- Acute Bronchitis
- Asthma
- Chronic Obstructive
- Pulmonary Disease
- Coughs
- Flu (Influenza)
- Lung Cancer
- Pneumonia
What Are The Cause of Lung Disease
It may surprise many people to discover that indoor air
contains just as much, if not more, sources of air pollution than outdoor air
pollution! Among others, known cause of lung disease include the following;
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs originate mainly from solvents and chemicals commonly
used in office or home furnishings. The main indoor sources are perfumes,
chemical sprays, furniture polish, glues, moth repellents, wood preservatives
and many other products used in the house. The main health effect is the
irritation of the eye, nose and throat. In more severe cases there may be
headaches, nausea and loss of coordination. In the long term, some of the
pollutants are suspected to damage to the liver and other parts of the body.
Tobacco Smoke
This common pollutant generates a wide range of harmful
chemicals and is known to cause cancer. It is well known that passive smoking
cause a wide range of problems to the passive smoker ranging from burning eyes,
nose and throat irritation to cancer, bronchitis, severe asthma and decrease in
lung function.
Pesticides
Pesticides can come in the form of aerosol sprays such as
mosquito or insect repellents commonly used in households.
Biological Pollutants
These include pollen from plants, fungi, parasites, dust
mites and even bacteria from exposed food. Most biological pollutants are
allergens and can give rise to asthma, hay fever and other allergic iseases.
Formaldehyde
This gas is emitted mainly from carpets, particle boards,
insulation foam and furniture fixtures. It can cause irritation to the eyes and
nose with prolonged exposure posing serious risks to health.
Asbestos
Asbestos is natural fibre that comes from minerals and
widely used in ceiling boards. The fibres tend to break up easily into fine
particles that float in the air. When a person inhales these airborne asbestos
particles, they stick inside the linings of the lungs leading to cell damage
and even lung cancer as they are recognized carsinogens.
Radon
Radon, a gas that is emitted naturally by the soil and
rocks, can damage the lungs, which may lead to lung cancer. Poor ventilation in
modern house enable radon to flow inside the house causing harm to those who
dwell in them.
How to control it...
There are two ways to control indoor air pollutants… you can
keep them out of the house in the first place or you can remove them once
they’re there. Keeping pollutants out of the home or office may not be feasible
or possible as it would mean severe restrictions on mobility within and out of
such places. That is why the second option of removing air pollutants within
the home or office is the most ideal to protect the health of you and your
loved ones.