Could your house have Toxic Home Syndrome?

Home is where the heart is - but it may also be where the harm is.

It's estimated that a staggering 15.3 million households suffer from what is increasingly recognized as Toxic Home Syndrome, a condition where the occupants' health deteriorates significantly due to poor indoor air quality. This alarming statistic highlights a growing concern regarding the environments in which we live and breathe.

The most common immediate effects of this syndrome manifest as coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, fatigue, dizziness, and persistent headaches. However, a recent comprehensive study has uncovered even more severe consequences associated with exposure to indoor pollutants. These pollutants have been linked to a reduction in life expectancy and the development of serious diseases, including lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, and asthma, which can have lifelong implications for those affected.

Cause for concern

A study backed by the electrotechnical industry body BEAMA has been launched to draw critical attention to the myriad problems caused by poor indoor air quality and to promote the importance of better home ventilation. This initiative is essential, as it emphasizes that a 81% of people are at risk of suffering from respiratory or dermatological conditions due to the poor air quality inside their homes. This statistic serves as a wake-up call to homeowners and renters alike, urging them to take action to improve their living environments.

On average, we spend more than 90% of their time indoors, making indoor air quality a critical aspect of overall health and well-being. Alarmingly, indoor air can be up to 50 times more polluted than outdoor air, containing over 900 different chemicals, particles, and biological materials. This overwhelming presence of pollutants can lead to a range of health issues. In addition to the common effects of inhaling these chemicals, such as sneezing and headaches, there can be more severe and debilitating results. These may include eye irritation, rhinitis, fever or chills, rashes, hearing loss, muscle pain, nosebleeds, and various respiratory problems that can affect individuals of all ages.

Better out than in

Indoor pollutants can be naturally occurring, stemming from sources such as mold spores that thrive in damp spots on walls and window frames, or even from decaying food left unattended. Mold, in particular, is likely to cause more significant health problems in homes that lack adequate ventilation. Disturbingly, 58% of people report having experienced mold or condensation in their homes at some point. This statistic underscores the urgent need for improved ventilation and moisture control in residential spaces.

"Perennial allergens, such as house dust mites and mold within the home, are a major contributor to diseases like asthma, eczema, and rhinitis," says Professor Howarth, a leading authority in allergy and respiratory medicine at Southampton University. His insights highlight the critical nature of indoor air quality and its direct link to chronic health conditions.

"Surveys have shown a high percentage of homes have some evidence of visible mold, particularly in areas like the kitchen or bathroom, where humidity levels are typically at their highest. Additionally, the older the housing, the poorer the damp proof coursing, leading to an increased likelihood of damp problems," he continues. This correlation between housing age and air quality issues emphasizes the need for regular maintenance and monitoring of indoor environments.

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Moreover, the practice of drying wet clothes indoors can inadvertently increase moisture levels in the home, creating an ideal environment for mold growth. This seemingly innocuous habit can have far-reaching consequences for the health of all household members.

Further indoor pollution may arise from various sources, including pollen brought in from outside through open windows or on shoes and clothing, pet dander, or Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) released from common household products.

Chemical nation

VOCs are prevalent in many everyday cleaning products, including air fresheners, carpet cleaners, polishes, and oven cleaners. These chemicals can trigger asthma and other respiratory issues, making their presence in homes a significant concern. "There are varying reports as to whether VOC levels are raised within the home or not," states Professor Howarth, "but certainly, higher levels can give rise to non-specific symptoms such as headaches, stuffiness, itchy skin, and an overall feeling of not being quite right." This statement reflects the subtle yet pervasive impact that everyday household products can have on health.

It's often things that aren't particularly striking—until you remove them and realize you haven't been quite so well indicating that many individuals may not even be aware of the detrimental effects of the pollutants around them.

Certain gases can also contribute to indoor air pollution. Radon, a natural radioactive gas that emanates from soil and rock, can infiltrate homes through cracks and gaps in walls and floors, as well as through the water supply. Additionally, carbon monoxide is another hazardous pollutant that can be found in homes with faulty heating or cooking appliances, and it can accumulate from clogged chimneys and cigarette smoke. The presence of these gases poses significant risks to the health and safety of residents, underscoring the importance of regular inspections and maintenance of heating and ventilation systems.