Inhaled Air Contains Dust, Pollen & Microbes: Health Implications

Inspired air is never pure O₂. It carries:

• Particulates: dust, pollen, PM2.5/PM10 → allergies, asthma, COPD exacerbations.
• Microorganisms: bacteria, viruses, fungi → respiratory infections.
• Gases: O₃, NO₂, SO₂, CO → airway inflammation.

High-exposure events: dust storms, wildfires, pollen seasons → stay indoors, HEPA filtration, N95 if outside. Chronic exposure → accelerated lung aging, cardiovascular risk. Allergy/asthma patients: action plan, controller meds, allergist follow-up.