People who are suffering from asthma have attacks that are caused by various factors, that are often considered as triggers. Some of these triggers are contaminants or pollutants that can be found in the air. According to research, air pollution is one of the key contributing factors that cause asthma, a chronic respiratory disease that has increased dramatically in the past twenty years.
According to KidsHealth.org, the Earth’s ozone has an upper atmosphere that plays a key role in protecting us from harmful radiation, known as UV rays. However, ground-level ozone is considered different.
In the year 2004, the American Lung Association released a report and identified “particle pollution” in its “State of the Air”. It refers to particles such as smog, dust, smoke, soot, aerosol droplets and other fine irritants, that go deep into human lungs and cause health problems. The American Lung Association stated that 23 percent of the population who live in urban areas frequently encounter particle pollution at unhealthy levels all year round.
Experts say that other air pollutants include gases such as nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and industrial fumes, which are all major contributors to ozone and particle pollutants. In addition, even outdoor smoke, cigarette smoke and any other type of smoke can lead to asthma attacks in both adults and children.
Air Pollution in Children
According to KidsHealth.org, kids can be affected by indoor and outdoor air pollution due to their faster breathing rates, and the fact that their lungs are still in the process of growing. Asthma in children has become more common, and studies show that it is the most common chronic disease in children.
The problem triggers inflammation in a person’s bronchial tubes inside his lungs. This can lead to coughing and a wheezing sound, which is a sign of an asthma attack.