7 Alarming Signs That Show Your Home Might Be Secretly Harming Your Health
Is Your Home or Office Making You Sick?
If you’ve been feeling unwell without a clear reason, your building might be to blame. This condition is known as Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)—first defined by the WHO in 1983—and it refers to a wide range of symptoms triggered by time spent in certain buildings, often without an obvious cause.
Common Symptoms:
- Skin rashes, Fatigue and body aches, Respiratory issues, Headaches, Dry or irritated eyes and throat. Poor sleep, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating
Possible Causes of SBS:
- Mold & fungus in damp or poorly ventilated spaces, Chemical exposure (e.g., from cleaning products, paint, furniture, pesticides), Poor air quality and lack of fresh airflow, Unbalanced humidity—too dry or too humid air can affect skin, hair, and breathing, Noise pollution, which can lead to fatigue, sleep issues, and even heart problems, Harsh lighting or lack of natural light, which disrupts sleep and focus, Dirty HVAC systems, dust, droppings, or indoor pollutants
Short-Term Solutions:
- Improve ventilation, Use natural, low-toxicity cleaning products, Add air-purifying plants (like aloe vera or ivy), Use humidifiers/dehumidifiers as needed, Try noise-cancelling headphones in loud spaces, Maximize natural light and update artificial lighting
Long-Term Solution:
If symptoms persist despite changes, moving to a different home or office may be necessary.
Note: Always consult a doctor about your health concerns. This information is for awareness, not medical diagnosis.
