What does particle pollution do to your health?

Question

Caleb Allen · Accepted Answer

Fine particulates from air pollution get deep into your lungs and inhibit gas exchange processes.

Fine particulates are emitted from an number of industrial processes, but burning coal is the main culprit. Particulates are essentially fine rock material that was incorporated into the plants before they became coal and does not burn upon combustion. It essentially goes up the stack, though some industrial plants are required to scrub some of these fine particulates out.

Fine particulates are breathed in and get trapped in the fine air sacks of the lungs, where gas exchange takes place (ie..Oxygen in - CO2 out). This reduces lung function and can lead to asthma and other respiratory problems. A whole host of other health issues can also occur (see pic.)

Roman Acosta · Answer

undefined Particle pollution can negatively affect human health by causing respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. It can also exacerbate existing conditions like asthma and bronchitis, and lead to cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, long-term exposure to particle pollution has been linked to decreased lung function, lung cancer, and premature death.

Clara Addison · Answer

undefined Particle pollution, also known as particulate matter (PM), can have several adverse effects on health. When inhaled, these tiny particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and even enter the bloodstream, leading to various health problems. Some of the health effects associated with particle pollution include:

1. Respiratory issues: Particle pollution can aggravate existing respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis, leading to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

2. Cardiovascular problems: Exposure to particle pollution has been linked to an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases. These particles can cause inflammation in the blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis and hypertension.

3. Reduced lung function: Prolonged exposure to particle pollution can impair lung development in children and decrease lung function in adults, making it more difficult to breathe and increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections.

4. Premature death: Long-term exposure to high levels of particle pollution has been associated with an increased risk of premature death, particularly from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.

5. Other health effects: Particle pollution has also been linked to a range of other health problems, including aggravation of existing lung conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and an increased risk of lung cancer.

Overall, reducing exposure to particle pollution is essential for protecting public health and preventing the development of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. This can be achieved through measures such as improving air quality standards, reducing emissions from vehicles and industrial sources, and promoting the use of cleaner energy sources.