Millions of adults regularly suffer from symptoms of air pollution – in the comfort of their own homes

A third of the adults experienced allergy symptoms such as sneezing or itchy eyes, while a quarter suffered from persistent fatigue

Millions of adults regularly experience symptoms associated with poor air quality because they use cleaning supplies, live with a smoker, or even own a pet.

A study of 2,000 adults found that 35% are concerned about how the air quality in their home might affect their physical health.

Of these, one in three (32%) has sneezed at home or suffered from an allergic reaction, while a quarter (26%) suffered from persistent fatigue.

But nearly half of adults (46%) admitted they had no idea what air pollution was, while 62% believed it only occurs outside the home.

dr Ranj Singh, who works with Breville, which commissioned the research to launch its 360° air purifier range, said: “Indoor air pollution is a hidden hazard, even if you don’t have any existing breathing problems, so it’s important to that we continue to educate ourselves about the causes.

“Unlike outdoor air pollution, which is directly linked to vehicle emissions and industrial by-products, simple daily tasks and our habits can contribute to indoor air pollution, which can also be dangerous.

“Anything from smoking indoors to wood-burning stoves to using cleaning products can increase your risk.

“Indoor air pollution exacerbates the symptoms of asthma, COPD and bronchiectasis. It has also been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

“We cannot completely eliminate indoor air pollution, but we can take steps to reduce it, including using household air purifiers.”

The study also found that more than one in four adults smokes or vapes indoors, while one in six has damp or mold around their home.

Others regularly use bleach (32%) and own a furry pet (28%)—all things Dr. Ranj believes they contribute to indoor air pollution.

It also found that more than half (53%) suffered from hay fever – with symptoms such as itchy eyes (55%), sneezing (54%) and runny and stuffy nose (52%).

And a fifth even moved away in search of better air.

But three quarters of pet owners would rather suffer from allergy symptoms than give up their furry friend.

And 24% of respondents would choose poor air quality over making any changes to their current lifestyle, according to OnePoll.

dr Ranj Singh added, “Research shows that even though it effectively eliminates indoor air pollution, reduces pet and pollen allergens, filters out harmful germs and removes unpleasant odors from the home environment, very few adults own an air purifier.”

DR RANJ SINGH’S TOP TIPS FOR IMPROVING INDOOR AIR QUALITY:

1. The first and least expensive tip is to make sure your rooms are well ventilated. Open your windows several times a day to let in fresh air, which is especially important when cooking.
2. Regular vacuum cleaning may seem obvious, but it is particularly important for allergy sufferers and carpet owners. This helps remove polluting particles and pet hair that contribute to indoor pollution.
3. Swap out your cleaning products for eco-friendly and non-toxic options. Bleach and harsh chemicals can be effective on stains and grease, but they negatively impact the air you breathe and pollute our water supply when they wash down the sink.
4. Keep your home smoke free – and I’m not just talking about cigarettes. Incense sticks, wood stoves, etc. all emit carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide into the air which further pollutes the air we breathe.
5. Make sure there are no leaks in your home as this can lead to a build up of mold and mildew which can make wheezing, coughing and asthma symptoms worse. Check your home for signs of mold or mildew and make sure your bathroom has adequate ventilation to prevent moisture, which also causes mold.
6. One of the most effective ways to improve indoor air quality is to use an air purifier.