Recent studies show that several common physical and physiological issues may be due to the polluted air we breathe inside our homes and offices. The EPA states that indoor air is far more polluted that outdoor air due to factors such as mold, building materials, and more. When considering public and personal health, indoor air quality therefore becomes an important question. The good news is that with a bit of information and a few simple steps, we can understand the issue and start to correct it.
Effects of Breathing Polluted Air
Authoritative sources agree that conditions such as aggravated asthma, respiratory issues such as coughing and difficulty breathing, and lung and cardio stress can be direct results of air pollution. The effects and symptoms, however, can also be far more pervasive. Polluted air can cause dizziness, confusion, and disorientation; sleepiness, nausea, headaches, and weakness are also common symptoms, and pollution can even impair vision and coordination.
Indoor Air Versus Outdoor Air
According to the EPA, the poor quality of indoor air is currently one of the top public health risks. While better insulation techniques save energy and money in modern buildings, airtight structures tend to contain pollutants even more than older ones. The result is that indoor air harbors two to five times more pollutants than outdoor air. Naturally, this means that people are breathing increasingly dangerous air, especially those who work indoors.
What Pollutes Indoor Air?
Building materials, home furnishings, sources of heat, high temperature and humidity are all factors that contribute majorly to the pollution level of indoor air. Additionally, one of the largest threats to health found in the air are volatile organic compounds - or VOCs - compounds that easily become vapors or gases. Materials containing commonly found in the home that contains VOCs include paint, cleaners and disinfectants, aerosol sprays, dry-cleaned clothes, permanent markers, air fresheners, hobby supplies and many more.
Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality and Overall Health
The natural question then becomes, "How can we improve indoor air and limit the effects of pollution?" Here are a few ideas.
- Open the windows
- Decorate with live plants
- Keep humidity at less than fifty percent
- Service fuel-burning appliances
- Never smoke indoors
- Clean air ducts and change filters
- Limit use of scented candles and room fresheners
- Avoid hazardous cleaning materials
While this list cannot be conclusive, these relatively simple steps can make an important positive impact on the environment in the home.
Conclusion
While completely eliminating pollutants from the air you breath may be impossible, it is both necessary and feasible to drastically reduce pollutants and improve health. Following the practical steps presented above will reduce VOCs and create an environment that is unfriendly to pollutants. The result will be a decrease in health issues such as asthma, headaches, and anxiety. Not only is within our power to take these relatively simple steps, but it will soon be within our experience to see profound positive effects.
