Pollen, Mold and Other Indoor Contaminants Impact Puerto Rico’s Allergy and Asthma Rates

Allergy and asthma rates in Puerto Rico are much higher than most other parts of the United States. There are a number of factors for why this is likely the case, including the region’s tropical climate which is conducive for the growth of mold and year-round pollen.
 
Flowering plants, trees and grasses release pollen into the environment. The fine powdery substance can be carried by the wind and even into people’s homes, businesses and schools. For anyone exposed to pollen, it can cause various symptoms, or none at all. For those allergic to pollen, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that exposure can trigger various allergic reactions, including symptoms of hay fever. Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, occurs when allergens like pollen enter the body and the immune system mistakenly identifies them as a threat. For those with allergic rhinitis, the body then responds to the allergen by releasing chemicals that can cause symptoms.
 
Pollen exposure can also trigger symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the lining of the eye due to exposure to allergens like those in pollen. Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis include red, watery or itchy eyes.
 
“People with respiratory illnesses, like asthma or COPD, may also be more sensitive to pollen,” said Harry Pena, President of Zimmetry Environmental. “Exposure to pollen has been linked to asthma attacks and increases in hospital admissions for respiratory illnesses. Fortunately, there are simple steps people can take to minimize the amount of pollen they are exposed to in the indoor environment. These include keeping windows and doors shut during pollen season, using quality air filters in the HVAC system, dusting regularly, using a HEPA vacuum, changing clothes and showering after being outdoors, and using an appropriate air purifier. It’s also important to recognize there could be other common indoor allergens causing allergies and respiratory issues, these often include mold, animal danger and dust mites. Understanding what is present indoors, and their source, is essential for developing solutions to mitigate exposure risks.”
 
Zimmetry’s building science professionals provide comprehensive site investigations with indoor environmental quality testing services to improve conditions in all types of buildings throughout Puerto Rico for those suffering from allergic conjunctivitis or from other conditions due to exposure to respiratory allergens, irritants and asthma triggers. They also recently sponsored an educational video about pollen allergies and indoor air quality that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/z2j-r2tkrsU
 
To learn more about Zimmetry Environmental and their building science, indoor environmental quality, compliance and consulting services, please visit www.zimmetry.com, call (787) 995.0005 or email info@zimmetry.com .
 
About Zimmetry Environmental
Since 2002, Zimmetry Environmental has been providing environmental consulting services to building owners and managers, architects, engineers, EHS professionals and Fortune 500 companies. The company is based in Puerto Rico and provides services across the Caribbean and Central America. The professionals at Zimmetry offer environmental compliance, indoor air quality, asbestos, lead-based paint, Phase I ESAs and general environmental consulting services.

 

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Paul Cochrane

President

Cochrane & Associates, LLC

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