06/01/2026
Poor indoor air quality can affect the body in both short-term and long-term ways, depending on what pollutants are present (like dust, mold, smoke, chemicals, or gases such as carbon monoxide).
Short-term effects
These can show up quickly after exposure:
Irritated eyes, nose, or throat
Headaches or dizziness
Fatigue or feeling “foggy”
Coughing, sneezing, or worsening allergy symptoms
Shortness of breath, especially in people with asthma
