Sick building syndrome and allergies

Can sick building syndrome be linked to moulds? It turns out that yes, it can. However, let’s start at the beginning. What is the sick building phenomenon at all? Can we even say that a house is sick?

It is nothing more than the effect of chemical compounds in the air in buildings that contribute to ill health and the development of various ailments. These compounds, occur most often because of a faulty ventilation system and heat regulation problems in houses. This situation in turn contributes to an increase in humidity, which promotes the growth of mould. It is therefore important to regularly check the humidity and temperature levels in the rooms in which we live [1, 2].

Characteristic of sick building syndrome is that the occupants only experience symptoms when they are indoors. On the other hand, when they go outside for a longer period of time, the symptoms disappear. How, then, can sick building syndrome affect us? Symptoms include, but are not limited to:

• irritation of the mucous membranes of the eyes,
• rhinitis
• irritation of the throat,
• headache,
• skin rashes,
• memory and sleep disturbances,
• cough, shortness of breath [3].

Sick building syndrome can be dangerous for anyone, but especially for people who have mould allergies. Therefore, we should pay attention to areas in the house such as the bathroom, kitchen or basement, as well as other rooms where there may be poor ventilation. Which moulds can we find there? Those that can primarily contribute to allergic reactions, which include Cladosporium, Alternaria, Aspergillus and Penicillium [4].

Sick building syndrome most often affects those accommodating large institutions, i.e. hospitals, offices, schools, but residential homes can also be affected. How can this phenomenon be prevented?

• It is important to remember to ventilate the rooms regularly and not to clog the air vents.
• Getting an air purifier may also be helpful.
• If an air conditioner is fitted, it should be cleaned regularly.
• Also, do not forget to keep the rooms you are in clean and tidy [5].

Natalia Gajek

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translation: Julia Majsiak