Do you need to be exposed to pollutants over many years to be affected by them?

Certain pollutants, when present in high concentrations, can have an immediate detrimental effect on an individual's health. In certain cases, these high concentrations of pollutants can cause illness, but in other cases, they can be lethal.

The amount or concentration of a pollutant as well as its own properties determine how quickly a person will experience negative effects because certain pollutants are also more harmful to human health than others.

Individuals can be exposed to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) through inhalation, skin absorption, or ingestion. VOCs are carbon-based compounds that evaporate at room temperature.

Formaldehyde, isopentane, limonene, toluene, and vinyl chloride are just a few of the compounds found in many household products, like paint strippers, furniture polishes, and glue. When someone is exposed to a high concentration of VOCs in a short period of time, they may experience headaches, eye, nose, or throat irritation, and dizziness.

Both smoke and carbon monoxide are pollutants (mostly from fires). Inhaling smoke can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as shortness of breath and lung irritation (you probably know what I mean if you've ever attended a bonfire party). Inhaling carbon monoxide can cause poisoning, which can cause dull headaches, weakness, dizziness, lethargy, shortness of breath, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, and unconsciousness.

One of the most frequent occupational hazards for first responders (firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and police officers) is smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning.

No, exposure duration varies. Some effects occur with short-term exposure, while others may require prolonged exposure.