What is Sick Building Syndrome?

The term "Sick Building Syndrome" (SBS) is used to describe a variety of symptoms that building occupants may experience and which are believed to be brought on by the structure of the building. Headaches, irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, a dry cough, lightheadedness, nausea, and exhaustion are some symptoms. Though the exact cause of SBS is sometimes unknown, poor indoor air quality (IAQ) is thought to be a contributing factor. 

The most frequent causes of SBS are inadequate ventilation, poor air circulation, and the presence of pollutants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), dust mites, mold spores, and other allergens. Extremes of temperature, high humidity, and poor lighting are additional factors that can cause SBS. 

It depends on the individual whether the symptoms of SBS are short-term or chronic. In some cases, the symptoms may be so severe that they interfere with an individual's ability to work or perform daily activities. SBS can produce emotional distress like anxiety or depression in addition to physical symptoms. 

It's crucial for buildings to have sufficient ventilation systems in place in order to lower the risk of developing SBS. To do this, check that the building receives an adequate amount of fresh air and that it is distributed properly throughout the area. Effective filtration systems must be installed in buildings in order to remove airborne contaminants. In order to make sure heating and cooling systems are operating correctly and not releasing any pollutants into the air, routine maintenance should also be done on them. 

In addition to these steps, it's crucial for building owners and managers to improve IAQ by lowering sources of pollution like VOCs from furniture or cleaning products and managing the humidity levels inside the structure. IAQ should be regularly monitored in order to spot any potential issues before they get out of hand. 

Lastly, it's critical for people who experience SBS symptoms to consult a doctor if they linger or get worse over time. By doing this, it will be possible to prevent further health complications by ensuring that any underlying health issues are found and properly treated.