The indoor air quality relates to the air inside buildings and their structures. Indoor air pollution is known to affect the health of occupants on a short or long-term basis.
Some people are disproportionately affected by pollutants, including children, the elderly, low income, minority, and indigenous communities.
Pollutants that can affect air quality in homes can include, gases or particles from space heaters, dryers, gas stoves and fireplaces that have poor ventilation. Carbon dioxide and nitrogen dioxide are colourless and odourless compounds which are the resultant toxins.
Volatile organic compounds can be found in paints, carpets, personal care products, sealants, cleaning supplies and air fresheners.
Second-hand smoke, pet dander, mould, dust mites and pollen are the most commonly found triggers for allergies.
Some effects may show up immediately after exposure to the pollutant. The symptoms are usually treatable and include fatigue, dizziness, irritation of eyes, ears, nose, and throat and headaches. Illness like asthma may be triggered or become worse with further exposure. Some people may become sensitised to pollutants or repeated high levels of exposure.
Having an adequate supply of outdoor air coming into areas indoors (via a ventilation system) will result in a home that breathes, by moving airflow efficiently.