Health Effects

HEALTH EFFECTS and INDOOR AIR QUALITY

The health care community continues to determine the extent and range of housing-related health effects:

The indoor environment is also affected by agents and conditions originating outside for example, the quality of outdoor air (pollution levels, temperature and humidity) and radon and other soil gases which enter through leaks and cracks in the foundation.

All of these agents and conditions affect the quality of the indoor environment and may pose potential dangers to your health. Regardless of your health needs, clean indoor air can provide the basis for a nurturing environment. It can improve the quality of your health and your sense of wellbeing.

Many chemicals, such as formaldehyde, toluene and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found as contaminants in homes and offices, are known to have adverse effects on human health. Molds, besides causing allergic reactions and acute infections, can cause chronic illnesses in humans.

The health care community continues to determine the extent and range of housing-related health effects. Some of the ailments that may be related to poor indoor air quality are:

allergic rhinitis

anemia

asthma

asbestosis

cancer

cardiovascular stress

coughing

digestive problems

dizziness

dry, chapped or irritated skin

emphysema

eye, nose and throat irritation

fatigue

headaches

impaired lung function/shortness of breath

impaired vision

impaired coordination

influenza

learning impairment

liver and kidney damage

loss of bone calcium

nervous system depression

nose bleeds

pneumonia

rashes

respiratory distress

respiratory infection

sinus congestion

Exposure to contaminants can also have a number of indirect health effects, including increased susceptibility to disease from other causes, aggravation of existing disease and sensitization to the same and other environmental agents.