Air pollution is believed to trigger or contribute to a range of health issues. The impact of air pollution on someone’s health can range from breathing problems to serious cardiovascular issues, like stroke and heart disease.
Particles and gases that can be harmful to the air are derived from many sources, such as the exhaust fumes of vehicles or burning gas or coal, as well as tobacco smoke.
There are many ways to minimize the negative effects of pollutants on our health, including avoiding areas that have high traffic. However, significant changes depend on improvement in the quality of air globally.
The article will discuss how air pollution could affect the health of a person.
What’s air pollution?
Air pollution is made up of microscopic particles that are either artificial or from nature.
The variety of pollutants that can be found makes it possible for air pollution to cause harm to people both outside as well as indoors.
Outdoor air pollution is comprised of:
- the coal from which they burn, and gas
- dangerous gases, like sulfur dioxide or nitrogen oxides
- Smoke from tobacco
- ground-level ozone
Indoor air pollution comprises of:
- household chemicals for the home
- dangerous gases, like carbon monoxide and radon.
- building materials, for instance, asbestos or lead
- pollen
- mold
- Smoke from tobacco
Based on the World Health Organization (WHO), the most harmful pollutants that are the greatest risk for a person’s health are:
- Particulate matter (particle pollutants) comprises suspended solids as well as liquid droplets
- nitrogen dioxide
- sulfur dioxide
- ozone
Short-term condition exposure
Exposure to air pollution for a short period, like ground-level ozone, may affect the respiratory system since the largest Trusted Source of pollutants enters the body through the airways.
Exposure to air pollution for a short period could cause respiratory infections and a decrease in lung function. This can also worsen asthma for those with the condition.
Inhaling sulfur dioxide could cause irritation to the respiratory tract and eyes, in addition to irritating the skin.
Long-term exposure to circumstances
The research into long-term health issues that air pollution may cause is ongoing. Studies have connected air pollution to grave health issues, negative birth outcomes, as well as premature death.
Long-term obstructive lung disease
Exposure to particles of pollution could cause chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD). According to the WHO, air pollution is responsible for 43% of the cases of COPD and deaths around the world.
COPD is a set of conditions that can cause breathing problems, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. These illnesses block airways, making it difficult for someone to breathe.
It is not possible to cure COPD. However, treatment may aid in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Cancer of the lung
As per the WHO, Air pollution is the cause of 29% of the Trusted Sources for lung cancer cases and deaths.
Particle pollution is likely to play a role in this percentage. Sources of trust are sources because their dimensions allow them to enter the lower respiratory tract.
Heart-related disorders
Research suggests that living in an area that has more air pollution can raise the risk of dying from stroke. The air pollution can cause heart attacks and strokes.
A 2018 study by Trusted Source notes that the Global Burden of Disease Study found that air pollution was at the root of 19% of deaths from cardiovascular disease in 2015. It was also the cause of approximately 22 percent of deaths related to stroke, and 24% who deaths resulting from coronary heart diseases.
Delivery before due
According to research published within the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, exposure to air pollution can cause pregnant women to be less susceptible, Trusted Source, to experience preterm birth.
Researchers found that the risk of premature birth was reduced with a decrease in exposure.
Specific contaminants’ effects on health
According to studies conducted by the International Agency for Research on Cancer Trusted Source The Trusted Source for Research on Cancer, outdoor air pollution is a carcinogen, which means that it could cause cancer.
The air that is polluted contains distinct chemical and particle particles, each with an impact on health in different ways.
Pollutant particles
Particle pollution is the combination of various particles found in the air.
Because of the tiny dimensions of these particles they are able to reach the lungs, increasing the risk of developing lung and heart diseases.
They can also lead to the worsening of symptoms for those who suffer from asthma.
Ozone at ground level
The sun’s rays interact with pollutants to produce ground-level ozone. Smog is primarily composed of ozone. It is the primary trigger for asthma-related symptoms.
The poison carbon monoxide
According to a report from 2016 by the Trusted Source, if the concentrations of carbon monoxide are less than 2%, this gas doesn’t appear to have an effect on a person’s health.
If the levels are greater than 40%, the carbon monoxide can be fatal.
The signs of carbon monoxide poisoning can be:
- weaknesses
- dizziness
- chest pain
- vomiting
- confusion
- A headache
If someone suspects they may be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, they should move to a location that is clean and fresh air and seek medical assistance immediately.
The sulfur dioxide
Sulfur dioxide is one of the byproducts of the combustion of fossil fuels, including coal and oil.
It could cause irritation to the eyes and make people more prone to developing respiratory tract infections and cardiovascular diseases.
The nitrogen dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide can be found in the exhaust of vehicles. Kerosene heaters, gas, and stoves also generate large quantities of this type of gas.
The exposure to nitrogen dioxide could cause respiratory illnesses. In most cases, breathing nitrogen dioxide can cause wheezing or coughing. However, it could cause headaches as well as chest pain, throat irritation, and fever.
How can we lessen our exposure?
It is possible to limit exposure to air pollution by restricting the time they spend in places with bad air quality. It is essential for people to know about the potential air pollution both outdoors and inside.
Air pollution outside
Businesses, governments as well and individuals can aid in reducing air pollution. The reduction of emissions from automobiles and the amount of pollution in the air can enhance the quality of the air.
One can also determine the quality of air through airquality.com. AirNow website. This service of the government is responsible for monitoring air quality throughout the United States.
The site offers information about the level of pollution in the air, which is colored in accordance with its potential impact on health. When the score is above or orange, the public can take steps to ensure their health by following:
- Avoiding walking beside busy roads
- exercise for a shorter period of time or in an indoor space instead
- Staying indoors until the quality of air improves
Pollution of indoor air
One can cut down on indoor air pollution by making sure that buildings are maintained and well ventilated.
Mold, dust, and pollen all increase the risk of respiratory illnesses.
Radon gas can accumulate in the homes of developers who built on land with uranium deposits. Radon gas may be the cause of lung cancer.
The homeowner can determine the presence of radon in their home using a Radon test kit. Alternately, they can employ an expert to conduct the test for them.
Radon test kits are available for purchase at stores or on the internet.
One can utilize carbon monoxide detectors to monitor carbon monoxide levels at the workplace or at home.
Carbon monoxide detectors can be found in retail stores or on the internet.
An overview
Air pollution is harmful to a person’s health. It can cause respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
One can lower the chance of suffering from health issues by monitoring the quality of the air in their area and recognizing any health issues that may be present.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal. If someone believes that they may be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, they must go outside and get medical assistance immediately.