Sisäilmasairaus

Sisäilmasairaus, also known as sick building syndrome, is a term used to describe a collection of non-specific symptoms that people experience when occupying a particular building. These symptoms are often temporary and tend to disappear once the individual leaves the building. While the exact cause remains unclear, it is believed to be related to poor indoor air quality.

Common symptoms associated with sisäilmasairaus include headaches, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, dizziness, nausea, irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, and skin rashes. These symptoms can vary in severity and may affect multiple occupants within the same building.

Factors that can contribute to poor indoor air quality and potentially lead to sisäilmasairaus include inadequate ventilation, the presence of pollutants such as mold, dust mites, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from building materials and furnishings, and insufficient cleaning and maintenance of the building systems.

Diagnosis of sisäilmasairaus can be challenging as there are no specific medical tests. It is typically based on the pattern of symptoms reported by occupants, their correlation with time spent in the building, and the exclusion of other potential medical conditions. Identifying and addressing the underlying environmental factors is crucial for remediation.

Strategies to improve indoor air quality and mitigate sisäilmasairaus involve increasing ventilation rates, controlling humidity levels, identifying and removing sources of pollution, regular cleaning and maintenance, and using air filtration systems. Addressing these issues can lead to a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment for occupants.