How Does Air Quality Affect Health and Well-Being?

The World Health Organization says that more than 90 percent of people live in a place where there is too much pollution according to a 2016 study. The chances that you and I are in the ten percent in the safe range are not good. How does excess traffic, wood smoke, VOC’s, and other pollution affect our bodies?

Pollution Triggers Allergies and Respiratory Illness

High traffic rates, hot temperatures, humidity, factory exhaust, and fires pollute the air every day. The more semis that use the Interstate, the higher the smog factor goes up in these places. Construction, new businesses, and additional bus lines all contribute to our air quality. People in high pollution zones will experience more headaches, sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, runny noses, and tearing up. Anyone who has health issues with their lungs will have trouble breathing, need to see the doctor more often, require more medication, and experience wheezing and shortness of breath.

Poor Air Conditions Lead to Cardiovascular Issues

People that live in areas with pollution develop current and long-term health problems like strokes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Pollution causes stress on the body. Problems breathing make these issues even worse. When the heart has to work harder, more health problems can develop.

Low Air Quality Levels Cause Premature Death

The WHO feels that more than 4 million people died early in 2016 because of pollutants in the air. One of the reasons for the early deaths is that lung cancer is one of the health problems that arise with poor air. Indoor and outdoor air quality are both to blame for these deaths. One way that people can minimize the risks is to install an energy-efficient HVAC system to circulate the air and clean it.

Reduce Pollutants in the Home

Volatile organic compounds are found in the chemical release from household cleaners, burning wood or kerosene, and painting. Getting rid of these pollutants is necessary for keeping air quality levels in a safe range. Using clean heat sources like electricity instead of fireplaces will help. Natural cleaning solutions using vinegar are best. HEPA filters, air filters, vents, and HVAC systems, like those available from Derek Sawyers Smart Energy Heating and Air, all reduce indoor pollutants helping your family have a safe reprieve from the outdoor environment.

Air quality directly affects our well-being. When you want to improve how you live, then you can change what you can control like the quality of your air at home. Recycling, reducing waste and energy consumption, carpooling, and doing yard work in the evening will help outdoors. During high smog days or ozone alerts, pumping gas is better left for the night too.