Ozone, Particulates, and Appendicitis, Oh My!

Air pollution is a hot news topic. Ground-level ozone, which is the result of reaction between human-generated fuel emissions and sunlight is well known to irritate the lungs.  Ozone levels are commonly reported on the daytime news.   In fact, scientists have found a relationship between an increase in ground-level ozone due to thunderstorms and an increase in hospital admissions for sufferers of asthma.

Particulates, or fine particles, are also a common topic of discussion in air quality improvement circles.  These tiny culprits, found in indoor and outside air, are generated by both nature and man.  For the past 30 years or so, scientists have researched the effects of particulate inhalation, which can lead to asthma and lung cancer.  This seems pretty logical since particulates become lodged in the respiratory tract after being inhaled.  

Recent research by a team at the University of Calgary apparently links air pollution to an increased risk of appendicitis.  According to these researchers, particulates, sulphur dioxides, nitrogen dioxide, and, especially, ozone found in air pollution are all to blame for increased incidents of appendicitis.  Adverse health effects resulting from air pollution include reduced blood flow in the gut and dehydration — both of which could damage the appendix, leading to appendicitis.

When air quality is low, it is recommended that people stay indoors to reduce the risk of exposure and potential negative impacts on health.  Particulates also exist in the home, however.  To improve the indoor air quality inside your house, there are many options.  It is worth exploring whether an air purification system, room ventilation system, or central vacuum can help your family breathe easier.