Sick Building Syndrome: A Comprehensive Guide
Key Takeaways
Sick building syndrome affects people who spend time in buildings with poor indoor air quality and inadequate ventilation
Symptoms include headaches, fatigue, eye irritation, respiratory problems, and difficulty concentrating
The condition is linked to chemical pollutants, biological contaminants, and poor building maintenance
Most symptoms improve when people leave the affected building
Prevention focuses on proper ventilation, humidity control, and regular building maintenance
Overview
Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a condition where people experience health problems that seem linked to time spent in a particular building. The symptoms appear when you're in the building and typically improve when you leave. This isn't a specific disease but rather a collection of symptoms that happen together.
The World Health Organization estimates that up to 30% of new and remodeled buildings may have indoor air quality problems. Office workers, students, and anyone who spends significant time indoors can be affected. The condition became more recognized in the 1970s and 1980s as buildings became more energy-efficient but less well-ventilated.
SBS differs from building-related illness, which involves specific medical conditions caused by known contaminants. With sick building syndrome, the exact cause often remains unclear, making it challenging to diagnose and treat. Many people don't realize their symptoms are caused by their building until they notice the pattern of getting better when they leave. Understanding this condition helps you take steps to protect your health in your daily environment.
Symptoms & Signs
Sick building syndrome symptoms typically develop gradually and worsen the longer you stay in the affected building. The symptoms can vary from person to person and may affect multiple people in the same building. Some people experience only one or two symptoms, while others develop several at the same time.
Primary Symptoms
Headaches and dizziness - Often described as persistent and dull, these may worsen throughout the day
Eye, nose, and throat irritation - Including burning eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and sore throat
Fatigue and difficulty concentrating - Mental fog, tiredness, and reduced ability to focus on tasks
Respiratory problems - Cough, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or wheezing without a clear cause
When to Seek Care
You should contact a healthcare provider if symptoms persist after leaving the building, worsen over time, or significantly impact your daily activities. Pay attention to patterns - if multiple people in your workplace or building experience similar symptoms, this strengthens the possibility of sick building syndrome. Keep track of when symptoms happen and whether they occur in specific rooms or times of day. This information helps doctors understand what's causing your health problems.
When to Seek Immediate Care
Seek emergency medical attention if you experience severe breathing difficulties, chest pain, or symptoms of allergies that don't improve with standard treatments.
Causes & Risk Factors
Sick building syndrome results from a combination of indoor air quality problems, inadequate ventilation, and various environmental factors. The exact mechanisms aren't fully understood, but several key factors contribute to the development of symptoms.
Poor ventilation is often the primary culprit. When fresh air circulation is inadequate, pollutants and contaminants build up indoors. This creates an environment where people breathe recycled air that may contain harmful substances. Modern energy-efficient buildings sometimes prioritize sealing over ventilation, leading to these problems. Buildings that were designed to save energy often trap stale air inside, which makes the problem worse.
Chemical contaminants from indoor and outdoor sources play a significant role. These include volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from carpets, furniture, cleaning products, and office equipment. Tobacco smoke, vehicle exhaust that enters the building, and pesticides also contribute to poor indoor air quality. Biological contaminants like mold, dust mites, and bacteria can grow in buildings with high humidity or water damage. These living things release substances into the air that make people feel sick.
Age
Adults aged 25-50 in office environments are most commonly affected
Genetics
Some people may be more sensitive to indoor air pollutants
Lifestyle
Those who spend 90% or more of their time indoors face higher risk
Other Conditions
People with asthma, allergies, or chemical sensitivities are more susceptible
Continue Learning
Related articles you might find helpful
Diagnosis
Diagnosing sick building syndrome requires careful evaluation because there's no specific test for the condition. Healthcare providers focus on identifying patterns and ruling out other medical conditions that might cause similar symptoms.
