Asthma: The Lung Menace

Asthma is an inflammatory disease that occurs in the airways of the lungs. It makes breathing difficult, consequently leading to ordinary physical activities becoming strenuous. Normally, during inhalation, air enters through your nose and passes down the throat into your airways, making it to your lungs. There are several small air passages in your lungs which help deliver oxygen from the air directly into your bloodstream. In the case of asthma, however, swelling takes place in the lining of the airways and the muscles present around them tighten. The airways are clogged with mucus, which further decreases the amount of air that can pass through. Such conditions then bring on an asthma “attack” – coughing and suffocation that are typical of asthma.

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 27 million Americans have asthma. Among American children, it happens to be the most common chronic condition – 1 child out of 12 has asthma.

Asthma is commonly attributed to genetics, a history of viral infections during childhood, and exposure to possible allergens. Although the last cause is mostly associated with outside irritants such as dust and pollen, there are many indoor allergens that can lead to asthma as well.

Indoor Triggers of Asthma

Household Dust

When dust gets accumulated in various parts of your home or office, it becomes a problem. This is because dust easily tends to float in the air, leading to their inhalation. Flat surfaces such as floors, countertops, beds, and tables are prone to the build-up of dust. If these items are not cleaned regularly, the settled particles could become airborne and enter your nostrils, leading to asthma.

Smoke from Tobacco

If there is any family member or employee who smokes indoors, it can become a potential irritant for those with asthma. Smoke particles tend to remain in the air long after the source of smoke (cigarette or cigar) has been snuffed out.

Smoke from Stoves & Heaters

Indoor combustion appliances like gas or kerosene space heaters and gas stoves emit smoke that contains nitrogen dioxide. The presence of this gas increases the susceptibility to respiratory infections and can exacerbate asthma. It basically inflames the lining of the lungs that, in turn, reduces immunity to lung infections. This can cause breathing difficulty, wheezing, and spasmodic coughs. People with asthma are more at risk as nitrogen dioxide causes intense attacks at a more frequent pace.

Pet Dander

Pet dander consists of tiny flecks of skin shed by your furry family members – pets. Generally, dogs, cats, birds, and other animals with fur shed often. Although apparently harmless, these tiny bits of skin can cause allergic reactions in certain people. Those with asthma are more likely to suffer from exposure to pet dander.

Chemical Odors

Chemical odors can be emitted from various sources such as pesticides, solvents, paints, adhesives, vinyl flooring and tiles, particleboard, toner from photocopiers, dry-cleaned garments, and cleaning agents used indoors. As these odors are stimulating, they can cause attacks in people with asthma.

Other Smells

Certain fragrances such as scented soaps and detergents, room deodorizers, personal deodorants, cologne, and perfumes can lead to the presence of potential irritants in the air. These need to be removed to avoid any breathing problems or reactions in asthmatic individuals.

Adverse Effects of Asthma

Shortness of Breath

The most common effect of asthma is shortness of breath which, in turn, makes it difficult for the individual to go about their daily activities. These can range from walking, doing chores, exercising, cooking, and even engaging in long conversations. The lack of exercise can also lead to unwanted obesity leading to other problems like high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, stroke, and gallbladder disease. Shortness of breath caused by asthma can, thus, result in low quality of life.

Coughing & Wheezing

As the airway linings are blocked by mucus, it leads to little or considerable wheezing during breathing and frequent coughing as well. Other than causing continuous suffering, wheezing and coughing can disrupt the individual’s sleep in the middle of the night.

Risk of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Individuals with asthma are vulnerable to the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This occurs when stomach acid gets accumulated in the esophagus. Typically, an asthma attack stimulates the lower esophageal sphincter, located above the stomach, to open up, enabling the stomach acid to intrude into the esophagus. Such an action increases the risk of developing GERD.

Complications for Pregnant Women

For expectant women, severe asthma can bring about grave complications for both the mother and the infant. In fact, women can experience toxemia, high blood pressure, premature delivery, and at times even death. Uncontrolled asthma can reduce the amount of oxygen transmitted to the fetus, which creates an additional risk of the pregnancy failing.

Overview of Indoor Air Cleanup

Prior Testing

To ensure your family or employees, depending on the scenario, a clean indoor air environment, our team conducts a quality test before beginning any work. Through this, we ascertain the allergens present in the specific area to understand the issues that need to be tackled. We test the allergens, gas levels, ventilation, and humidity to provide an appropriate cleanup to give the clean air you deserve.

Advance Estimate of Service

We believe in complete transparency with our esteemed customers. Once we determine the kind and extent of cleanup required, you will get an estimate of the expected cost of our service. Be rest assured that there will be no hidden charges. We will be more than happy to clarify all your queries and doubts.

Efficient Cleaning Services

After identifying the sources of your indoor air quality concerns, we use advanced, state-of-the-art equipment to clean up the indoor air. We use air purifiers, air cleaners as well as filtration and ventilation equipment for this purpose. Our experienced professionals will create a customized plan to make sure that your indoor air is safe, pure, and clean.

Has asthma become a frequent phenomenon for you or your dear ones or employees even when indoors? Do you suspect poor air quality within the confines of your property? Would you like immediate cleanup to tackle the problem?

Call ECOS at 888-375-3267 today!

We are committed to providing reliable services to make your life safer, easier, and better.

Why Choose ECOS?

We have a live operator on call 24/7 to schedule your project (Monday through Sunday).
Our services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year.
We give topmost priority to the health and safety of our clients.
Our modern equipment is safe for people, animals, and sensitive materials.
Our technicians are friendly and helpful.
We have years of professional experience in the industry and are experts.
We have no hidden charges and offer competitive pricing.
We take “before” and “after” photographs with relation to our cleanup service that record and show the extent of damage to the insurance company (if the affected area is covered by insurance).