February Healthy Air Tip Location: 160 S. Macy Street Fond du Lac, Wisconsin 54935 Healthy Air Tip of the Month: Be Aware of Indoor Air "Air pollution" and "air quality" usually make you think about the air outside. But in truth, indoor air can be three to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Indoor air pollution comes from many sources, but the biggest problem is poor air circulation. Gases, vapors and particles are released and then not ventilated away well enough. The sources of indoor air pollution are many and varied and include: Carpet, plywood and other construction materials. That "new smell" comes from gases released from the chemicals used to treat or make construction materials. Household cleaners, sprays, air fresheners, pesticides, cosmetics, perfumes, scented candles. Every time these products are used, chemical fumes are emitted. Damp or humid areas can harbor mold, mildew and bacteria which can aggravate asthma or cause other allergic reactions in the nose, eyes, or skin. Flame-retardant or stain-resistant fabrics are treated with chemicals that emit vapors. Also, dust and dust mites accumulate in bedding, pillows and stuffed furniture. Pets. Animal dander, as well as proteins in pet saliva, urine or feces can trigger asthma episodes. Second-hand smoke is up to four times more harmful than smoke inhaled directly from a cigarette. Cigarette smoke travels through a filter; second-hand smoke does not. Glues, paints, glazes, etc. emit vaporous chemicals Health effects from indoor air pollutants can show up right away through irritated eyes, noses and throats, headaches, fatigue and asthma flares, or the damage may take years to develop, for example, respiratory or heart disease and cancer. To improve indoor air quality, remove the sources of pollution first. Clean up mold and fix leaky pipes or other sources of moisture. Minimize the use of chemical products and solvents and use them outdoors when possible. Indoor air exchangers increase the rate at which outside air comes into your house. This is an especially important appliance to use in newly constructed homes that are tightly sealed. Solutions that are more appropriate for short-term relief include using ventilation fans located in the kitchen or bathroom, washing pets more frequently, or opening windows/doors. House plants have no proven ability to remove pollutants from indoor air.
