such issues and a personal experience that sheds light on how a correctly functioning reverse osmosis (RO) system can solve these problems.
Factors Contributing to Health Issues with Water Purifiers
Despite their primary purpose being to purify water, several factors can make water purifiers a potential source of health problems:
Contaminated Filters
Filters play a crucial role in the purification process. If these filters are not regularly cleaned or replaced, they may harbor bacteria, mold, or other contaminants. These can then contaminate the water passing through the purifier, leading to infections and other health issues. It is essential to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for filter changes to reduce the risk of such contamination.
Improper Maintenance
Maintaining a water purifier involves more than just changing filters. Neglecting regular maintenance checks, such as cleaning the exterior or checking for leaks, can result in the growth of pathogens within the purifier. These pathogens may be ingested when drinking the water, leading to gastrointestinal issues or infections.
Quality of Source Water
The effectiveness of a water purifier depends largely on the quality of the incoming water. If the source water is heavily contaminated and the purifier is not robust enough, harmful microorganisms can still pass through, posing a health risk.
User Sensitivity
Individuals may have varying sensitivities to certain contaminants. Some may experience throat irritation or other symptoms even if the water purifier is functioning correctly. Identifying and addressing these sensitivities can help reduce potential health issues.
A Personal Experience with a Reverse Osmosis System
Those who have a reverse osmosis water system installation may experience unexpected health issues, such as a persistent, never-ending cough. In this case, the narrator attributes their symptoms to the water purifier. Although it is not definitively confirmed, the individual suspects a connection due to the absence of issues when the water changes.
Engaging with a professional was key in resolving the issue. The customer visited the regional office of the Kent company and discussed the problem with technical experts. The experts pointed to the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels as a possible cause. The TDS input and output of the purifier were not set correctly upon installation, leading to very low TDS levels, which might have caused the throat infections.
Upon examining the purifier, the technician found the TDS output to be between 6-7, far lower than the ideal range of 50-70. Adjusting the TDS output to the recommended level resolved the problem. Since then, the narrator and their family members have not experienced any throat infections again.
Conclusion
While water purifiers are generally safe, ensuring their proper maintenance and setting the correct parameters are crucial for avoiding potential health issues. Regular check-ups and adherence to manufacturer guidelines can help prevent problems like throat infections. Seeking professional assistance can also yield quick and effective solutions, as demonstrated in the personal experience discussed here.
For those concerned about their water purifiers, understanding the factors contributing to potential health issues and taking proactive steps to address them is essential. By staying informed and maintaining proper care, water purifiers can continue to provide a safe and healthy source of drinking water.