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Clean air is essential for good health. The list below describes some of the indoor allergens
and pollutants that everyone should be aware of. If you suspect that you may be exposed to any
of these hazards, visit the "Allergens & Pollutants" page to learn about some precautions you can
take around your home to help reduce harmful pollutants.
Dust Mites
Dust mites are microscopic animals that live in household dust. They feed off tiny flakes of human
skin, and breed in carpets, curtains, and furniture. Each dust mite lives two to four months and
produces 20 droppings per day, which is a major source of "dust allergies."
Gases
Aerosol cans and cleaning products may carry toxic gases or produce unpleasant odors. Combustion
equipment, including gas furnaces and water heaters, stoves, unvented gas or kerosene space heaters,
clothes dryers, and fireplaces can also contribute to the number of indoor pollutants if used
inappropriately or not kept in proper working order. Long term inhalation of these hazardous toxins
can result in headaches, dizziness, or more serious problems.
Pet dander
Pet dander is tiny flakes of dead skin from family pets. Dander can cause sneezing, congestion,
and even asthma. These flakes can be airborne, but more often nestle into carpets and furniture
creating unknown, long-term problems.
Pollen
A primary contributor to hay fever, pollen particles linger in the wind. They blow into homes
through open doors and windows or they may be carried in on clothing. Many people suffer from
allergies induced by pollen and dust, but are unaware of the cause of their problems.
Bacteria & Viruses
Bacteria and viruses, found on household surfaces, can cause common colds and flu. Sources
include outdoor air, human occupants who shed viruses and bacteria, animal occupants
(insects and other arthropods, mammals) that shed allergens, and indoor surfaces and
water reservoirs where fungi and bacteria can grow. More serious diseases such as tuberculosis
and other respiratory diseases may also be caused from these forms of pollutants.
Mold
Mold, mildew, and fungus grow in dark, damp places. These growths create spores, which can
linger in your air, triggering allergies or asthma. Mold commonly appears on bathroom tiles,
wood or linoleum floors, and painted or wallpapered walls.
Tobacco smoke
Caused from cigarette, pipe, and cigar smoking, tobacco smoke can cause headaches, nose,
throat, and eye irritation; bronchitis, and pneumonia. Children are more likely to develop
respiratory and ear infections. Heart disease and lung cancer are well-established
consequences to long-term exposure.
Asbestos
Asbestos, a structural fire proofing substance no longer in use today, is predominantly
found in heating systems and acoustic insulation, in floor and ceiling tiles, and in shingles
of many older houses. The health risk of asbestos occurs when aging materials containing it
begin to deteriorate. Asbestos fibers are released into the air and inhaled. Exposure causes
no immediate symptoms, however, prolonged inhalation of both radon and asbestos can
cause lung cancer.
Humidifiers, Dehumidifiers, and Air Conditioners
Improperly cared for humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and air conditioners can cause a number
of irritating symptoms including, fever, dizziness, asthma, digestive problems, shortness of
breath, and throat, nose or eye irritation.
VOC's (Volatile Organic Compounds) pesticides, Solvents, Household Cleaning Agents
A wide variety of VOC's are emitted by products used in the home. Numbering in the thousands,
these products include scents, hair sprays, finishes, rug and oven cleaners, paints and lacquers,
paint thinners and strippers, dry-cleaning fluid, building materials, carpets, and other home
furnishings. Signs and symptoms of VOC exposure may include eye and respiratory irritation,
nasal congestion, rash, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
Source: The Inside Story and Indoor Air Pollution from the EPA.
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