Sources of Contaminants in the Home

Exposure to contaminants in the home and all indoor spaces can cause disease, including chronic inflammation, allergy, and asthma. Controlling dust, which can contain mold spores, insect parts, fecal material, pet dander, skin fragments, packaging materials, dust mites, volatile cleaning agents, and carpet fragments, is essential for clean indoor air. Dust is a vector for chemical toxins and organic and inorganic materials, which are sources of inflammation. The triggered immune response plays a central role in the pathogenesis of asthma, allergy, and sinusitis. Controlling humidity is necessary to minimize mold and the infiltration of dust mites and other insects in the home.