Respiratory Symptoms of Sick Building Syndrome

This paper describes the respiratory symptoms of sick building syndrome, an illness caused by poor air quality.

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a term used to describe a variety of illnesses that can be caused by exposure to unhealthy and polluted indoor air. The most common symptom of Sick Building Syndrome is difficulty breathing, although it can also cause headaches, eye irritation, fatigue, and other problems.

The main causes of SBS are improperly-ventilated rooms with inadequate fresh air supply, dust mites or mold in the ventilation system, high carbon dioxide levels due to poor circulation of outdoor air, and/or chemical contaminants from cleaning supplies or other sources.

Respiratory symptoms associated with SBS include wheezing or shortness of breath, chest tightness or congestion, an itchy throat, and/or coughing. These symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the type and level of exposure to pollutants and indoor air quality.

To reduce the risk of developing SBS-related respiratory symptoms, it is important to ensure that buildings have adequate ventilation and fresh air supply. Regularly cleaning HVAC systems can also help remove dust mites, mold or other contaminants that could be causing symptoms. In addition, avoiding strong chemical cleaning products in closed rooms can help reduce your exposure to VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

By following these steps and taking proper care of indoor air quality, you can lower your risk for developing Sick Building Syndrome and its associated respiratory symptoms. If you think you are suffering from SBS-related respiratory symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Sick Building Syndrome can be a serious condition, so taking steps to ensure good indoor air quality is essential for healthy living. With the right precautions, you can prevent Sick Building Syndrome and its associated respiratory symptoms.

References:

1. National Library of Medicine: What Is Sick Building Syndrome? https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000845.htm

2. Healthline: Everything You Need to Know About Sick Building Syndrome https://www.healthline.com/health/sick