Impact of Air Pollution on Your Health

Sadly, air pollution impacts everyone. The short-term effects of air pollution on your health include irritation in the eyes, nose and throat, coughing, sneezing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure can cause permanent respiratory and health problems. Children, the elderly, and those with existing respiratory and heart conditions are most impacted.

The World Health Organization estimates that air pollution causes millions of premature deaths every year, due largely to increased mortality from health problems linked to air pollution exposure. Health problems caused and exacerbated by air pollution include:

  • Asthma
  • Chronic bronchitis
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  • Heart disease
  • Lung cancer
  • Pneumonia
  • Respiratory illnesses and infections
  • Stroke
Woman wearing mask to combat the pollution in the air.

Air Quality and Your Home’s Air

Research shows that the air quality in our homes and businesses is often more seriously polluted than our outdoor air — even in Utah during a high pollution day. Your home’s air quality can deteriorate from air pollutants from both indoor and outdoor sources. Homes are at a higher risk of poor indoor air quality during wildfire season, especially those located near major roads and transportation routes. As air pollution in Utah increases, your home’s air quality is at risk as well.

Home sensor test showing that the air quality is good

Infiltration

Infiltration of your home’s air by outdoor air pollutants happens when outside air enters unintentionally through doors, windows, or cracks in the structure due to pressure or temperature differences. If there is not a good source of ventilation in your home, pollutants will build up and linger inside for longer periods of time.

Air Testing Services from Bull Matrix

Many ask when air quality will improve in Utah. Though residents get a seasonal reprieve in fall and spring, the overall risk of air pollution is on the rise in Utah. However, indoor air pollution is something you can treat. If you are a homeowner or business owner, it is vital to get yearly checkups to evaluate your home or business for air quality.

Air testing service performed by Bull Matrix