Your home is your safe haven, but sometimes certain parts of your home may actually be doing more harm than good. If you’ve been getting sick, here are a few signs that it might actually be your house that’s causing it.
1. You’re Experiencing Unexplained Respiratory Issues
If you’ve been experiencing ongoing respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, or ongoing colds, your HVAC system or air ducts may be to blame. Your HVAC system’s filter helps to catch dust, dirt, and debris to keep them out of the air. However, when your filters aren’t regularly replaced or cleaned, those particles can end up backing up into your home. Debris or mildew can also build up in your home’s air ducts, which can lead to more serious health issues later down the line. It’s important to visit a doctor at least once a year to help catch any potential health issues that could be caused by your home. Cleaning your air ducts regularly and changing your HVAC filter can help to keep your home’s air clean.
2. You Feel Fatigued
According to the CDC, over 100,000 people visit the emergency room every year due to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide poisoning is especially common during the winter months, but it’s possible to experience it throughout the year. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include fatigue, dizziness, headache, confusion, upset stomach, weakness, chest pain, and vomiting.
If your home is over 30 years old, it’s a good idea to contact an electrician to make sure your electrical systems are safe. Some of the most common causes of carbon monoxide poisoning include poorly ventilated or maintained appliances like stoves, water heaters, and space heaters.
3. You’ve Been Diagnosed With a Hantavirus
If you’ve recently gone to the doctor and you’ve been diagnosed with a hantavirus, odds are your home has a rodent problem. Mice can be tricky to spot, especially because they’re mostly active at night. However, they can jump up to 3 feet high and can often access food on your counters and in your cabinets. Contact a local pest control company if you’ve been diagnosed with a hantavirus or if you’ve noticed droppings or chew marks around your cabinets.
4. You’re Experiencing Sick Building Syndrome
Sick Building Syndrome is commonly associated with symptoms like irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. These symptoms may appear within a short time of being in the building or after being gone for a few hours. While these symptoms might seem minor at first glance, they might leave lasting effects.
If your house was built somewhere between 1920 and 1978, there’s a chance you’ve been exposed to asbestos due to the fact that it was a common material used in building houses. Asbestos can be dangerous when inhaled and can put you at risk of cancer and lung disease. You should hire specially-trained licensed contractors to remove the asbestos from your home if you suspect there is any.
Your home should be your sanctuary, but you shouldn’t take for granted that it’s your safe place. It could be the very reason you’re feeling ill. Listen to what your body is telling you. Don’t just shrug off any of these symptoms. For your health’s sake, get a check-up if you feel it is needed, and inspect your home closely.