Health Series #2: How Indoor Air Impacts Our Lungs

and makes Asthma even worse.

Author

Salus Homes
January 16, 2025

Hi there!

Welcome back to Fresh Perspectives, where we explore the invisible world of air and, in this series, how it impacts our health.

Today, we’re diving into something vital: how the air we breathe can affect our lungs—and why it’s especially important for those who suffer from asthma or other breathing issues.

What Happens When We Breathe Dirty Air?

Every time we take a breath, tiny particles and gases in the air travel deep into our lungs. 

While our lungs are incredibly resilient, they’re not invincible. 

Over time, exposure to polluted air causes real damage, from things like:

• Particulate Matter (PM2.5): Microscopic particles from smoke, dust, and vehicle emissions that get stuck in our lungs.

• Ozone: A gas found in polluted cities that irritates the airways.

• Allergens and Mold: These cause inflammation in the lungs and exacerbate asthma or allergies.

When we’re exposed to dirty air regularly, our lungs become irritated and inflamed. 

This can lead to breathing problems, chronic coughs, and for those with asthma, it can be even worse.

How Does Air Pollution Impact Asthma?

If you have asthma, the stakes are even higher. Asthma makes the airways sensitive and more likely to react strongly to irritants. Polluted air can:

1. Trigger Asthma Attacks: Pollutants like PM2.5 and mold can irritate the lungs, causing wheezing and difficulty breathing.

2. Make Symptoms Worse: Exposure to smoke, dust, or chemicals can lead to more frequent flare-ups or a need for stronger medications.

3. Reduce Lung Function Over Time: Chronic exposure to dirty air can lead to long-term lung issues, even in those without asthma.

Children are especially vulnerable, as their lungs are still developing, and they tend to breathe faster, taking in more air—and therefore more pollutants.

What Can You Do to Protect Your Lungs?

While we can’t avoid all air pollution, we can take steps to minimize its impact, especially indoors, where we spend most of our time. Here are a few tips:

• Keep Indoor Air Clean: Use a high-quality air filter, like a Salus filter, to remove pollutants from your home.

• Control Allergens: Clean surfaces regularly to reduce dust and mold, and use allergen-proof covers on mattresses and pillows.

• Be Mindful of Ventilation: If you’re cooking or cleaning inside, turn on a vent or open a window to help clear the air.

• Monitor Outdoor Air Quality: Avoid strenuous outdoor activities when pollution levels are high, especially if you have asthma.

Pro Tip: IQAir AirVisual is a great free app you can use to monitor your local air quality.

At-Home Air Quality Myth Buster

Plants look great—but do they actually filter our indoor air?! While certain plants, like peace lilies and snake plants, have been shown to remove small amounts of toxins in controlled studies, their impact on air quality in typical homes is minimal. For truly fresher air, high-quality air filters, like our SALUS window AC unit filter, are much more effective at removing pollutants. We still love plants, but pair their natural beauty with a proper air filter for the healthiest air.

What’s Next?

We’re just getting started on this journey to better air and better health. 

Next, we’ll explore how the air we breathe affects our sleep and share tips to ensure your home is set up for truly restful nights.

Until then, remember: every small step you take to improve your air adds up to a healthier you.

With fresh perspectives,

Seb & Hall

Co-Founders, Salus Homes

Breathe Better. Live Better. 🌿