Air Quality Archives - Page 2 of 2 - Active Healthcare

Put Down that Perfume! An Asthmatic Will Thank You

Lisa Feierstein Allergies, Asthma, Breathe EZ 1

Have you ever experienced sensory overload? You may be able to recall a moment when a stranger walked by and your nose scrunched up in response to their overpowering perfume. Or maybe you had to leave a cosmetics store because the scented lotions and perfumes were too strong. For some, a strong scent can be more than an annoyance. It can cause headaches, dizziness, sneezing, wheezing and difficulty breathing, or even hives.

Asthmatics with a fragrance sensitivity react to strong scents in a similar way that they would react to allergens. Strong fragrances can act as irritants that worsen asthma symptoms and make it difficult to breathe. Perfumes aren’t the only culprits; detergents, soaps, candles and cleaning products can also trigger a reaction. Identifying which scents are “safe” can take a little trial and error. Start by trying unscented or fragrance-free cleaning and cosmetic products. If you notice that a coworker wears a perfume that causes you to sneeze, wheeze, or run for cover, talk to your supervisor about educating the office on fragrance sensitivities. An air purifier or fan could also help lessen the scent. If all else fails, see if you can move to a different space in the office or alter your work schedule so you spend less time in contact with the problematic perfume.


How Asthmatics Can Manage Indoor Air Quality in the Winter

Lisa Feierstein Allergies, Asthma, Breathe EZ Leave a comment  

North Carolina has famously high humidity levels and high humidity can lead to mold, mildew and dust mites in the home. High humidity can also make breathing more difficult for those with allergies. The drier, less humid winter months bring a new set of challenges for managing asthma symptoms affected by indoor air quality.

Year round, the target humidity level indoors is 35 to 55 percent. It may seem intuitive to counteract the drier air by using humidifiers, but that can create condensation and mold in days when the temperature dips below 30 degrees. While high humidity can cause mold, low humidity can make the house feel too cold and you’ll be inclined to increase the heat. Low humidity can also dry out hard wood floors and building materials. If you notice growing gaps in floorboards, that could be a sign of low humidity levels.

The first step to managing indoor humidity levels is to monitor these levels either with a portable weather station or the controls on your HVAC system. Newer thermostats, like Sensi, provide humidity readings and thermostat schedules that can be adjusted through a smartphone app. Your HVAC system or portable weather station may provide both indoor and outdoor readings to help you make comparisons. By monitoring and comparing humidity levels, you’ll have a better starting point for deciding whether or not to add or reduce humidity levels in the home. Finding the right humidity level is an important step in helping you breathe easier indoors, especially if you have asthma or allergies. For additional help managing humidity and indoor air quality, contact your HVAC technician or an indoor air quality specialist.


How Asthmatics Can Breathe Easy Over the Holidays

Lisa Feierstein Asthma, Breathe EZ Leave a comment  

Both the changing seasons and Holiday traditions can pose challenges for asthmatics, but there are a few small adjustments you can make to breathe easy during the Holidays.

Mold is an asthma trigger to watch out for in the winter. Wet leaves and fireplace logs are two common offenders for generating mold. To reduce your contact with mold, keep wet leaves away from your home’s foundation, windows and doors. Leave logs outside until you need them to reduce the amount of mold that takes up residence indoors.

Scented Holiday candles, air fresheners, and live Christmas trees can also be asthma triggers. An artificial tree is a great alternative to a live tree, but if live trees are a tradition, you can make a few adjustments to avoid an asthma attack. When you’re tree shopping, avoid purchasing a tree that has a yellow dusting of pollen. Once you bring the tree home, wipe the trunk with a diluted bleach and water solution (20 parts water to one part bleach) to get rid of mold.

When you venture outside, layer up to prevent an attack brought on by cold air entering your lungs. Cover your nose and mouth with a scarf for an extra barrier against the cold.

