The air we breathe plays a vital role in our health and well-being. Yet, while outdoor air pollution has received much attention recently, indoor air quality is just as important and often neglected. This blog post will take a closer look at what’s in the air we breathe, focusing on indoor air.
Common Indoor Air Contaminants
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
These are chemicals released into the air from products such as paints, cleaning supplies, and personal care products. They can be invisible and have a distinct odor, but only sometimes. However, they can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, and in severe cases, long-term health problems.
Particulate Matter (PM)
These tiny particles float in the air and can be inhaled into our lungs. They can come from sources such as tobacco smoke, cooking, and dust. Particulate Matter can be seen as fine dust or smoke but can also be invisible. Inhaling PM can cause respiratory problems and worsen conditions such as asthma and heart disease.
Biological Contaminants
This includes mold, mildew, bacteria, and viruses. These can be visible or invisible and cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems. They can grow in damp or humid areas and are often a result of poor ventilation or water damage.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
This is a toxic gas produced by burning fuel. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect. It can cause headaches, dizziness, and in severe cases, death. Carbon monoxide is often a result of improperly ventilated appliances such as stoves, heaters, and fireplaces.
Radon
This naturally occurring radioactive gas is released from the ground and can enter buildings through cracks in the foundation. It’s the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. and is also odorless and tasteless, making it difficult to detect.
Formaldehyde
This toxic chemical is commonly found in building materials and furniture. It can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, and in severe cases, it can cause cancer. Formaldehyde can be released into the air from products such as particleboard, flooring, and textiles.
Adverse Health Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality
Breathing in poor-quality indoor air can have a range of negative health effects. Some of these include:
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Headaches
- Allergic reactions
- Respiratory problems, including asthma and bronchitis
- Dizziness
- Long-term health problems, including cardiovascular disease and cancer
- Increased risk of lung cancer, especially from radon exposure
- Ventilating your home regularly to bring in fresh air
- Using natural, non-toxic cleaning products and personal care items
- Keeping your home well-maintained and free of moisture and mold
- Using air filters to remove particulate matter and other contaminants
- Testing your home for radon and taking steps to reduce exposure if necessary