What is Indoor Air Pollution?

A lot of people think of air pollution as smog and car emissions. This is outdoor air pollution, but it is more harmful when it becomes indoor air pollution. Indoor air pollution happens when some air pollutants from particles and gas contaminates the air of indoor areas. These air pollutants could cause respiratory diseases or even cause cancer. Removing air pollutants can enhance the quality of your indoor air.

The Causes of Indoor Air Pollution

Humidity, high temperature, Toxic products and inadequate ventilation are just a few of the primary causes of indoor air pollution in our homes.

Asbestos

Asbestos is the principal cause of indoor air pollution. Asbestos can be found in several materials used commonly in the automotive industry and also in home construction. They are mostly found in paints, ceiling and floor tiles, coatings, and building materials. You’ll never find asbestos as often as you used to because modern products do not contain asbestos. However, if you have an old house that was built a long time ago, the risks of asbestos are greater than that of a newer home.

If Asbestos is in your home, it can cause you serious health challenges such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis, and various other types of cancers.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is another leading cause of indoor air pollution. It is found in paints, sealants, and also wood floors. Also, as one of the most well-known indoor air pollutants, Formaldehyde can also cause some health problems. You may experience irritation of the throat, eyes, and nose, as well as allergic reactions. There have been cases where it has also caused cancer.

Tobacco smoke

Tobacco smoke that comes from outdoor and indoor areas can also be a cause of indoor air pollutant.  Tobacco smoke causes people to experience severe respiratory irritation, pneumonia, heart disease, bronchitis, emphysema, as well as lung cancer.

Three Ways To Improving Indoor Air quality

Smoking

Smoking of cigarettes, tobacco, etc. is one of the most common types of indoor air pollution. The best thing to do is to discontinue smoking and make your home an anti-smoking zone. The less the smoke that is being emitted into the air, the less the chance of one of the listed effects or disease happening to someone you love.

Cleaning products

Ensure that you check the active ingredients for any of your cleaning supplies to ensure that they are environmentally friendly. Do your homework on what you consider being a dangerous ingredient. You can also find an environmentally friendly cleaning list online so you know just exactly what you want to buy.

Asbestos

Have your home inspected for asbestos. This is typically done before you move into your new home. If you are moving into a home that was built just after the ban of asbestos, it is advisable to check and make sure there is none still lingering around the house.

Making little changes in the home can really make a tremendous difference. Having your home checked on a regular basis can really help you to prevent any further harm to not only your home but you and your entire family as well.