Types Of Indoor Air Pollution

When most people think of the word pollution, they picture smog in the sky over a busy city. However, indoor air pollution is sometimes even more dangerous than outdoor pollution. There are all types of things that can be responsible for indoor air pollution. The gases that heating equipment emits, the fibers from fabric and carpeting, dust that builds up on furniture and allergens from outside that are carried in are all types of indoor air pollutants. Mold spores, airborne viruses and other types of biological contaminants can also contribute to pollution. You may not realize that the perfume or cooking spray you use is polluting your home, either. Knowing what causes indoor pollution and just how dangerous certain toxins may be is the first step to cleaning up your air.

Particles In the Air

One main cause of indoor pollution is particles that somehow get into the air, even though they're not there naturally. When people walk in the house from outside, they often bring pollen along with them. The pollen can be on their shoes or skin, or in their hair. Many people are allergic to pollen and having it in their home can cause a serious allergic reaction. The same goes for dirt, fibers and dust, all of which can come from furniture in one home and then be carried into another home. Particles from insulation and pet dander are other common types of air pollutants that can be transported from one setting to another. Depending on the type of insulation, this pollutant can be highly toxic and dangerous.

Gases and Odors

Gases and odors can greatly contribute to air pollution. Regular, daily tasks, like spraying an aerosol can or putting on your perfume, can release gases into the environment. Many people don't know that even liquid cleaning products can give off gases. Air fresheners, varnishes and paint not only give off gases, but odors and noxious fumes as well, contributing to indoor pollution. Stoves and heaters emit chemical vapors into the air. Perfumes, cigarettes and cigars, and pesticides all add to pollution, too.

Biological Contaminants

Biological contaminants include yeast, mold spores, fungus, dust mites, bacteria and viruses. Biological contaminants are commonly found in moist, warm areas. One of the most common places to find these contaminants are in places where people sleep. Often, these contaminants are a sign of a home that's not maintained well or cleaned regularly. If the problem is allowed to go on too long, it can be difficult or impossible to disinfect.

Indoor Pollution and Your Health

Indoor air pollutants can cause or contribute to a variety of health problems. Asthma and other respiratory problems may get worse because of indoor pollution. For example, if an asthmatic sleeps in a bed where there's a large number of dust mites, the person may have asthma attacks during the night. Particles and biological contaminants can give people headaches and allergies. Common allergy symptoms include coughing, sneezing and itchy eyes. Indoor air pollutants may also cause nausea and fatigue, specifically from gases and odors. Other pollutants can cause upper respiratory infections. For example, tobacco smoke can cause lung cancer.

It's important to pay attention to these symptoms, especially if you notice a drastic change. Pollution has the ability to cause major, life-changing health problems.