Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that causes constriction in the bronchial passages when triggered, according to MedlinePlus. The inflammation of the airways causes soreness and swelling, making them exceedingly sensitive to external factors such as air pollution. During an asthma attack, airways close and cause shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing. Asthmatics should evaluate air quality within the home as well as avoid heavily polluted areas that can cause further respiratory irritation and complication.
Worsens Symptoms
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, air pollution can make asthma symptoms worse, causing asthmatics breathing difficulty, excessive chest discomfort, burning in the lungs and coughing. Ozone, which is present in smog, and particle pollution outdoors can cause persistent irritation for asthmatics and worsen symptoms over time. Ozone pollution peaks during hot summer days, particularly in the afternoons and early evening. Particle pollution can occur anytime of the year, but most notably during calm weather or when smoke is present--such as fireplaces, wood stoves or burning vegetation.
Triggers Attacks
Air pollution can trigger attacks in asthmatics by causing the airways to constrict, leading to shortness of breath, wheezing and other asthma symptoms. Additionally, constant exposure to air pollution can also make asthmatics more susceptible to other allergens such as mold and dust mites, the Environmental Protection Agency says. A higher sensitivity to indoor asthma triggers, for example, may be indicative of constant outdoor air pollution exposure.
Increased Occurrences
A 2009 John Hopkins University study showed increasing levels of indoor particulate matter pollution actually increased the number of asthma occurrences, as well as the severity. Particulate matter is an airborne mixture of both solid particles and liquid droplets, the study says. Many of these finely-sized particles, which contain numerous chemical components, can penetrate deep within the body's respiratory system, causing increased occurrences of asthma attacks. Much of the pollution comes from normal daily activities such as cooking and dusting.