For more on managing indoor air quality, keeping humidity levels in check, and how to filter particulates, check out our post on indoor air quality.


How E-Cigarrettes are Making Your Asthma Worse

Lisa Feierstein Asthma, Breathe EZ Leave a comment  

Double Threat of Vaping: Popcorn LungCigarettes used to be marketed as a trendy and cool, but they’re increasingly being replaced by e-cigarettes. The CDC found that over 263,000 teens who had never smoked a cigarette before tried e-cigarettes in 2013, which is three times the amount of teens trying e-cigarettes in 2011. Since there’s no tar in e-cigarettes, some consumers believe that e-cigarettes are a healthier alternative to regular cigarettes, but this isn’t entirely true.

Most e-cigarettes do contain nicotine, which can cause inflammation in the lungs. Particles in the vapor and flavoring in the e-cigarettes can also irritate the lungs, which is a recipe for trouble for those with asthma. These factors can exacerbate asthma symptoms and potentially bring on an asthma attack.


Proactive Legislation Improves Air Quality in NC

Lisa Feierstein Asthma, Breathe EZ Leave a comment  

Air quality is easy to take for granted until we experience first-hand the effects of poor air quality. You can probably relate to driving with the windows down to let in the crisp, fall air, but that enjoyment abruptly ends when the exhaust of another vehicle wafts through your car. Fortunately, North Carolina is ahead of the curve on improving air quality, which is especially important for asthmatics.

Triangle Air Awareness, a public-private partnership between the North Carolina Division of Air Quality and the Research Triangle Regional Partnership, hosted their End of Ozone Forecast Season Luncheon last Friday to give the audience a snapshot of the state of North Carolina’s air quality. Speaker Sushma Masemore, PE, Division of Air Quality at the Department of Natural Resources, explained that the Research Triangle Region is meeting federal air quality standards. Masemore said that the NC legislature was ahead of the curve by enacting the Clean Smokestacks Act in 2002, which was an early action state mandate to control air pollution from coal-fired power plants.

Air quality has an effect on a variety of illness, like acute bronchitis, explained keynote speaker Dr. Kim Lyerly, professor of Surgery, assistant professor in Immunology, associate professor of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine. Thanks to the Clean Smokestacks Act, Dr. Lyerly and his research team found a reduction in death rates for emphysema, asthma and pneumonia in NC. The research team, which published their findings in the International Journal of COPD, discovered a tight association between a reduction in pollutants and improvement in death rates related to air quality.

“The take home message for us is that we had such a forward thinking state…that they strictly adhered to a policy that reduced emissions in NC,” said Dr. Lyerly.

We will likely see even higher EPA standards in the future, but based on the proactive CSA, NC is up to the challenge.


Don’t Sneeze Your Way Through the State Fair

Lisa Feierstein Allergies, Asthma, Breathe EZ Leave a comment  

Every fall there’s a veritable buzz about the North Carolina State Fair. Folks want to know which foods will be fried, which rides are the most exciting, and which local bakers can come up with the best pie. As you dig into a turkey leg and hit the rollercoasters, keep a few of these health tips in mind so your State Fair experience will be both fun and safe.

The petting zoo is a big attraction for children and families, but it can trigger a reaction for those with allergies and asthma. Animal dander can exacerbate asthma symptoms, so if you know you have an animal allergy, you may want to avoid the petting zoo. Parents of children with asthma should bring the appropriate medications in case their child has an allergy to animals that they’re not yet aware of.

In addition to irritants like animal dander, petting zoo animals can carry bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. Fairgoers should also be diligent about washing their hands after visiting the petting zoo; especially if they plan on eating afterward. Visitors should avoid eating or drinking while walking through the petting zoo.

Fairgoers will also be exposed to thousands of other people that may present health risks. Plus, it’s hard to say if those other visitors are being diligent about hand washing. Pack hand sanitizer, any necessary allergy and asthma medications, and ask fair employees where hand-washing stations are located. By taking just a few simple precautions, you’re on your way to an exciting and safe time at the NC State Fair.


