About Sick Building Syndrome

Overview

Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a condition where individuals develop short-term health problems or discomfort while spending time in a particular building or enclosed space. It is often attributed to poor indoor air quality, although the exact cause is still unknown. SBS can occur in various types of buildings, including offices, apartments, schools, and homes. Symptoms of SBS can vary widely and may resemble those of common illnesses like the cold. However, a key characteristic of SBS is that symptoms improve when individuals leave the building but return when they re-enter the same location. Factors such as low air quality, artificial lighting, mold and dust, and chemical exposure may contribute to SBS. Treating SBS involves avoiding the problematic building if possible and addressing the underlying causes. Preventing SBS includes proper building design, maintenance, and adopting healthy practices indoors.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact disease causes of sick building syndrome (SBS) are still uncertain. However, there are several potential factors that may contribute to its development. These include:

• Poor ventilation in buildings, such as offices and schools
• High levels of dust and pollutants in the air
• Presence of mold or fungus
• Exposure to chemicals from cleaning products or building materials
• Tobacco smoke
• Outdated computer displays causing eye strain
• Asbestos, formaldehyde, and pesticides

Non-modifiable risk factors for SBS refer to factors that cannot be changed or controlled. In the case of SBS, these include:

• Gender: Women may be more susceptible to SBS symptoms.
• Personality traits: Certain personality traits may make individuals more prone to experiencing SBS symptoms.

Modifiable risk factors are those that can be changed or controlled. For SBS, these may include:

• Improving ventilation systems
• Reducing exposure to dust and pollutants through regular cleaning and maintenance
• Addressing mold or fungus issues promptly
• Minimizing exposure to chemicals by using safer cleaning products

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on managing SBS symptoms.

Symptoms

The most common early symptoms of sick building syndrome (SBS) include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Eye, nose, or throat irritation
• Dry cough
• Dry or itching skin
• Difficulty in concentration
• Fatigue

As SBS progresses or becomes more severe, the following symptoms may also occur:

• Sensitivity to odors
• Hoarseness of voice
• Allergies
• Cold or flu-like symptoms
• Increased incidence of asthma attacks
• Personality changes

It's important to note that SBS affects everyone differently, and while some people may experience all of these symptoms, others may only experience a few or none at all. Additionally, individuals with existing allergies or respiratory illnesses may notice an increased severity in their symptoms. If you suspect you may have SBS, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and guidance on managing your symptoms.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing sick building syndrome (SBS) involves a process of elimination. Here are the common examinations, tests, and procedures used for diagnosis:

• Medical history: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, their frequency, and duration. They will also inquire about your work and home environment.
• Physical examination: A thorough physical examination will be conducted to assess your overall health and check for any specific signs related to SBS.
• Elimination of other conditions: Your doctor will rule out other conditions that could mimic SBS symptoms, such as a cold, asthma, or allergies.
• Symptom journal: Keeping a journal to record your symptoms can be helpful. Note when and where they start, as well as when they go away. Be specific about your symptoms to aid in the diagnosis.

To determine the severity of SBS, additional examinations or tests may be performed:

• Pulmonary function tests: These tests measure how well your lungs are functioning and can help assess any respiratory issues related to SBS.
• Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) test: This test measures the level of nitric oxide in your breath and can indicate airway inflammation.
• Blood tests may be checked to make sure there are no other causes of your symptoms.

Please note that these examinations, tests, and procedures should be conducted by a healthcare professional. They will evaluate your individual situation and provide appropriate recommendations based on your specific needs.

Treatment Options

The goals of treatment for sick building syndrome (SBS) are to alleviate symptoms and reduce exposure to the causes of these symptoms. Here are the recommended treatments and how they work to achieve these goals:

• Medication types:
  • Allergy medications: These can help alleviate itchy eyes, nose, and skin. Over-the-counter options like diphenhydramine and cetirizine are widely available. They work by blocking histamine, a chemical released during an allergic reaction.
• Therapies:
  • Asthma medications: These may be needed for wheezing and other breathing difficulties. Long-term medications like leukotriene modifiers or an inhaler for acute symptoms can be prescribed. They work by reducing inflammation and opening up the airways.
• Therapeutic procedures:
  • Identifying and addressing the underlying cause: This involves investigating factors like low air quality, artificial light, mold and dust, and chemical exposure in the building. By addressing these factors, symptoms can be alleviated.
• Health behavior changes:
  • Employers can take steps to improve the building environment: Using cleaning products with low fumes and no fragrances, regular vacuuming to remove dust, changing air filters regularly, maintaining optimal humidity levels (40-70%), testing for indoor mold or fungus, updating display systems, and changing lights as needed.

Overall, treatment for SBS focuses on symptom relief and reducing exposure to the triggers in the building environment. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.