If you’re feeling sick and don’t know why it’s worth considering whether your environment might be to blame.
There are a number of things in the environment that can cause sickness or environmental sickness. These include bacteria and viruses, toxins and chemicals, dust and particulates, and allergens.
Contributors to this type of sickness are caused by environmental pollution.
A pollutant is an agent in the environment which can cause disease in those who are exposed and include agents that are naturally present but in abnormal quantities (ozone) and those that are not naturally present. Substances that contaminate the soil, water, and the air can cause disease.
Pollutants include –human, animal, and plant waste, industrial vapors, and heavy metals.
Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have, and take steps to improve the quality of your indoor and outdoor spaces.
Top 6 Environmental Factors Making You Sick
Here are the top 6 factors in your environment that can cause sickness:
- Air pollution
- Water pollution
- Soil contamination
- Lead exposure
- Radiation exposure
- Indoor Pollution
Air Pollution
There are many things that can cause air pollution, but the two main culprits are cars and factories. Cars release harmful gases like carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide into the atmosphere, while factories release harmful chemicals and particulates. Both of these can lead to a build-up of pollutants in the air, which can cause health problems for people who breathe it in.
Water Pollution
Water pollution is a very big problem that we face today. There are many things that can cause water pollution, such as factories and power plants that release harmful chemicals into the water, or oil spills from ships. These pollutants can damage the environment and harm people and animals.
Soil Contamination
Soil contamination occurs when the composition of the soil is altered by the introduction of pollutants. This can happen through a variety of means, including agricultural runoff, improper waste disposal, and industrial accidents. Soil contamination can lead to a number of problems, including reduced plant growth, reduced soil fertility, and health risks for humans and animals.
Harmful Lead Exposure
There are many sources of lead exposure, but the most common is lead-based paint. When paint begins to deteriorate, it can release lead into the air and dust. If these particles are inhaled or ingested, they can cause serious health problems. Other sources of lead exposure include contaminated soil, water, and household products.
Radiation Exposure
Radiation exposure can come from a number of sources, both natural and man-made. Natural sources of radiation include the sun, radon gas, and cosmic rays. Man-made sources of radiation include cell phones, laptops, wireless earbuds, x-ray machines, medical treatments such as radiation therapy, and nuclear accidents or bombings. Exposure to high levels of radiation can cause health problems such as cancer, organ damage, and birth defects.
Indoor Pollution
There can be other reasons you may be feeling sick from your environment, like indoor air pollution, poor indoor air quality, mold growth, or other things that can increase your risk of becoming sick or feeling unwell. It’s been proven that even your house is making you sick, so it’s important to look at your home environment for anything that could cause adverse health effects.
Things like dust, mold, and even extreme weather can trigger allergies or other health problems.
Experts urge that if you are experiencing respiratory symptoms or have respiratory problems to see a doctor. It could make a world of difference for your health!