Sick Building Syndrome: Is Your Office Building Making You Wheeze?

Lisa Feierstein Asthma, Breathe EZ Leave a comment  

Six sneezing people smSneezing, itchy eyes and nose…these symptoms sound like allergies, but they could be an indicator of sick building syndrome (SBS). If you have a frequent dry cough and often sneeze at work, it might not be a result of your asthma or allergies. Sick building syndrome (SBS) occurs when employees have acute health problems that are linked to the building, and not a specific illness.

The best way to identify if you’re experiencing SBS is to first take a mental or written note of your symptoms. In addition to itchy eyes, nose, or throat irritation; are you experiencing dizziness or nausea? Is there a certain room in the office in which you sneeze more frequently? Do these symptoms only occur or increase when you’re in the office?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, talk to your employer or the property manager about assessing the air quality in the building. Without proper ventilation and air filtration, you could be exposed to high levels of indoor air pollution caused by building materials and furniture that emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Mold and bacteria are additional irritants. If you have asthma, SBS can exacerbate your symptoms, so share your concern with your employer if you suspect SBS is a problem in your building.


What Asthmatics Should Know about Ozone Forecast Season

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Ozone: Photo from Pexels.

Photo from Pexels.

Before heading out into the sunshine, we know to lather up with sunscreen and pack plenty of water. But another important step is to check the ozone forecast; this is especially important for children, the elderly, those with respiratory diseases or heart disease, and asthmatics.

Ground-level Ozone

There are two types of ozone, but ground-level ozone is the one you should be concerned about. Ozone occurs naturally in the stratosphere, but ground-level ozone is created when nitrogen oxide (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) chemically react in the sunlight. Ground-level ozone comes from sources like cars and smokestacks.

Ozone Forecast

Ground-level ozone can exacerbate asthma symptoms, but asthmatics can monitor the ozone forecast each day to know if it’s OK to participate in outdoor activities. Elaine Loyack is the program coordinator for Triangle Air Awareness, an organization that helps Triangle-area residents and businesses stay informed about and help improve local air quality. Each summer, she reminds folks about the importance of keeping tabs on the local ozone forecast and to plan their outdoor activity level accordingly.

“Ozone forecast season is the time of the year when the risk for unhealthy levels of ground-level ozone formation is highest,” says Elaine. “In North Carolina, ozone forecast season runs from April 1-October 31.”

What the Ozone Forecast Means for Asthmatics

On unhealthy air quality days, asthmatics should limit time outdoors to the morning and early to late evening. Severe asthma sufferers should avoid the outdoors completely. Asthmatics should also reduce their level of activity, so if you normally run outside, choose a walk instead.

  • Code Yellow (Moderate)–dangerous for those suffering extreme asthma.
  • Code Orange (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups), Code Red (Unhealthy), and Code Purple (Very Unhealthy)–dangerous for all asthma sufferers.

 

Ozone Forecast Resources

Asthmatics can monitor ozone levels by email, phone, the Internet, social media, and through a mobile app. Each day at 3pm, the ozone forecast is published for the following day so folks can plan ahead. Click here to sign up to receive the ozone forecast.


Part II: How to Lessen Asthma Symptoms by Addressing Indoor Air Quality

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Part I: How to Lessen Asthma Symptoms by Addressing Indoor Air Quality, I explained how improving indoor air quality with the right air filters is key to managing asthma symptoms. In Part II of this series, you’ll learn how to manage indoor humidity levels to prevent mold growth.

Checking  Humidity Levels

Air filters are great at capturing particulates that can exacerbate asthma symptoms, but asthmatics can also be sensitive to heat and humidity. Since high humidity can encourage mold growth, it’s best to maintain 30-50 percent (% RH) humidity levels year-round. Humidity levels are higher at night and first thing in the morning during the summer, so leaving the windows open at night can actually raise the humidity levels in your home. It’s best to leave windows closed in the summer unless the outdoor RH is about 50 percent.

