How to Understand the Impacts of Ozone Pollution on Human Health
Recognize the possible symptoms of ozone pollution impacting your health., Be aware of the less obvious yet serious impacts., Be aware of which members of your family might be more sensitive to ozone pollution., Keep informed.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Recognize the possible symptoms of ozone pollution impacting your health.
If you or your family are experiencing the following symptoms on a smoggy or polluted day, it might be the result of ozone pollution:
It is more difficult to breathe deeply and vigorously Shortness of breath and pain when taking a deep breath Coughing and sore or scratchy throat. -
Step 2: Be aware of the less obvious yet serious impacts.
These effects may lead to increased school absences, visits to doctors and emergency rooms, and hospital admissions.
These can include:
Inflamed and damaged lung lining Lungs are more susceptible to infection Aggravates lung diseases such as asthma, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis.
Increased frequency of asthma attacks Continues to damage the lungs even when the symptoms have disappeared.
Research also indicates that ozone exposure may increase the risk of premature death from heart or lung disease. , Some people are more sensitive to ozone than others.
Sensitive groups include:
Children People with lung disease, such as asthma, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis; and older adults Even healthy adults who are active outdoors can experience ozone’s harmful effects. , To protect your health and that of your family and community, there are some key things that you can do.
Listen for information about smog alerts and follow instructions.
And if you are in the United States, read what to do on an Ozone Air Quality Action Day. -
Step 3: Be aware of which members of your family might be more sensitive to ozone pollution.
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Step 4: Keep informed.
Detailed Guide
If you or your family are experiencing the following symptoms on a smoggy or polluted day, it might be the result of ozone pollution:
It is more difficult to breathe deeply and vigorously Shortness of breath and pain when taking a deep breath Coughing and sore or scratchy throat.
These effects may lead to increased school absences, visits to doctors and emergency rooms, and hospital admissions.
These can include:
Inflamed and damaged lung lining Lungs are more susceptible to infection Aggravates lung diseases such as asthma, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis.
Increased frequency of asthma attacks Continues to damage the lungs even when the symptoms have disappeared.
Research also indicates that ozone exposure may increase the risk of premature death from heart or lung disease. , Some people are more sensitive to ozone than others.
Sensitive groups include:
Children People with lung disease, such as asthma, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis; and older adults Even healthy adults who are active outdoors can experience ozone’s harmful effects. , To protect your health and that of your family and community, there are some key things that you can do.
Listen for information about smog alerts and follow instructions.
And if you are in the United States, read what to do on an Ozone Air Quality Action Day.
About the Author
Jennifer Graham
Writer and educator with a focus on practical cooking knowledge.
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