It’s an established fact and one that has been acknowledged by many that indoor pollution is a serious threat to public health. It is also known that Canadian spendmost of their time indoors. Therefore, indoor allergens and irritants can play a significant role in triggering asthma attacks, among other health issues.
And don’t be surprised, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) indoor air pollution is the 8th most important risk factor and responsible for 2.7% of the global burden of disease – from pneumonia, chronic respiratory disease and lung cancer to migraines, and debilitating headaches.
What are some of those triggers?
Second Hand Smoke
Second hand smoke is a mixture of smoke from the burning end of a cigarette, pipe or cigar and the smoke exhaled by the smoker that is often found in homes and cars where smoking is allowed.
Dust Mites
Dust mites are too small to be seen, but can be found in almost every home in mattresses and bedding materials, carpets, upholstered furniture, stuffed toys and curtains.
Mold
Mold can grow indoors when mold spores land on wet or damp surfaces. In the home, mold is most commonly found in the bathroom, kitchen and basement.
Cockroaches and other Pests
Cockroach body parts, secretions and droppings and the urine, droppings and saliva of pests such as rodents are often found in areas where food and water are present.
Warm-Blooded Pets such as Cats and Dogs
Pets’ skin flakes, urine and saliva can be found in homes where pets are allowed inside
Nitrogen Dioxide
Nitrogen Dioxide is an odourless gas that can be a byproduct of indoor fuel burning appliances such as gas stoves, gas or oil furnaces, fireplaces, wood stoves and unvented kerosene or gas space heaters.