Indoor Air Quality and Health Effects

Overview

• The air contains various gases and particles, often invisible to the naked eye.
• Everything inhaled affects health differently.

Health Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality

• Short-term Symptoms
  • Headaches
  • Eye, nose, and throat irritation
  • Coughing and painful breathing
  • Bronchitis
  • Skin irritation
• Severe Health Issues
  • Central nervous system impacts
  • Respiratory diseases (e.g., asthma, emphysema)
  • Cancer
  • Cardiovascular diseases
  • Effects on blood, spleen, liver, and reproductive system
• At-risk Groups
  • Young children
  • Older adults
  • Individuals with existing lung diseases

Understanding Lung Function

• Air enters through nose/mouth, travels down trachea.
• Divides into right/left lung via bronchi.
• Bronchi split into bronchioles, further into tiny passages.
• Ends in alveoli, wrapped in capillaries, facilitating oxygen transport.

Indoor Air Contaminants

• Contain small particles, impacting health when inhaled.
• Examples of particles: dust, tobacco smoke, diesel emissions, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, chemicals, gases.
• Particulate Matter (PM): Very small and can reach alveoli.
  • Can irritate and damage alveoli, leading to lung diseases.
  • High levels linked to increased risk of stroke and heart attack.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

• Avoid Particulate Matter Creators
  • Wood-burning stoves, air fresheners, sprays, harsh chemicals.
• Ventilation
  • Use exhaust fans or open windows while cooking.
• Air Cleaning
  • Use portable air cleaners with HEPA filters.
• Reduce Dust
  • Vacuum regularly and use microfiber or damp cloth for dusting.
• Control Humidity
  • Prevent mold and mildew.
• Maintenance
  • Change appliance filters frequently.
  • Test for dangerous gases like radon.

By following these measures, indoor air quality can be improved, reducing health risks.

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Learn more at lung.org