• Degrades health and energy levels
• Contributes to or causes allergies
• Exacerbates existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma |
• Affects student absenteeism, illness and poor academic performance
• Contributes to employee absenteeism and reduced productivity
• Affects your moods and enjoyment of life |
Causes of poor IAQ can be divided into man-made and natural categories. Luckily, we can do something about both.
Among the man-made problems are harsh chemicals that we bring into our homes and offices, such as cleaning chemicals, artificial fragrances and insecticidal
poisons. These sources of indoor pollution can be alleviated simply by switching to greener, non-toxic choices of cleaners and insect-control (Ozone shock
treatment does kill bed bugs, dust mites, cockroaches, ants, fleas and rodents.) Artificial fragrances often have a surprising amount of chemicals in
 them to achieve that "natural" smell. Better to use truly natural scents with real plant-derived aromas — also, ozone treatments remove the source of odors naturally. Solvents, glues, and paints contribute to harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in both industrial and home environments. Use low or no VOC alternatives when possible, ventilate properly and store outside of the house if possible.
Among the natural, biological problems are mold and mildew that grow in damp areas, stored papers, books and clothing, dust collection and microorganism growth in carpets and furnishings and from poor building ventilation. Indoor environments can be thriving places for bacteria, viruses, bed bugs, dust mites, cockroaches, ants,termites, fleas and rodents. The contaminants from all these sources are commonly organized into 3 categories - particulate, gases (VOCs) and bioaerosols (bacteria, viruses and fungi). The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) created a pie chart to show how these 3 groups contribute to the degradation of your health — particularly respiratory ailments such as allergies and asthma.
All these ill affects can add up to a condition known as sick building syndrome. A building considered 'sick' when 20 percent or more of the occupants have the same symptoms for two weeks or more, and affected individuals experience quick relief away from the 'sick' building.
There are five main SBS symptoms. They can occur singly or in combination and may occur in random episodes or in cycles. These symptoms frequently resemble the common cold or other respiratory problems, and they lessen or vanish completely when away from the home for a period of time.
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- Eye Irritation
Eyes are dry, burning, gritty feeling but with no signs of inflammation. The level of
sensitivity may vary from day to day. People who wear contact lenses are apt to be more
severely affected.
- Nasal Problems
Congestion or 'stuffiness' is the most comment complaint and usually develops quickly when
the occupant enters the building and continues until he or she leaves the building. Relief
generally follows quickly upon departure.
- Throat & Lower Respiratory Tract Issues
Continual dryness in the throat without inflammation is a standard symptom. Shortness of
breath that is unrelated to asthma or any lung infection may indicate a problem with the lower
respiratory track.
- Headaches, Fatigue & General Malaise
Headaches, headache related fatigue, dizziness, trouble concentrating and general malaise are
the most common symptoms of SBS. The headaches can vary from moderate to severe
migraines.
- Skin Problems
Dry skin may be caused by SBS due to an excess of air movement or very warm, dry air.
Some occupants may develop skin irritation or rashes due to airborne contaminants. SBS can
also exacerbate pre-existing conditions such as eczema.
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The great news is, many, if not all, of these problems can by solved by AZ Healthy Home. First, we find the sources of your home's irritants with mold and infrared thermal imaging inspections. Then we clean out microorganisms, molds and odors with ozone shock treatments, and protect against future intrusions with advanced air filters and maintain your clean environment with patented Air Gorilla® Air Purification. As well, a maintenance program of filter cleaning and intermittent ozone treatments can help you create a healthy, happy, home.
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