When people think of air pollution, they often think about the air pollution that occurs outside. Not too many people are aware that there is air pollution inside as well as outside. Indoor air pollution takes place in your home, and it can cause many different problems. Air pollution can be defined as a presence or substance in the air that has hazardous properties.
There are a few common indoor air pollutants that you may be familiar with which include:
- secondhand smoke
- nitrogen dioxide
- asbestos
- carbon monoxide
- mold
- lead particles
- radon
Second Hand Smoke
Secondhand smoke derives from burning tobacco and is fatal to everyone, but more so the to the individuals who breathe the tobacco, not the actual smoker. Secondhand smoke contains over 4,000 different chemical ingredients according to the Environment Assistance of Department of Forsyth County.
Nitrogen Dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide can irritate many different areas of the body which include the nose, throat, eyes, and the respiratory tract. Extreme exposure to nitrogen dioxide can cause lung injury or a liquid build up in the lungs which is referred to as pulmonary edema.
Asbestos
You may have seen the thousands of commercials on television advertising settlement money. Asbestos minerals are found all over the world. Asbestos is natural and not chemically altered.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is an odorless and invisible gas that can become fatal. Carbon monoxide is often referred to as the invisible gas. To prevent carbon monoxide from taking precedence over your home, your heating system needs to be checked at least twice per year.
Mold
Mold is an indoor pollutant that almost everyone is familiar with. Mold is a fungus that can grow indoors and outdoors. Mold can cause an allergic reaction that can include swelling and wheezing. There are forms of mold that are very toxic, and there are forms of mold that are harmless.
Lead Particles
Lead is found naturally in the world, but if it is consumed, it can be lethal and extremely toxic. When it comes to indoor air pollution, lead has the ability to become airborne. Exposure to lead can cause damage to the kidneys, nervous system, and red blood cells.
Radon
Radon, like carbon monoxide, is a gas that is colorless and odorless. Extreme expose to radon can increase the risk of lung cancer.
For more information about indoor air pollution and insurance coverage in Arizona, please contact Aimpro, located in Phoenix.
