How to Conduct an Air Quality Audit at Home Based on a Pulmonologist's Advice

Understanding the Air Quality Index (AQI) and Its Impact on Health

Air pollution is now a serious global issue, affecting millions of people worldwide daily. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), around 99% of the world’s population breathes air that exceeds safe pollution levels ^1.

Here are key considerations regarding the air quality index and its impact on health.

• A lower AQI (0-50) indicates good indoor air quality​ with minimal or no health risks. On the other hand, a higher AQI of (301-500) denotes hazardous conditions causing serious health issues.
• Elevated AQI levels, especially from pollutants such as PM2.5 and ozone, lead to respiratory distress and chronic respiratory illness.
• Children and the elderly with pre-existing lung conditions are susceptible to adverse effects from poor air quality.
• AQI is typically used to understand outdoor air quality; however, it is also relevant to indoor conditions. Indoor air pollutants like VOCs and humidity affect good air quality.
• Individuals with lung infections, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), should limit outdoor activities to protect their overall lung health.

Let’s now understand why an air quality monitor is essential for better lung health and why good air quality is important.

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters for Your Lung Health

Indoor air quality is an essential metric for lung health. Poor indoor air quality adversely affects respiratory function. Prominent sources of indoor pollution include dust, pet dander, tobacco smoke, and household chemicals.

Here are some of the key considerations for indoor air quality and lung health:

• Unlike outdoor air, which is moving and can dilute pollutants, indoor spaces trap pollutants rapidly and concentrate pollutants, leading to higher exposure levels.
• Particulate matter (PM2.5), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and formaldehyde from furniture or cleaning products are all known to contribute to poor IAQ and respiratory issues.
• Continuous exposure to indoor pollutants can worsen pre-existing conditions such as asthma and COPD. Over time, contributes to the development of respiratory problems, especially in children and the elderly.
• Appropriate ventilation helps reduce indoor air pollution by allowing fresh air to circulate, diluting harmful pollutants, and preventing the accumulation of CO₂.

Next, let’s understand how the air quality index affects various health outcomes.

How the Air Quality Index Affects Different Aspects of Health

Air pollution contains harmful gases and particles, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and other gaseous compounds.

Here’s how bad the air quality standards affect different health aspects:

• Respiratory System: The most immediate impact on air quality is on the lungs; pollutants can trigger inflammation and irritation, worsening chronic conditions such as asthma and bronchitis.
• Cardiovascular System: Polluted air enters the lungs, then enters the bloodstream, affecting overall heart health. Fine particulate matter can clog the airways, increase blood pressure, and increase the risk of a heart attack.
• Immune System: Long-term exposure to pollutants weakens the immune system, making it more susceptible to infections. High levels of air pollution increase the chances of respiratory diseases, autoimmune disorders, and flu.
• Cognitive Function: Air pollution is linked with mental health concerns, which include stress and anxiety. Air pollutants contribute to neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Now, let’s isolate some of the common pollutants that affect the air quality of your home.

Identifying Common Pollutants in Your Home and Their Sources

Indoor air pollutants arise from several sources, many of which are often invisible or unnoticed until they cause health issues. Identifying and understanding these pollutants is the first step in improving indoor air quality and protecting your lung health.

Here are some of the common pollutants that are found in most homes:

• Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10): These fine particles can come from outdoor air, cooking, burning candles, or fireplaces. They are small enough to be inhaled deeply into the lungs, which can contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Released from paints, cleaning products, furniture, and carpeting, VOCs can irritate the eyes, throat, and lungs. Common VOCs include formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene, which also contribute to chronic respiratory problems.
• Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): High levels of CO₂ are often found in poorly ventilated areas. Elevated CO₂ can cause dizziness and shortness of breath.
• Carbon Monoxide (CO): This colourless, odourless gas is produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels such as gas stoves, furnaces, or fireplaces. High CO levels can cause headaches, dizziness, and even suffocation in extreme cases.

Let’s now explore some of the common tips to maintain optimal lung health.

Tips for Maintaining Optimal Lung Health Through Better Air Quality

A recent study conducted in India found that a 10 µg/m³ increase in ambient PM2.5 exposure was associated with an 8.6% increase in all-cause mortality ². The data highlights the critical link between air quality and lung health.

Here are some of the health-focused tips for better lung health and air quality:

• Ensure Proper Ventilation: Regularly ventilate your home, especially after cooking or cleaning, to remove harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide, cooking fumes, and moisture. This reduces respiratory irritation and the risk of lung disease.
• Use a HEPA Air Purifier: In cities with high levels of particulate matter (PM2.5), an air purifier with a HEPA filter can help reduce airborne allergens and fine particles that can irritate the lungs and aggravate conditions like asthma and COPD.
• Avoid Indoor Smoking and VOC Emissions: Smoking indoors introduces harmful chemicals that can severely damage the lungs over time. Likewise, avoid products with high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as certain paints, which can cause respiratory issues and exacerbate allergies.
• Control Humidity and Prevent Mould: High humidity levels promote mould growth, which can cause respiratory distress and trigger asthma attacks.
• Regular Cleaning and Dust Control: Dust accumulation and pet dander can irritate the respiratory system. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter and clean surfaces regularly to reduce exposure to these allergens, promoting a cleaner and healthier breathing environment.

Also read: Unmasking the Hidden Heart Attack Threat.

When Should You Consult a Pulmonologist?

If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms such as shortness of breath, a chronic cough, or wheezing, it’s crucial to consult a pulmonologist for diagnosis. A pulmonologist specialises in lung health and can offer targeted care for conditions such as asthma, COPD, and infections. To find the proper care, searching for a pulmonologist near me can help you connect with an expert who can provide the treatment necessary to improve your lung health.

For those in Kolkata, Eskag Sanjeevani is home to some of the best pulmonologists, offering comprehensive care to manage and treat respiratory conditions effectively.