Smart Thermostats

Some thermostats, like Sensi from Emerson Climate Technologies, will tell you your home’s humidity level both on the thermostat and through the companion smartphone app. Although use of air conditioning can help with dehumidification, there are times when it may not be sufficient and a whole-home dehumidifier will help close the gap.

Bath and Kitchen Fans

Kitchen and bath fans are also important for keeping humidity in check. Today’s modern fans are equipped with automation and controls to run the fan at the most optimal times. Controls or use methods can also be adapted to older installations. Be sure to run your bath fan for a half hour after taking a shower.

If you’re unsure about the humidity levels in your home, consult with your trusted HVAC technician or an indoor air quality specialist. They can help you determine if your current fans, thermostat and air conditioning unit are working efficiently or if there is a benefit to install new equipment.


Part I: How to Lessen Asthma Symptoms by Addressing Indoor Air Quality

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Vacuuming with a HEPA vacuum cleaner, dusting, and regularly changing bedding are all important steps to take care of allergens in your home. Asthma sufferers should also frequently change return air filters in their HVAC system to capture particulates; monitoring humidity levels in the home to manage mold is also beneficial.

Selecting the Right Air Filter

There are a few key components to look for in an air filter to make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck. Peter Kusterer, of Air Comfort for Homes, which specializes in indoor air quality (IAQ), recommends better performing 1″ traditional filters designed with low pressure drop (LPD) for your system. Select a pleated filter with a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) of 8, or better. Aprilaire and Honeywell are two brands that manufacture whole-home media air filters with a minimum MERV 11 rating that require less frequent replacement; in some cases, only once a year.

If you’re still experiencing discomfort after cleaning your home and changing your air filters, consider installing a whole-home media air cleaner that attaches to your HVAC system. Unlike a more traditional 1″ filter, a whole-home media air filter  cleans the air across a greater surface area. You can also move up to an electronic media air cleaner for an even higher MERV rating and efficiency. These filters will seem more expensive when compared to the traditional 1″ filter. Consult with your trusted HVAC technician or an indoor air quality specialist to determine if there is a benefit for you to install a whole-home media air cleaner.

Changing the Air Filter

Traditional 1″ filters will capture larger particulates and should be changed every 30 days. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation of when to change the air filter.  When air filters aren’t changed regularly, your HVAC system has to work harder since particulate matter has built up on the filter and may restrict airflow. Set a reminder on your smartphone or calendar so you can easily remember when it’s time to change the air filter. Another quick tip is to write the “change by” date on the filter itself. Also consider running your system with just the fan on during high pollen count periods or when you have guests over. Using the fan, only, requires only the blower motor to capture particulates and can save energy when compared to running heating or cooling; you also capture airborne particulate that may have otherwise settled and is no longer capable of being trapped by the filter.

 In Part II of this series, I’ll explain how humidity levels can be monitored and managed to lessen asthma symptoms.


Tis’ the Season for Allergies and Asthma Triggers

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A season normally filled with joy can turn miserable quickly. Seasonal allergic rhinitis and asthma sufferers can breathe relief as most outdoor allergens disappear until spring, but holiday gatherings and increased time spent indoors means more exposure to different allergen triggers. In an effort to help you avoid the hazards of the holidays, we’ve compiled some tips to keep you from wheezing and sneezing.
 
Oh, Christmas tree: It’s not just the live trees that can trigger symptoms; the artificial variety can, too! To avoid allergic triggers use a leaf blower to blow any pollen, mold spores or terpene on the tree. You can also wash the tree off with a garden hose. Letting the tree sit to dry in an open place like your garage will definitely help. For artificial trees, we recommend taking them outside and washing also as they, too, can harbor dust and mold.
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