Indoor Air Quality Effects on Health
Organizations such as the EPA and WHO now recognize indoor air pollution among the top health risks for the average person. Air pollution is often considered within the context of long-term effects, such as how it can exacerbate and even lead to heart and respiratory diseases. But the effects from poor indoor air quality can happen in the short-term and even be immediate in some cases.
Ear, Nose and Throat Irritation
When a person experiences an immediate reaction to indoor air pollution, irritation of the ear, nose or throat are among the most common. Such symptoms may be superficial and little more than a nuisance in many cases. However, they can also trigger and exacerbate allergies, sinusitis and asthma, and the irritation can worsen symptoms associated with respiratory illnesses and diseases.
Headaches and Dizziness
While science is still debating whether air pollution directly causes headaches, numerous studies have shown that subjects exposed to higher pollution levels are more prone to headaches and muscle aches during the exposure. Some people are highly susceptible and will experience a headache almost immediately and can eventually become dizzy or otherwise mildly disoriented.
Fatigue
Occasional fatigue happens to us all, but if you experience chronic fatigue, then there is a real possibility that air quality is playing a role. Higher pollution levels cause reduced and less efficient oxygen intake. In addition, the aforementioned ENT irritation can lead to sleep apnea. Sleep apnea causes you to wake up intermittently throughout the night gasping for air. Your body is never able to maintain a deep sleep, which is what causes the daytime drowsiness.
Protect Your Health
Having strong indoor air quality can be very beneficial to the health of you and your family. At Carlos Warren & Son in Dexter, MO, we are your local IAQ experts and can assist you with air testing and the installation and maintenance of an air purification system. We also offer a full range of heating and cooling services. Call us today to learn more about those services and to schedule an appointment.
