Health Series #3: How Air Quality Affects Your Heart

Hi there!

Welcome back to Fresh Perspectives, where we uncover the hidden ways air quality impacts your health. So far, we’ve talked about how air pollution affects your lungs—but did you know the air you breathe also affects your heart?

That’s right—polluted air doesn’t just stay in your lungs. It travels through your bloodstream, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and even strokes.

Let’s break it down.

How Does Air Pollution Affect Your Heart?

Every time you breathe in polluted air, tiny harmful particles called PM2.5 (particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns) enter your lungs. These particles are so small that they can pass into your bloodstream, where they start causing trouble.

Here’s what happens next:

• Inflammation & Stress on the Heart: Polluted air triggers inflammation, making your heart work harder to pump blood.

• Higher Risk of Heart Attacks & Strokes: Long-term exposure to dirty air can cause arteries to narrow, increasing the chance of blood clots.

• Increased Blood Pressure: Pollutants disrupt normal blood flow, leading to high blood pressure—a major risk factor for heart disease.

Did You Know?

Studies have found that people who live in areas with high air pollution are more likely to develop heart disease—regardless of their diet or exercise habits. Even short-term exposure to bad air can raise blood pressure within just 24 hours!

Who Is Most at Risk?

Air pollution affects everyone, but certain groups are more vulnerable, including:

💙 People with pre-existing heart conditions – Air pollution makes symptoms worse.

💙 Older adults – Aging hearts are more sensitive to pollutants.

💙 Athletes & outdoor workers – More exposure = more risk.

💙 Children & pregnant women – Developing hearts are especially vulnerable.

If you fall into any of these groups, cleaner air should be a top priority for your health.

How to Protect Your Heart from Air Pollution

💡 Monitor Air Quality: Check the AQI (Air Quality Index) daily and avoid outdoor exercise when pollution levels are high.

💡 Keep Windows Closed During High Pollution Days: If the AQI is bad, keeping your windows shut will help prevent outdoor pollution from entering your home.

💡 Eat Heart-Healthy Foods: Foods rich in antioxidants (like berries, nuts, and leafy greens) help fight inflammation caused by air pollution.

💡 Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush toxins from your body.

💡 Use a High-Quality Air Filter: Salus’ MERV 13 Grade Air Filters capture PM2.5, allergens, and other pollutants before they enter your lungs.

At-Home Air Quality Tip: Vacuum Smarter, Not Harder

Most vacuums kick up dust and allergens into the air—especially if they don’t have a HEPA filter. If you’re using a regular vacuum, you might be breathing in more pollutants instead of getting rid of them!

✔️ Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap tiny dust particles.

✔️ Vacuum at least once a week—especially carpets, rugs, and fabric furniture.

✔️ Don’t forget air vents & window AC units—dust builds up fast!

What’s Next?

We’ve talked about how air affects the lungs and heart, but what about your brain? 🤯

Next time, we’ll dive into the surprising link between air pollution and cognitive decline—including brain fog, memory loss, and even Alzheimer’s risk.

Until then, remember: every breath matters. Let’s make it a clean one.

With fresh perspectives,

Seb & Hall

Co-Founders, Salus Homes

Breathe Better. Live Better. 🌿