Anyone with allergies knows that outdoor air pollution can be a trigger for an allergic reaction or asthmatic attack. Many cities across the nation publish outdoor air quality measurements, and advise people to stay indoors when the air is bad. According to the EPA, however, air quality in your home can be two to 10 times worse than the air outside, thanks to indoor pollution sources.
Dust
Common household dust is a major source of allergic reactions in the home. Dust can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat as well as the lungs when inhaled. Regular cleaning, as well as changing the filter on your air conditioner, can help reduce the amount of dust you breathe in.
Biological Pollutants
Many of the sources of pollution indoors are biological in nature. Spores from mold, mildew, or other fungus, animal dander, and viruses and bacteria can all thrive in the indoor environment. Reducing humidity can limit the ability of microorganisms to thrive in your home, and an air purifier can help remove these from the air.
Products of Combustion
Any time something burns, it releases particles of ash and other materials into the air with the smoke. These particles can irritate lungs when inhaled, and can trigger allergic reactions and cause long-term health problems with repeated exposure. Ensuring heaters and other devices are properly vented and smoking outdoors or in a well-ventilated area can reduce these pollutants.
Household Chemicals
Many cleaning products utilize harsh solvents and other chemicals that can be toxic in high concentrations. The fumes from these chemicals can be dangerous in enclosed areas, and long-term exposure can cause illness. In addition, some types of chemicals, when mixed, can produce extremely hazardous substances. Proper ventilation and following manufacturers' directions can keep these sources from becoming a major problem.
Carbon Monoxide
A byproduct of combustion, carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can cause dizziness, unconsciousness, and even death. Open flame heaters and gas appliances produce carbon monoxide, requiring careful installation to ensure that they are safely vented. A carbon monoxide detector is a good idea if you have multiple gas fixtures or older gas heaters in your home.
Radon
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into your home through the basement and fill your home. Radon is colorless and odorless, requiring special equipment to detect a leak. According to the EPA, exposure to radon in your home can increase your chance of developing lung cancer by as much as 50 percent.
References
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: An Introduction to Indoor Air Quality
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Biological Pollutants
- Environmental Health Watch: Residential Pollution Hazards
- Florida Department of Environmental Protection: Indoor Air Quality
- California Air Resources Board: Reducing Indoor Air Pollution