Medical History & Physical Examination
Your doctor will ask detailed questions about when symptoms occur, where you spend your time, and whether symptoms improve when you're away from specific buildings. They'll want to know about your work environment, home conditions, and any recent changes in buildings you frequent. The physical exam typically focuses on your respiratory system, eyes, and overall health status. Your doctor may also ask if coworkers or family members experience similar symptoms, since sick building syndrome often affects multiple people in the same location.
Diagnostic Testing
Environmental assessment - Evaluation of air quality, humidity levels, and ventilation in the suspected building
Allergy testing - Blood tests or skin tests to identify specific environmental sensitivities or underlying anemia that might worsen symptoms
Pulmonary function tests - Breathing tests to check for respiratory problems and rule out asthma or other lung conditions
Treatment Options
Treatment for sick building syndrome focuses on reducing exposure to triggering factors and managing symptoms. The goal is to improve indoor air quality and help your body recover from the effects of poor environmental conditions. Most people feel better once they spend less time in the problem building.
Conservative Treatments
Environmental modifications - Improving ventilation, controlling humidity, and removing pollution sources from buildings
Personal protective measures - Using air purifiers, changing work locations when possible, and taking regular breaks outdoors
Symptom management - Over-the-counter medications for headaches, antihistamines for allergic-type symptoms, and eye drops for irritation
Advanced Treatments
Building remediation - Professional assessment and improvement of HVAC systems, removal of contaminated materials, and comprehensive cleaning
Medical management - Prescription medications for severe symptoms and treatment of underlying conditions that make you more sensitive to environmental factors
The most effective treatment is avoiding the sick building when possible. If you must work or spend time there, opening windows and using fans can help bring in fresh air. Taking breaks outside gives your body time to recover from the indoor air pollutants.
Living with the Condition
Managing sick building syndrome requires ongoing attention to your environment and symptoms. Many people find significant relief by identifying and avoiding trigger buildings when possible.
Daily Management Strategies
Keep a symptom diary to track when and where problems occur. This helps identify specific buildings or areas that cause symptoms. Increase your time outdoors and in well-ventilated spaces. Stay hydrated and consider using a personal air purifier in your workspace. If you work in an affected building, discuss concerns with your employer or building management. Opening windows regularly and using plants in your workspace can improve air quality naturally.
Exercise & Movement
Regular physical activity outdoors can help your body process toxins and improve overall health. Avoid intense exercise in poorly ventilated indoor spaces. Walking, hiking, and other outdoor activities are particularly beneficial. Indoor exercise should be done in well-ventilated gyms or spaces with good air circulation. Even short walks outside during your workday can help reduce sick building syndrome symptoms.
Prevention
Ensure proper ventilation in your home and advocate for good air circulation in your workplace
Control indoor humidity between 30-50% to prevent mold growth and reduce dust mites
Choose low-emission products when selecting furniture, carpets, and building materials for your home
Maintain HVAC systems with regular cleaning and filter changes to prevent contamination buildup
Address water damage immediately to prevent mold growth and maintain structural integrity
Use natural cleaning products when possible to reduce chemical exposure in indoor environments
Test your home for radon and other dangerous gases that can accumulate indoors
Keep plants indoors to naturally filter the air and improve oxygen levels in your space
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, sick building syndrome is recognized by major health organizations including the EPA and WHO. While the exact causes aren't always clear, the symptoms are real and can significantly impact quality of life.
Most people recover completely when they're no longer exposed to the problematic building. However, prolonged exposure may worsen existing conditions like rare types of anemia or respiratory problems.
Symptoms typically begin to improve within hours to days of leaving the affected building. Complete recovery may take several weeks, especially if exposure was prolonged.
Yes, children can be affected and may be more sensitive than adults. Schools with poor ventilation or water damage are common sources of sick building syndrome in children.
Document your symptoms and their timing. Report concerns to your employer or building management. Consider requesting an indoor air quality assessment and seek medical evaluation to rule out other conditions.
