Ask Dr. Khare: A few facts about pollution

Dr. Geeta Khare is a specialist in internal medicine and allergy/ immunology and is the past president of the Bays Society. Reach her at www.panamacityallergy.com 
    What is air pollution?
    Air pollution is a mixture of particles and gases in the ambient air that have been associated with adverse health effects.
    Can pollution cause asthma?
    It is unclear if pollution actually causes asthma. However, air pollution can definitely worsen asthma. In fact, respiratory deaths have been linked to pollution and air quality.
    If I have asthma, should I stay indoors to get away from pollution?
    The answer is definitely “no.” Though outdoor air pollution is a big problem in major urban centers that are exposed to large quantities of fossil fuel combustion, most Americans also are significantly affected by indoor pollution.
    What is indoor pollution?
    In addition to household chemicals and tobacco smoke, indoor allergens such as pets, dust mites, and molds can make asthma worse.
    Also, with energy-efficient homes and wall to wall carpeting, we often have very high exposures to these pollutants.
    What are some other health effects of pollution?
    There are many potential pollutants. In fact there are too many to list. However, there are six pollutants about which we know a little more.
    • Ozone: Effects include reduction in lung function, respiratory inflammation
    • Sulfur dioxide: respiratory problems, contributes to acid rain.
    • Carbon monoxide: visual impairment, neurologic problems, reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.
    • Nitrogen dioxide: it contributes to ozone production, acid rain and reduction of the amount of oxygen in water.
    • Lead: anemia, kidney disease, reproductive disorders, neurological impairments, and possibly Osteoporosis.
    • Particulate matter: Respiratory problems.
    What can I do to protect myself against pollution?
    • Get your water tested for lead and make sure you have lead free paint in your home.
    • If you live in a major urban area, you might want to stay indoors on “Pollution Alert” days.
    • Talk to your allergist about how to reduce the amount of indoor allergens in the home.
    • Keep your filters on your heating/cooling system clean.
    •Consider using a HEPA filter.
    • Consider keeping indoor flowering/ornamental plants in the home.