In recent years, growing scientific evidence has shown that indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air—even in major industrialized cities. People spend around 90% of their time indoors, making indoor air quality a major concern for public health.
Those most vulnerable to indoor air pollution—such as children, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses (especially respiratory or cardiovascular conditions)—often spend the most time indoors.
While individual sources of indoor pollutants may not pose major health risks alone, many homes contain multiple sources. The cumulative effect can be significant and harmful to health.
What Causes Indoor Air Problems?
The main cause of indoor air problems is pollution from indoor sources—such as volatile organic compounds, gas appliances, or mold—that release particles and gases into the air. Poor ventilation makes matters worse by trapping pollutants inside and failing to introduce enough fresh air. High humidity and temperature can increase pollutant concentrations.
Indoor Air and Your Health
Health effects from indoor air pollutants may appear shortly after exposure or years later.
Immediate effects can include eye, nose, or throat irritation; headaches; dizziness; or fatigue. These are often short-term and may improve after removing the pollutant source. However, symptoms of conditions like asthma or hypersensitivity pneumonitis may appear quickly after exposure.
Susceptibility varies. People with preexisting health conditions, the very young, and the elderly may be more sensitive. Some individuals become sensitized after repeated exposure to biological or chemical pollutants.
Since symptoms of indoor air quality issues may resemble those of colds or other illnesses, it's important to track when and where symptoms occur.
If you would like more information or to schedule a test, call 920-395-3622.