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 Dust and airborne particulates can be irritating to the upper respiratory system and will adversely affect individuals with existing allergies, asthma, and respiratory diseases. Chronic exposure to high levels of dust and airborne particulate may also pose a risk for people not currently experiencing any respiratory symptoms.
- Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
Particulates: Airborne particles include combustion products, dust and pollen. Health effects from exposure to respirable-size particles in the air depend on the types and concentrations of particles present, the frequency and duration of exposure, and individual sensitivity. Health effects can range from irritation of the eyes and/or respiratory tissues to more serious effects, such as cancer and decreased lung function. Biological particles such as animal and insect allergens, viruses, bacteria, and molds, can cause allergic reactions or infectious diseases.
- Public Health in North Carolina
PM10 - respirable particles having an aerodynamic diameter <= 10 microns. Particles < 5 microns can penetrate into the lower respiratory tract.
• PM2.5 -particles with an aerodynamic diameter <=2.5 microns. PM2.5 particles settle slowly (several hours to several days) - particles can cover hundreds of miles. Particles penetrate deep into lungs.
PARTICLES are matter that has a measurable size or diameter which is usually measured in microns: (1 micron=1 millionth of a meter or 1/25,000th inch). Most people cannot see particles smaller than I 00 microns. The human body has defenses which can protect against particles larger than 10 microns. Particles smaller than 10 microns can enter breathing passages and the lungs. Types of particles include:
Dust: Organic and Mineral
Textile Lint and Fibers
Bioaerosols: Pollen, Mold, Bacteria, Dust Mite and Roach fecal matter and body parts, Animal Dander and Dried Urine.
Smoke: Tobacco, Welding
http://www.dustfree.com/housdust.htm
What you should know about House Dust
This ever-changing and seemingly ever-present substance has been a concern of housekeepers and allergy patients alike. It is the result of the natural decomposition of the things we have in our homes plus we have dust that infiltrates from the outside through cracks in doors and windows. Wherever it comes from, it causes a lot of symptoms for the allergic person.
What is in house dust?
The composition varies from house to house, but in general, you might find textile fibers, decomposing insect parts, pet dander, human and animal hair, food leftovers, pollen grains, mold spores, bacteria, skin flakes, insulation, sand, and the most likely offender - the dust mite and its fecal material.
What increases the amount of dust in a house?
Carpets, draperies, ruffled items, knickknacks, books, magazines, pets, upholstered furniture, animals and pillows, and fireplaces are some of the things that increase dust levels. Infrequent cleaning or cleaning with a vacuum cleaner without a high efficiency filtering device, high traffic levels, location of the house, type of yard, and condition of the central air system can all contribute to the amount of dust in your home For example, if you are in a new neighborhood where there is a lot of construction and the yards are not sodden with grass, you will have more dust in your home. Leaks in the duct work can cause dust and insulation from the attic to be drawn into the living space.
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